Every weeknight, a group of nine boys gathers at the Zuud 26 Boxing Club for an evening filled with physical activity and personal growth. Under the guidance of club owner Kaden Lebray, these young participants engage in a routine that begins with running laps around the building before diving into rigorous gym exercises. This program provides a much-needed break from electronic devices, encouraging children to embrace physical fitness. As they step into the gym, Lebray fosters camaraderie through fist bumps accompanied by the mantra "Together," a word prominently displayed on the gym wall. The session includes sit-ups and push-ups, emphasizing both health and mental well-being, as highlighted by gym assistant Keyona Artis.
Kaden Lebray's vision extends beyond teaching boxing; it focuses on unity and discipline. After warming up, the boys don their gloves and headgear, energized by Lebray’s rallying cry of "Show time." Older participants like River Ford appreciate this call to action, understanding its role in shaping mindset. During training, younger members practice punches under supervision, gaining confidence and skills. For instance, Raysean Coburn, a student from Jones Elementary School, values how boxing enhances his discipline and agility while helping him manage emotions effectively.
Lebray, who stands tall at 6-foot-3, kneels on the mat during sessions to level the playing field with the young boxers. Each child takes turns throwing punches at their mentor, appreciating his gentle yet effective coaching style. Participants such as Kayden Wilder and Radley Sexton express admiration for Lebray, noting his influence extends beyond sports into aspects of character development and friendship. Despite being firm when necessary—such as addressing inappropriate language—Lebray remains beloved among the boys, many of whom lack paternal figures at home.
Beyond physical training, Lebray serves as a mentor and father figure, instilling values crucial for life outside the ring. His sparring sessions with older kids conclude each 45-minute class, offering thrilling experiences and further learning opportunities. Through this unique approach, Lebray not only teaches boxing but also nurtures well-rounded individuals ready to face challenges head-on. Encouraging parents to bring their sons to the Zuud 26 Boxing Club, Lebray emphasizes the transformative power of his program.
The Zuud 26 Boxing Club offers more than just exercise; it provides a supportive environment where boys can develop essential life skills. Under Lebray's leadership, these young athletes learn discipline, teamwork, and resilience. By combining structured workouts with meaningful mentorship, the club becomes a place where participants grow physically, mentally, and emotionally stronger. Ultimately, the program exemplifies how sports can inspire lasting positive change in young lives.