Since the start of the Next Generation tournament trail several sponsors have stepped up to help ensure success. One that has been a stand out is the American College of Barbering (a Farouk Systems Barber and Styling School CHI). Owner Josh Fackler has announced that a $12,000 dollar scholarship will be awarded to a youth angler qualified and fishing the Next Generation Classic. The scholarship will cover tuition, book, and equipment. The American College of Barbering is accredited by the State of Kentucky Board of Barbering. The Fackler’s do have an impressive state of the art barbering and hair care facility with plans to expand another 10,000 square feet just three doors down from the current location. Fackler is CEO of the College that is now approved for financial aid as well as Stafford loans. The College reports graduation rates in excess of 85 percent. There are over ten barbering colleges across the State of Kentucky and Fackler’s college ranks among the top three. Depending on the time of year one tries to enroll, your wait could be six months to be placed in class. The waiting list is a testament of just how successful the college has become.  Qualified applicants that are registered for the NG classic in June 2012 and interested in applying for the scholarship should e-mail Josh Fackler at joshf3706@yahoo.com. Josh will arrange interviews prior to the tournament and announce the winner at the Classic.

 Josh Fackler is a USA BASSIN member and fishes the Renegade Twin Lakes division directed by John Newton. The Renegade division is how Josh met Next Generation National Tournament director Johnny Lancaster. Fackler wanted to know how he could help the tournament trail designed to springboard youth by tournament bass fishing for scholarship money. Fackler and Lancaster created a partnership to make the scholarship happen. In an online interview with Lancaster he said the following about Fackler…” Josh is really stepping up and helping out the Next Generation in a huge way. He has a passion for fishing and it is poring over into his passion for wanting to help out our youth anglers. He also has a passion for education and has the state of the art facility that will prepare a lucky Youth for a career that they can make a very good living with. I am glad to call him a partner with The Next Generation, but I am even more proud to call him a Friend.” Josh Fackler is constantly reaching out. Josh is also involved in the Comfort Zone Camp a nonprofit 501(c) 3 bereavement camp that transforms the lives of children who have experienced the death of a parent, sibling, or primary caregiver. Current chapters exist in California, New Jersey, Massachusetts and Virginia. Josh is working to develop a chapter of CZC in his home state of Kentucky.

Successful in both business and angling Josh is thankful for those who helped him achieve his success. Josh’s father never had the chance to teach him how to bass fish. Fackler’s father passed away when he was only four years old. His father was an avid angler in the Bass Bandits Club until his death in 1983. Fackler believes his passion for fishing is inspired because his dad fished. However, while he was dating (now wife) Cynthia he noticed a bass boat in his father-in-laws garage and told Cynthia, I’m going to have your father take me fishing. Josh’s father-in-law was none other than Bill Hurle Redman tournament series pro of the 80’s. Fackler has learned well and his success has earned him a sponsorship with Phoenix boats, Mercury Marine, Motor guide, Deka Marine Master Batteries, and Marine Master Trailers. Josh mentioned in an interview that his mother was a great inspiration to him. She provided support and taught him valued skill needed to be successful in life. From a young man to an adult Josh says his mother has taught him the importance of giving back to the community and always treating people as you would want to be treated. Josh’s mothers words have always been to him … It’s not where you’ve been that counts, but where you are going. Fackler said; “I live my life by that”.

Steven Hanson