A Boxing Program Built on a Championship Legacy
CYC's boxing program is the cornerstone and oldest program at the center, and it is not a fitness class or a general activity period. Coach Gary Sullenger has led the program for 19 years, bringing more than 40 years of amateur and professional boxing experience including four professional world champions cornered. Coach Juan Arias has coached at CYC for 15 years and is a former WBC Latin Americas and NWBA champion himself. When your child trains here, they train under coaches who have produced champions at every level, starting at the fundamentals and progressing at their own pace with the option to advance as far as their dedication takes them.
Boxing Class Structure
CYC boxing welcomes all athletes, from first-time beginners to competitive fighters, and trains them in a supportive, team-oriented environment that emphasizes progress, safety, and respect. At every level, members are coached as a family, with coaching staff using film review, structured training, and individual feedback to identify opportunities for growth and help each athlete reach their full potential.
Beginner Level (Ages 3–8)
Beginners learn the fundamentals of boxing, from proper hand-wrapping and stance to rhythm, footwork, and combination drills. Workouts include stretching, warm-up games, and conditioning exercises such as jump rope, running, and bag work. Sparring is introduced only when the coach determines an individual athlete is ready, not on a fixed schedule.
Intermediate Level (Ages 9–13)
As athletes advance, intensity and precision increase. Training incorporates running, shadowboxing, mitt drills, partner work, and specialized bag training. Athletes develop defensive positioning, counter-punching, and tactical awareness while building stamina and focus.
Advanced and Competitive Training (Ages 13–18)
Upper-level athletes train for competition with advanced technique work, conditioning, and match preparation. Competitive boxers travel to matches throughout the year, supported by coaches who manage training plans and match strategy. This is the same development pathway that has produced professional world champions and Golden Glove, P.A.L., and Jr. Olympic champions at CYC.
Is Youth Boxing the Right Fit for Your Child?
It's normal to question whether boxing is safe or appropriate, especially when many programs feel intense or adult-focused. Families across Concord and Contra Costa County are often looking for structured environments where kids can build discipline without unnecessary risk. Community Youth Center offers youth boxing classes designed specifically for ages 3 through 18, with clear progression and coach-led guidance at every stage. From our Concord facility, families from Pleasant Hill, Walnut Creek, Martinez, Brentwood and surrounding areas find a program that prioritizes safety, confidence, and long-term development.
Meet the CYC Boxing Coaches
Together, Coach Sullenger and Coach Arias bring decades of experience, leadership, and championship credibility to every training session, continuing the legacy that defines the CYC Boxing Program.
Gary Sullenger, Head Coach
Coach Sullenger has led the CYC Boxing Program for 19 years and brings more than 40 years of amateur and professional boxing experience. He has cornered four professional world champions, one WBC Latin Americas champion, and three NWBA champions, as well as numerous Golden Glove, P.A.L., and Jr. Olympic champions.
Juan Arias, Coach
Coach Arias has coached at CYC for 15 years and brings 30 years of amateur and professional boxing experience. He is a former WBC Latin Americas champion and former NWBA champion, and continues to bring that competitive background directly into his coaching.
Why CYC Boxing Stands Apart
Coaching Depth No Local Gym Can Match
Most youth boxing programs in the East Bay are run by fitness trainers or recreational coaches. CYC's program is led by coaches with decades of professional and competitive experience who have developed world champions. The quality of instruction at every level reflects that background.
Safety-First Progression
Skills are introduced gradually with clear supervision at every level. Sparring is introduced only when a coach determines the athlete is ready, not on a fixed timeline or based on age alone.
Academic Component Included
Every CYC membership requires homework and tutoring time before sports participation. Combining athletics with Academic Excellence helps create better routines and long-term success for young athletes.
One Membership, Full Access
Boxing is included in CYC's all-access membership, giving families the option to pair it with wrestling, gymnastics, soccer, or any other program without additional fees.
Ready to Explore Youth Boxing for Your Child?
Many families reach a point where they want a structured, disciplined program that builds both confidence and skill. Community Youth Center provides that environment through consistent coaching and a clear development path.
What to Expect From Start to Finish
Getting started with youth boxing should feel safe, structured, and easy to follow. At Community Youth Center, each step is designed to build confidence while maintaining a strong focus on safety.
From the first session, your child is introduced to basic movements, stance, and coordination in a controlled setting. New students begin at the Beginner level regardless of age, progressing into Intermediate and Advanced training as skills and readiness develop. Coaches use film review and structured feedback to guide each athlete individually. Sparring is introduced only when coaching staff confirm readiness. Families gain a clear routine that supports both physical development and discipline, and can supplement training with academic support through the same membership.
Common Questions About Youth Boxing
Is boxing safe for kids at CYC?
Yes. Safety is built into every level of training, with structured supervision and progression based on readiness rather than pressure. Sparring is never introduced before a coach determines an athlete is ready.
What age can my child start boxing at CYC?
Children can begin as early as age 3, with age-appropriate training that focuses on coordination and fundamentals.
What do kids learn in beginner boxing classes?
Beginner classes cover hand-wrapping, stance, rhythm, footwork, and basic combinations alongside conditioning work including jump rope, running, and bag work.
Does CYC train competitive youth boxers?
Yes. As athletes develop through the Intermediate and Advanced levels, they can move into competitive training with access to match opportunities throughout the year.
Is there youth boxing near Pleasant Hill and Walnut Creek at CYC?
Yes. Families from Pleasant Hill and Walnut Creek regularly attend the Concord facility for youth boxing training.
Program Hours and Policies
Boxing sessions are offered throughout the week with training times available for multiple skill levels. Specific class times are listed in the current CYC Class Schedule.
To maintain a safe, structured environment, all members must be active CYC members with current registration and dues, follow all class attendance and conduct policies, wear appropriate training attire and gear at all times, and respect coaches, teammates, and opponents in every session. Members should participate only in classes suited to their current training level. New students must arrive 30 minutes before their first class until they have learned how to properly wrap their hands.
Build Confidence Through Structured Training
Families across Concord and the East Bay, including those from Pleasant Hill and Walnut Creek, choose Community Youth Center for youth boxing that focuses on development, safety, and consistency. With world-class coaching rooted in a championship tradition and a structured approach at every age level, kids gain skills that carry beyond the gym.
Donate to CYC
Your donation helps keep CYC programs affordable and accessible for every child in our community. Together, we can continue providing safe, structured spaces where youth grow stronger, smarter, and more confident.
