Freedom Park Boxing Gym helps neighborhood kids build confidence

MACON, Georgia ( 41NBC/WMGT ) – Macon-Bibb’s Freedom Park Boxing Gym is giving neighborhood kids the tools to succeed–and the man responsible says his technique to teaching the sport doesn’t stop at just learning the moves.

“Everybody use to tell me back when was trying to box I had a beautiful left jab.”

Gym Director James Hand is knocking out street violence in Macon neighborhoods blow by blow.

“We can’t help where we come from, but it’s our job to help them (kids) if we can. They come see us as a positive outlook,” he said.

For kids like Jalen Middleton boxing is sort of a refuge from the streets. Kids of all ages come in to learn the technique, but leave with much more.

“It really helped me become a better, stronger, more discipline person,” said Middleton.

The club is focused on building confidence and character in kids. But more importantly, Hand says it teaches perseverance–something they’ll need in life.

“Every time we box we can’t win all the time and truth be told life is not like that either. All of us have had some ups and some downs. It kind of helps you deal with the downs a little bit because sports build your character,” he said.

Middleton is ranked number two in the nation for his division, and has become quite the leader in his three years at the gym. But, he and Hand say they want to encourage more kids to get in the ring.

“We’ll help them everyday, keep them out of the streets, because we know that’s what most parents would want,” said Middleton.

Hand says life can be a big contender, but with the right training and guidance, any child can be a champion–and he’s dedicated to seeing their success no matter the circumstance.

“I didn’t have any kids of my own, but all of these kids are my kids and I take care of them and they see hope. I want to give them hope…that’s what I’m trying to do,” Hand added.

All the coaching, discipline and practice has paid off for Jalen Middleton who is headed off to the Junior Olympics next week.

As for the Freedom Park Gym, they’ll still be open Monday through Friday 10:00 A.M. to 8:00 P.M. training up the next big champs.