Drew Stauffacher has been appointed as the new brand president of 9Round Kickboxing Fitness, the largest kickboxing franchise in the world. Previously serving as the vice president of operations, Stauffacher brings over 13 years of experience with the brand. In his new role, he will focus on improving the member experience, enhancing franchise support, and driving innovation to keep 9Round at the forefront of the boutique fitness industry.
Founded in 2008 by professional kickboxer Shannon Hudson and his wife Heather, 9Round, headquartered in Greenville, South Carolina, has revolutionized kickboxing fitness, making it accessible to a wider audience.
With more than two decades of experience in the fitness sector, Stauffacher began his career as a certified personal trainer in a variety of settings, including big-box gyms, boutique studios, and clinical environments. He joined 9Round as a trainer in 2011, quickly advancing to a management role. By 2014, Stauffacher became a franchisee, purchasing his first 9Round studio. He expanded by acquiring a second studio in 2016. In 2020, Stauffacher and his wife relocated to Greenville, where he joined the 9Round Home Office. There, he played a key role in product development and led the creation of 9RoundNOW, a digital training platform launched during the pandemic that continues to add significant value for both members and franchisees.
“After spending years learning what it takes to succeed as a franchise owner, transitioning to the 9Round Home Office was an incredible opportunity,” Stauffacher said. “My experience as a franchisee helped me enhance the support we provide to franchisees, and I was able to apply my fitness knowledge to innovate through the pandemic’s challenges. Now, as I transition into executive leadership, I can combine my passion for fitness with my business expertise to give franchise owners the best support possible and ensure the brand remains a leader in innovation.”
Shannon Hudson, founder and CEO of Striking Brands, the parent company of 9Round, expressed confidence in Stauffacher’s leadership. “Our franchisees are in the best hands with Drew. He brings a fresh approach and deep knowledge of the company, having been a franchisee himself. This will elevate the brand and continue providing exceptional care for our franchisees and members,” Hudson said. “His leadership will allow me to focus on other areas of our business.”
In his new role, Hudson will concentrate on managing Striking Brands’ other ventures, including iLoveKickboxing, a leading kickboxing franchise acquired in 2024, as well as the company’s newly developed equipment division.
