REDDING, Calif. \u2014 A youth boxing program in Redding is working to change young lives by teaching participants how to handle challenges both inside and outside the ring.<\/p>\n
The Police Athletic League (PAL) Boxing Program operates under the nonprofit organization Raising Shasta and offers free boxing instruction for boys and girls in sixth through 12th grades.<\/p>\n
Shasta County Sheriff’s Detective Sgt. Jake Duncan, a Raising Shasta board member and former youth boxer in Redding, recently spoke about the program during a presentation to the Redding Rotary Club. <\/p>\n
Duncan said the program gives law enforcement an opportunity to positively influence young people before they become more deeply involved in crime.<\/p>\n
“The reality in our community is we see a lot of youths involved in crime, and that’s increasing,” Duncan said. “If we can interject ourselves and provide a positive influence to any kid and help change their future, then we’ve succeeded.”<\/p>\n
Duncan said officers often encounter young people during difficult periods in their lives and may not know the circumstances that led to their decisions. He said programs like PAL Boxing can offer an alternative path.<\/p>\n
Head coach Daniel Arzate said the gym provides a healthy outlet for participants to release frustration, build confidence and develop a more positive outlook.<\/p>\n
“They come in with whatever they’ve got going on,” Arzate said. “Then they leave with a smile on their face and are happy.”<\/p>\n
One participant, Louie Gutierrez, said the program has transformed his perspective. While he declined to discuss his past, he said boxing has helped him focus on the future.<\/p>\n
“This program really has changed me in so many ways,” Gutierrez said. “I think more positive. Everybody here is like family to me, especially my coaches.”<\/p>\n
Gutierrez said participants often arrive as strangers but quickly become part of a supportive community.<\/p>\n
The PAL Boxing Program is held at the Redding Teen Center on Churn Creek Road. While youth participation is free, adult boxing classes also are available for a fee.<\/p>\n
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