Boxing club inspires students in Queens

QUEENS, N.Y. (PIX11) -- Some students at Atlas High School in Long Island City, Queens are learning lessons from the classroom and the ring. 

A new boxing club is offering training and a chance to sharpen their focus and concentration.

Mohammed, who is a senior, saw the poster for the new club at the beginning of the school year.  

“It’s given me a lot more confidence,” Mohammed said. 

Mike Figueroa is a boxer and a small business owner. He started South Speed Fitness and created a program for city schools as a vendor with the Department of Education. 

“We are impactful. It keeps us accountable,” Figueroa said as students worked out with bags and he coached students on their stance.  

The students have to maintain good grades, and tutoring is also available.

The space was created from an unused room on the second floor of the school. Students take turns at punching bags and rotate through workouts. 

Principal Elizabeth Messmann and staff look for ways to engage students. They also have a community closet that offers clothing and toiletries to students and families.

"We're looking at different ways for students to learn to become adaptable and resilient members of society and to develop lifelong habits of health," said the principal.

The coach also works with a high school in the Bronx.