NORTH PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) — As a general rule of thumb, you can't talk about “Fight Club.”
But you can always talk about the Good Boys Club, which meets weekly at Legendary Boxing in North Providence.
“Good Boys Club is a mentoring-based program,” trainer Tessa Herbold says, “and it's something we're very passionate about.”
Boxing legend Michael McRae told 12News the Good Boys Club was created to empower kids to be the best version of themselves.
“It combines physical activity, mental fitness and a sense of teamwork,” McRae explained. “When we all come together in this gym, magic happens.”
Trainer Adonis Teixeira decided to get involved with the Good Boys Club to teach the next generation the importance of treating others with kindness, respect and dignity.
“Kids are learning how to get better mentally and physically,” Teixeira said. “Staying strong is an important part of life.”
Herbold said the Good Boys Club will be held Monday from 5 to 6 p.m.
“We're teaching the kids boxing skills while also building their self-confidence,” Herbold said. “It's a great way to give back to the community.”
“The kids really seem to enjoy it,” McRae added.
Herbold said the kids are mentored not only by adults but also by high school students like Teixeira.
“Times aren't getting any easier, and for kids to have that exposure to older mentors they can rely on … I think that's really important,” he said.
Legendary boxing owner Jarrod Tillinghast's goal is to eventually turn the Good Boys Club into a scholarship program for high school seniors.
“I have an opportunity to give these young kids something to fall back on,” Tillinghast said. “It's something I've always wanted to do.”
The latest session of the Good Boys Club will soon be wrapping up, but the next one will begin in the fall. For more information, contact Legendary Boxing at (401) 263-6600.
Herbold added that Legendary Boxing is always accepting donations because most kids don't have their own gloves or equipment.
Johnny Villella contributed to this report.
