Youth Boxing Program

The Youth Boxing Program, developed by Grand Prairie Police Department (GPPD) and funded through community and corporate donations, will provide a clean, safe and well-equipped environment for youth to train and prepare for competition. Experienced boxing coaches and police officers will be on hand to train participants. Academic tutoring will also be available through a mentor program in cooperation with the Grand Prairie Independent School District.

How to Apply

Both male and female youth ages 12 to 18 who live in Grand Prairie are invited to participate in the program located at the Charley Taylor Recreation Center.

To apply, come to the Charley Taylor Recreation Center, 601 E Grand Prairie Rd., between 4:30 and 6:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday. The applicant must bring ID and must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian who also has a legal ID.

Introduction for Participants

Boxing has a long and distinguished history and is a recognized Olympic sport. You are not here to learn how to fight – you are here to learn how to box. With the skills you develop, you will learn to overcome adversity and will become more self-confident. We will strive to help prepare you to compete in all areas of your life – from the boxing ring to your continued education to your role as a productive member of society.

What to Expect from Grand Prairie Youth Boxing

• A clean, safe, well-equipped training environment;
• Qualified and experienced coaches to help you develop as a boxer;
• The opportunity to test yourself, your skills and your abilities;
• Transportation to tournaments as necessary.

Police officers on staff at the gym will be available to help you, and if you have a question, please ask. Academic tutoring will also be offered to help students with schoolwork.

What We Expect from You

• You must behave in a dignified and professional manner in the gym.
• You must maintain yourself in the best physical condition possible. Before you enter the boxing program, you will begin the physical fitness program. Your skills and dedication during the physical fitness program will determine when you enter into the boxing program. When the coaches and officers in the gym see that you have demonstrated the proper dedication to the physical fitness portion of the program, you will be asked to join the boxing program.
• Once you become a member of the boxing program and begin to spar with others, you are required to register with USA Boxing. USA Boxing is the governing body that oversees and regulates all amateur boxing events in the United States. As a member, you are covered under USA Boxing for any injuries you may sustain during boxing events and competition. For you to compete, it is mandatory that you become a member. The cost is reasonable. Visit the USA Boxing website for details.
• You are expected, at minimum, to pass all of your classes in school. If you are having problems, contact the police officers assigned to the gym. Tutoring is available through a mentor program in cooperation with the GPISD. If you are not passing your classes or attending tutoring, you will be allowed to train and spar locally, but you will not be allowed to compete at tournaments.
• You must provide your own transportation to the gym.
• You must be drug and alcohol free. School behavior and attendance issues will be addressed. Any criminal charges will be addressed. Depending upon the nature of the offense, you may be removed from the program.