A POSITIVE PLACE TO SHINE

The sport of boxing requires personal accountability, physical training, and the right conditions in which to learn. Owner Fernando Ontiveros started Diamond Hands Boxing Gym from his passion for the sport, and to fill a community need that would offer at-risk youth a positive place to shine. 

Diamond Hands Boxing Gyms are located in Othello, Ritzville, and Warden. Thanks to a small business investment grant through the Washington State Department of Commerce, Fernando has his sights set on expanding the gym space, increasing membership, and hiring a certified boxing coach in order to reach and serve more youth in the area. He works with kids from as young as eight years old, up to 17. Fernando has purchased new equipment and supplies, including competition and practice gloves, corner pads for the ring, heavy bags, and a large supply of single-use wraps, which are a significant business expense and crucial for training.

Fernando is undeniably proud of the young athletes. Currently there are seven competing boxers — who will soon travel to Spokane and Walla Walla for competitions — and ten in training. These youth also serve as mentors and role models for younger participants, and Fernando works to help them grow as assistants and future coaches. 

Congratulations to Fernando and Diamond Hands Boxing Gyms! We are grateful that the investment grant helps you keep up the great work engaging youth and providing them with a safe space to channel energy into healthy competition. Find Diamond Hands Boxing on Facebook.