Asbury Park Police Department Officers & PAL Boxing Coaches held ‘Pop-Up’ registration events in the Asbury Park High School and at local businesses. Credit: Asbury Park Police Department

Looking to get into something new? The Asbury Park Police Department is now holding boxing classes near you. This program has been up and running since June 5, 2023, and is designed to provide a supportive and encouraging environment: “Youth will be instructed by Asbury Park Police Officers and Marine Corp Officers allowing them to enhance their physical strength and achieve their fitness goals through structured guided workouts and mutual encouragement.”

Who can be involved? The Police Athletic League (PAL) program holds three unique classes for youth in the community. The first class is for ages 8 through 11, the second class is for ages 12 through 16, and the third class is designed for participants who are 17 and older. The organization meets at 9 Main Street on the second floor in Asbury Park, above the offices of Asbury Park Public Works. A $30 fee is required to participate, which can be submitted by check or money order. The boxing classes will be coached by Hurbert ‘Hubbie’ Thompson and Terry ‘Fish’ Fisher, Monday through Friday.

The primary purpose of this program is for adolescents to come together and learn about boxing. Many may think that it is very important to learn how to protect yourself, and this program could save someone’s life. Alexander Mabe, a Parole Officer for Asbury Park, feels that this program could provide a safe environment for youth in the community. He said, “A large part of the program instills leadership skills and confidence in the youth and strives for them to be the best they can be.”

A large part of the program instills leadership skills and confidence in the youth and strives for them to be the best they can be.

Alexander Mabe
Gold Gloves awarded by the Police Athletic League Credit: Jean Michel

What can the students expect? Mabe explains that the outcome depends on the participant’s skill level. “Beginners can expect to learn the fundamentals of boxing accompanied by light cardiovascular exercise. Those with prior boxing experience will be allowed to learn from coaches with over 50 years of combined training and coaching.”

Overall, if you would like to try something new or improve existing boxing skills, this is the program for you.

For more information, please be sure to call 732-502-5767 or email [email protected].

Dae’Sani Clarke is a 19-year-old Asbury Park resident and a rising Junior studying Journalism at Monmouth University. She has been writing for the Outlook Newspaper for the past three years. Recently, she became President of Monmouth University’s Chapter of the The National Council of Black Women. The main thing Dae’Sani enjoys about reporting is getting to know people and their stories.She believes reporters have the ability to lift voices and offer a platform for people to be heard.

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