Former world boxing champion Devon Alexander is using the sport that shaped his life to help St. Louis children get fit, build confidence and develop healthy habits.
Through his Devon Alexander Foundation, the St. Louis native introduces young people to recreational boxing, combining physical activity with lessons in discipline and self-control.
Boxing offers more than a workout for the arms. Footwork, punching drills and conditioning exercises can raise the heart rate while developing endurance, balance and coordination. Noncontact workouts allow children and adults to gain those fitness benefits without sparring or competing in the ring.
The foundation promotes physical fitness and personal development among children in underserved communities, according to its website.
Alexander grew up in a two-bedroom home with 13 siblings — eight sisters and five brothers — and began boxing at age 8 after school at Clay Elementary in St. Louis. He went on to become a world champion in two weight divisions.
“That first day at eight years old really became the rest of my life,” Alexander said.
Now 39, Alexander is introducing children to the sport that became his career, hoping they will gain some of the same confidence and discipline he developed through training.
Genita Edwards said she has noticed a change in her 8-year-old daughter, Isabella, since she began training with the foundation.
“The camp has affected her tremendously. Her confidence, she believes in herself more. Even the bullying she was receiving has stopped,” Edwards said.
Denale Powell, whose 6-year-old son, Devon, also participates in the program, said his son’s confidence and discipline are improving.
Alexander believes the confidence children develop through boxing can help them handle difficult situations outside the gym.
“I believe in the boxing concept when it comes to our youth. They feel empowered when walking away from arguments, without feeling like a punk or a coward,” Alexander said.
He has used his own money and resources to support his work with St. Louis children for the past three years.
For Alexander, helping young people discover the benefits of boxing is part of his responsibility as a champion.
“How can you call yourself a champion and are never around the people?” Alexander said. “You got to give it all back. If you are blessed like this, you have to serve.”