Athletic Programs
Wrestling
Established: 2025
Grades: 3-12
Location: Boys & Girls Club of Erie
Months: Year-round
Duration: Multiple days per week
Activities: Wrestling fundamentals, physical fitness
Eligibility: Students actively enrolled in PAL
The PAL wrestling program teaches students how to resolve conflicts and challenges in a controlled and respectful manner. On the mat, competitors face off in a physical struggle, but off the mat, sportsmanship and respect for opponents are fundamental values. Wrestlers learn to gracefully accept defeat, humbly celebrate victories, and treat opponents with dignity. These lessons in sportsmanship extend beyond the wrestling arena, guiding students in handling disagreements, respecting differences, and approaching conflicts with maturity and empathy. In this program, students learn physical fitness, discipline, mental toughness, resilience, goal setting, teamwork, camaraderie, conflict resolution, and character building.
Boxing
Established: 2025
Grades: 6-12
Location: Bizzarro’s Boxing Gym
Months: Year-round
Duration: Multiple days per week
Activities: Boxing fundamentals, endurance training, physical fitness
Eligibility: Referred by PAL officers
Boxing builds physical skills and instills discipline, confidence, and respect. In the PAL Boxing program, students will learn how to position themselves correctly and move efficiently, and practice basic punches with emphasis on form and technique. All students will understand the importance of safety gear and know the rules about sparring and hitting to minimize the risk of injury. Strength and conditioning are important parts of the program as are drills to practice techniques like shadow boxing, pad work, and working with a heavy bag. PAL officers work with student boxers to discuss the importance of mental toughness, focus, and strategy in boxing and encourage students to set personal goals and support them in their progress. Boxing can teach life lessons beyond just physical combat. This program is about building character and fostering a sense of community among students, where everyone is valued and respected.
