Mercer Times

Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin and New Jersey State Athletic Control Board (SACB) Commissioner Larry Hazzard, Sr. have announced that two Paterson boxing clubs will receive grant funding to run amateur boxing programs for youth in the city.

The after-school program is set to engage nearly two dozen youth, who will participate in three-hour sessions, three days a week at True Warriors Boxing and Fitness Club and Pound4Pound Fitness. The $65,000 grant covers one year of programming.

Participants will receive training in boxing and physical fitness, along with instruction on nutrition, wellness, and life skills. These initiatives follow similar successful programs in Atlantic City and Trenton aimed at providing safe spaces for youth after school.

“The benefits of this program extend beyond the walls of a boxing gym and into all aspects area of a youth’s life,” said Attorney General Platkin. “Boxing demands discipline, commitment, and self-confidence, and I’m pleased to bring this program to Paterson to support the city’s youth and their communities.”

State Athletic Control Board Commissioner Larry Hazzard, Sr., added: “The sport of boxing is all-encompassing and includes so much more than just improving physical fitness. Boxing creates mental fitness, helps emotional well-being, and teaches goal setting.”

The Paterson Police Department will coordinate the program under Lieutenant Sharon Easton from the Community Partnerships Bureau. Youth aged 11-18 who live in disadvantaged or high-crime neighborhoods are eligible to enroll. The program aims to provide healthy activities and mentorship during after-school hours.

Lieutenant Easton expressed her gratitude: “The grant will enable us to continue our mission of providing a positive and structured environment where young people can learn not only the art of boxing but also valuable life skills such as self-control, discipline, and mindfulness.” She added that these programs empower youth to develop confidence and become positive role models within their communities.

Participants are expected to benefit from increased physical fitness, better understanding of healthy eating habits, improved interpersonal skills, awareness of career options in various fields including law enforcement. Monthly workshops open to participants' families aim to benefit the wider community as well.

Additionally, regular interaction with boxing professionals, law enforcement officers, first responders is planned for participants. They will also learn about the business side of boxing by hosting an amateur exhibition event.

Academic success is another focus; participants must submit their report cards regularly while facilitators maintain contact with school personnel regarding any academic or behavioral issues.

Overall assessments will be conducted regularly to identify participants’ needs directing them towards necessary services aiming both at keeping adolescents out of criminal justice system reducing recidivism removing barriers between police personnel community youths.