Episode 4 - The Business of Sports Show - Martin Longden, Founder of Karuta Sportswear

The Business of Sports Show

Welcome to episode 4 of The Business of Sports Show, a show that looks at both sides of sports, from the on the field to the off field business. We have some fantastic guests lined up and we are kicking off episode 4 with Martin Longden, founder of Karuta Sportswear https://karuta-sportswear.com/
Our interview with Martin is a great follow on from episode 3 with Mike Denbee, as Martin used to be Mike's agent. As well as being an agent to some high level rugby starts, Martin's story starts as a talented youth footballer, being picked up by Exeter City and playing against the like of Gary Lineker, through to switching sports and playing for Bristol RFC, due to injuries his playing days were cut short and his career took a different path.
Leaving the world of being a sportsperson, Martin joined the RAF as a Physical Training Instructor, where he served for several years before another change of career, this time joining the Police Force.
During his time in the Police, Martin was a detective and a training officer for aspiring detectives. Martin had a varied career with one highlight being the ground commander for the Exeter bombing in which he managed and co-ordinated a covert and overt response. Whilst Martin was in the Police, he also acted as an agent to many rugby players, helping them to find clubs and taking them under his wing.
After serving in the Police Force for 26 years, Martin left and eventually decided to tackle the world of sportswear, that's when Karuta was born. Now a multi-award winning business and supplying sports clubs and organisations all over the UK, Martin and the Karuta team have built a brand and reputation many businesses would be envious of.
This episode could easily be a two parter, with so much to talk about from a varied career with lots of learning and passion for his work. We will no doubt welcome Martin back for a further episode to explore!