A Phoenix nonprofit boxing gym, Walt Hoskins Boxing, is on the hunt for a new location after a fire at a nearby recycling facility caused significant damage to their training space. Coach Mike Bojorquez emphasizes resilience, teaching his young athletes the importance of perseverance in the face of adversity.
Key Takeaways
- The gym suffered extensive damage due to a fire at a nearby facility.
- Coach Mike Bojorquez is committed to finding a new home for the gym.
- The nonprofit provides free boxing training to youth in underserved communities.
- Many young athletes have been affected by the gym’s temporary closure.
The Impact of the Fire
Last year, a fire broke out at a recycling and landfill facility adjacent to the Walt Hoskins Boxing gym. The aftermath left the gym severely flooded, covered in debris and soot, ultimately leading to its demolition. Coach Mike reflects on the incident, stating, "Life has its setbacks, and all you gotta do is keep pushing forward and don’t give up."
The loss was particularly hard for the community, as the gym offered free training to youth from underserved neighborhoods, providing them with a safe space to learn and grow.
Fundraising Efforts
In the wake of the fire, Coach Mike ramped up fundraising efforts to secure a new location. However, he faced challenges as rental prices for alternative gyms were significantly higher than what he previously paid. Despite these hurdles, he remains determined to find a suitable space for his athletes.
Temporary Relocation
Months after the fire, the owner of Big Bro Boxing Gym in Phoenix graciously opened his doors to the Walt Hoskins Boxing team. This temporary arrangement allowed some athletes to continue their training and compete in championships. However, the new location posed challenges, with about 20 kids unable to continue due to increased travel distances and fees.
Sierra, Coach Mike’s niece, shared her feelings about the situation: "It’s a little sad because some of the kids really did like boxing and some of the kids had a passion for it."
Looking Ahead
Despite the uncertainty surrounding their future, Coach Mike remains optimistic. He is committed to keeping the spirit of boxing alive in the community, stating, "We’re not done, so we’re still working on the agenda to keep boxing and keep kids off the streets."
His goal is to find a new location that can once again offer free training to youth in underserved communities, ensuring that the legacy of Walt Hoskins Boxing continues.
How to Help
While the search for a new gym continues, Coach Mike encourages community support through donations. The resilience of the Walt Hoskins Boxing team serves as a reminder that even in the face of adversity, the fight for a better future goes on.
Sources
- The Carpentries, The Carpentries.
- Phoenix nonprofit boxing coach still looking for new gym after fire, AZFamily.
