The St. Catharines Boxing Club is a busy place Saturdays from noon to 1 p.m.

Throughout the club, kids ages nine and older are taking part in the club’s free, non-contact boxing program for youth.

Anyone interested can just show up at the club. The club will take down contact information and you are ready to go.

“It’s show up and train,” boxing club coach Joe Corrigan said.

Kids should wear shorts, T-shirt and running shoes and bring a water bottle for hydration. Skipping ropes and gloves are provided.

Twelve-year-old Sofia Coppola is a big fan of the program.

“It always feels like a community here and that is what I like the most about it. When I come in it feels like a family. And Joe runs it. He gets you hyped up and excited about it.”

The program starts with four rounds of skipping followed by four rounds of shadow boxing and then four rounds on the bags.

Sofia has made several new friends at the club.

“At first, a few of the boys were hesitant to talk to me and stuff but it becomes a mutual respect and everyone talks to each other and gives each other advice.

Click here to read the full article on BP Sports Niagara.