PROGRAMS

Every Kid A Contender

Every child begins somewhere, and every child deserves the opportunity to grow. ADI's programs use boxing, mentorship, and positive youth development to help young people build confidence, discipline, resilience, and leadership both inside and outside the gym.

Programs are offered throughout the year during after-school hours, on select weekends, and through seasonal programming. Most ADI programs are offered at no cost to participants thanks to the generous support of our donors and community partners. Explore our program pathway below to learn how every kid can become a contender.

  • Mini Contenders (Ages 4-6)

    Every champion starts somewhere. Mini Contenders introduces our youngest athletes to movement, coordination, confidence, and fun through high-energy functional play that builds the physical and neurological foundations for future development. All instruction is strictly non-contact and designed to foster a love of learning and movement.

    ‍Mini Contenders is a fee-based program. Registration details and pricing will be available when enrollment reopens.

  • A trainer giving a boxing lesson after school to two young boys at a gym with punching bags and other training equipment.

    Junior Contenders (Ages 7-14)

    Every contender begins here. Junior Contenders is the foundation of the ADI program, where participants develop proper body mechanics, boxing fundamentals, discipline, and confidence. The focus is on mastering the "how" of movement while building the character and habits that prepare young people for continued growth.

    All participants begin at this level and remain here until they demonstrate readiness for Rising Contender or Elite Contender placement during a Saturday Grind evaluation.

  • Young person in hoodie

    Rising Contenders (Ages 7-14)

    Rising Contenders have built a strong foundation in mechanics, discipline, and emotional regulation. At this stage, participants begin applying their skills through light technical drills, increased decision-making, and more advanced instruction while continuing to grow as confident, respectful leaders inside and outside the gym.

    Note: Placement in Rising Contenders requires evaluation and approval by an ADI coach. If you are new to ADI and have not yet been evaluated, you'll begin by attending a Saturday Grind.

  • Elite Contenders (Ages 15-24 or by Evaluation)

    Elite Contenders are challenged to think strategically, solve problems under pressure, and lead by example. Participants continue developing advanced boxing skills while strengthening leadership, resilience, and self-discipline. Athletes who demonstrate the appropriate skill level and readiness may participate in supervised sparring under the guidance of ADI coaches.

    Note: Participants under age 15 may only enter this level after evaluation and approval by an ADI coach. Participants who wish to spar must show proof of a USA Boxing Athlete Membership.

  • Personal Training

    Receive individualized, one-on-one coaching from an ADI trainer tailored to your goals and experience level. Whether you're looking to improve boxing technique, build fitness, or accelerate your development as a contender, personal training provides focused instruction designed to help you reach your full potential.

Interested in joining ADI?

Thank you for your interest in our programs! Registration is currently paused as we prepare for our next enrollment period. Please check back soon for updates on future registration opportunities. We look forward to welcoming new contenders to the ADI family.

More Information for Families

Boxers and their families are invited to join us every Saturday from 12:00-2:00 pm for community activities centered around boxing. Monthly schedules are distributed via e-mail to registered students with active ProCare accounts.

1

What is the Saturday Grind?

How do I get into Rising or Elite Contenders?

2

Get examined by one of our coaches at Maleek Jackson Boxing Gym (926 N. 2nd St.) during a Saturday Grind.

Check your e-mail— we send information to the account listed on your registration. Be sure to also activate your ProCare account and download the app.

3

I registered— how do we start?

How do I get a USA Boxing Membership?

4

Every Elite Contender must have an active USA Boxing Membership- Athlete Level. The cost ranges from $68 (for ages 8-10) to $78 (for ages 17-20). Click here to buy yours.

How We Keep Our Programs Free

While our programs are free for families, they are not free to run:

  • After-School costs us $160 per child, per month.

  • Summer Camp costs us $500 per child, per week.

To cover these costs and eliminate fees for our families, we rely on generous support. You can join this effort! Please click here to offer your support and help us keep our doors open for Philadelphia's youth.