When Gary Hillman heard from Earl Jacobsen, his former industrial technology teacher, that the local sports store was up for sale, Hillman saw his golden opportunity.

Tuesday, April 03, 2001

When Gary Hillman heard from Earl Jacobsen, his former industrial technology teacher, that the local sports store was up for sale, Hillman saw his golden opportunity. He jumped.

On Dec. 2, 1982, Hillman and his wife Marilyn became partners of what is now called Tiger City Sports in downtown Albert Lea.

His previous experience as a manager at Stevens Window and Hardware was a great benefit in his new venture, he said.

&uot;I have to credit my wife,&uot; he said, explaining that in the early years she put in at least as many hours as he did. &uot;We’ve been busy ever since.&uot;

Nineteen years later, he has just found himself in a new location with more space than he’s used to – three times as much.

He loves the added area. Hillman said he can now display more products than ever before and has ample room for his embroidery, silk screening, trophy-making and repair services.

&uot;Because of the services, I have to put in a lot of extra hours,&uot; he said. &uot;Last year I probably averaged about 70 hours a week.&uot;

Besides these hours, Hillman runs his three kids around to their hockey games. With games being held all year round and all over the region, he said he and his wife go to almost 80 games each year.

&uot;I didn’t get on my boat more than three times last year,&uot; he said.

Even with all the hard work and long hours, though, he said he loves his job. He’s had the store much longer than any other owner.

&uot;I’ve always just enjoyed the people.&uot;