From the Ring to the Gym: Surfside Beach Boxer Transforms Lives Through Coaching

In a remarkable journey, former professional boxer Curtis "The Trap" Morton has traded his gloves for the role of a transformative coach, inspiring a new generation of young athletes in Surfside Beach, South Carolina. After retiring from the ring in 2018, Morton has found a new calling, using his expertise and passion to empower and uplift the lives of aspiring boxers.

Empowering the Next Generation of Champions

Giving Back to the Sport That Shaped Him

Curtis Morton's path to coaching was not a planned one, but rather a natural progression of his lifelong love for the sport of boxing. After years of honing his skills in the ring, Morton realized that his true calling lay in passing on his knowledge and experience to the next generation of athletes. "It feels like I'm giving back," he reflects. "I've never dreamt of doing that, but I remember seeing coaches who told me that once you stop boxing, it will never leave you, and that was right. It never left. I'm always going to be part of it, and seeing these kids come up, it makes my heart tingle."

Building Confidence and Character

At his EYK Boxing gym in Surfside Beach, Morton has been working tirelessly to instill not only boxing skills but also confidence and character in his young students. "I've definitely seen that," he says. "The things that we've worked on inside the gym, actually seeing them do in competition, so that makes me proud to see that they're actually learning." Morton's students, each with their own unique "tough boxing names," exude a determination and self-assurance that extends far beyond the confines of the ring.

A Team Bound by Camaraderie and Respect

The bond between Morton and his students is palpable, a testament to the coach's unwavering commitment to their growth and development. "He's our favorite coach," says 15-year-old Braelen Marlow, aka "showtime." "He taught us everything he knew. He's a professional boxer and taught us everything he knew." This sense of camaraderie and respect is further reinforced by the team's approach to competitions, where they often travel together, supporting and motivating one another every step of the way.

Instilling Discipline and Life Lessons

Beyond the physical training, Morton's coaching philosophy extends to instilling valuable life lessons in his students. "They also know how to stand up for themselves, and I always tell them to respect their craft," he says. This emphasis on discipline, respect, and self-advocacy is a testament to Morton's holistic approach to coaching, where he aims to empower his students not only as athletes but as well-rounded individuals.

Witnessing the Transformation

The impact of Morton's coaching is evident in the growth and achievements of his students. Whether it's witnessing their success in out-of-state competitions or observing their unwavering determination in the ring, the coach's pride and joy are palpable. "Sometimes I want to cry," he admits. "When you see their expressions when they yell and jump up and down. They accomplished something; it makes me feel good inside."From the ring to the gym, Curtis "The Trap" Morton's journey has come full circle, and in the process, he has become a beacon of inspiration for the young athletes he coaches. By sharing his expertise, instilling confidence, and fostering a sense of camaraderie, Morton is not only shaping the next generation of boxers but also transforming lives, one punch at a time.