The Central City Boxing & Barbell Inc. gym on Berkshire Avenue in Springfield is making waves in the community by enforcing a unique policy: youth members must meet academic standards to participate. Owner and coach Dean Fay has made it clear that those who fail to meet the academic minimum will be banned without any second chances. This commitment reflects Fay’s dedication not only to boxing but also to the personal development of the young fighters.
The gym is set to host the Western New England Golden Gloves tournament, commencing this Saturday. This four-week boxing event will serve as a critical fundraiser for the nonprofit gym, with all ticket sales directed toward supporting the fighters’ journeys, including funding uniforms, airfare, and meals for winners progressing to the regional rounds.
Fay, who retired from the Springfield Police Department, sees boxing as an opportunity for growth, especially for teens from troubled backgrounds. “It’s how you deal with bad days that determines whether you’re gonna be a winner or a loser,” he expressed, emphasizing the resilience he aims to instill in his fighters.
The tournament, which spans four consecutive Saturdays, will feature both amateur boxers ages 18 and up and a junior tournament for youth ages 8 to 17. The event is staffed by volunteers and does not require an entrance fee for the boxers, making it accessible for all participants.
Dr. Martin Lesser, a long-standing volunteer ringside physician, highlighted boxing’s appeal as an outlet for underprivileged youth, many of whom come from working-class immigrant families. Fay estimated that approximately half of the boxers are in the state Department of Children and Families system, often facing familial challenges. Yet, when these young athletes start achieving victories, it can bring their families together, with fathers showing up to support them.
The safety of amateur boxing was reinforced by Dr. Andrew Levin, also a ringside physician, who pointed out that safety measures, such as mandatory mouthguards and headgear, help prevent serious injuries. He noted that compared to contact sports like football, boxing tends to result in fewer severe injuries.
Located not far from Springfield Central High School, the Golden Gloves tournament is part of a broader outreach to the local community, which includes an after-school tutoring program. Fay ensures that students maintain their academic performance, with less than satisfactory grades leading to mandatory tutoring sessions.
Fay’s strict approach stems from his background in the Army, as well as his tenure in the Springfield Police Department, where he has witnessed the consequences of high-risk lifestyles among youth. His resolve to open the gym was, in part, inspired by the need to provide a constructive environment for young people.
Dr. Lesser has encouraged community members to come out and support the local event, underlining its importance. “Everyone seems to wanna see a boxing match once, and here it is, local,” he stated, inviting all to enjoy an evening of amateur boxing for a good cause.
For more information on tickets or sponsorship opportunities, interested individuals can visit centralcitygym.com. The return of the Golden Gloves tournament serves as a testament to the positive impact of sports and community support in shaping the lives of young people in Springfield.