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$130K Awarded to Expand Youth Boxing Programs in Trenton and Atlantic City
Attorney General Platkin Announces New Round of Funding for Ike Williams Boxing Academy and AC PAL Boxing Initiative; Grants to Provide Fitness, Mentoring, Career Development, and Life Skills to At-Risk Youth
NEW JERSEY – Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin and New Jersey State Athletic Control Board (SACB) Commissioner Larry Hazzard Sr. have announced $130,000 in new grants for two youth boxing initiatives—a $65,000 award to the Ike Williams Boxing Academy in Trenton and a $65,000 grant to the Atlantic City Police Athletic League (AC PAL). Both programs aim to provide safe, structured after-school environments where teens and preteens can learn boxing, fitness, nutrition, life skills, and, in some cases, law enforcement career options.
“The Ike Williams program was selected after several Trenton police officers, former Department of Corrections officers, and firefighters committed to participating in this program, offering the potential for positive interactions between young participants and first responders in a non-threatening environment, which could go far in changing preconceptions, strengthening police-community relations, and improving public safety in the city of Trenton,” said State Athletic Control Board Commissioner Larry Hazzard, Sr.
Trenton: Ike Williams Boxing Academy
Yearlong Program for 20 Youth: Building on a pilot launched last year, the Ike Williams Boxing Academy expects to serve around 20 participants, ages 11 to 18, who will attend three-hour sessions on three days per week.
Holistic Training: In addition to learning boxing fundamentals, youth receive nutrition and wellness instruction along with monthly workshops and field trips aimed at improving life skills—including interpersonal communication, responsible decision-making, and conflict resolution.
Strong Community Engagement: Workshops are open to participants’ family members and local residents, fostering broader community benefits. Youth also interact regularly with first responders to better understand law enforcement work and possible career paths.
Academic Support: Each student is required to submit a report card. The program facilitator keeps in contact with school personnel to ensure academic progress and to address any behavior or classwork issues that may arise.
Positive Impact: Organizers expect to keep teens away from criminal activities and prevent recidivism among those already in contact with the juvenile justice system. Participants can also enhance fitness, learn healthy eating habits, and explore new career opportunities.
Atlantic City: AC PAL Youth Boxing Program
After-School Boxing Revival: With support from a previous Attorney General’s grant, AC PAL began an after-school boxing program in July 2019, only to have it disrupted by COVID-19. The new $65,000 infusion will enable the program to re-launch and operate for a full year.
20 Participants: AC PAL expects to engage local youth, ages 11 to 18, referred by schools, community organizations, or the local judicial system.
Daily Activities: The program runs from 3:00 to 6:30 p.m. on weekdays and 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Saturdays, offering boxing instruction, athletic conditioning, and mentorship in a safe and positive environment.
Life Skills & Event Hosting: Participants receive career development workshops, practice running amateur boxing exhibitions, and gain an understanding of the business side of boxing, from promotion to event coordination. The ultimate goal is to build self-esteem, foster strong social skills, and guide students toward long-term success in or out of athletics.
Common Goals
Both programs aim to enroll participants aged 11 to 18 from disadvantaged and high-crime communities. By engaging them in physical fitness, mentorship, and educational workshops, the initiatives provide a healthy alternative to risky behaviors, particularly during after-school hours when youth may otherwise lack constructive options.
“These programs transcend boxing and can have an impact far beyond the ring,” said Attorney General Platkin. “The participants learn how to interact with others and explore an array of potential career paths, while developing and maintaining physical fitness through sports and healthy eating habits. The opportunities that are made available to participants give them a chance to better their own futures.”
Commissioner Larry Hazzard Sr. added that the programs build “confidence and accountability” in participants, noting that the SACB is committed to supporting local communities through youth sports initiatives.
The renewed $130,000 in grants will bolster the capacity of both the Ike Williams Boxing Academy in Trenton and the Atlantic City Police Athletic League’s boxing program. These funds ensure that local youths receive fitness instruction, mentoring, and life-skill training—potentially paving the way for success, both in and out of the ring.
