Boxing Champions Begin Here: The Yonkers PAL Legacy
At Yonkers PAL, boxing is more than a sport — it's a path to confidence, discipline, and opportunity. Our program has shaped the lives of many young people who went on to achieve greatness both in and out of the ring.
One of our earliest success stories is David Villar, who began his boxing journey at Yonkers PAL and made headlines in the 1989 Daily News as he competed for the Golden Gloves title in the 106-pound division. His dedication and skill earned him a place among New York’s rising stars in amateur boxing.
Another PAL icon is Luis “Luie” Hernandez, who moved to Yonkers as a child and discovered his passion for boxing at the Yonkers YMCA. Under the guidance of mentors, he went on to become a Junior Olympic Champion, five-time Hudson Valley Regional Champion, and a National PAL Champion in Ohio. By 1981, Luie had won three Golden Gloves titles, represented the USA Boxing Team internationally, and was honored with “Luis A. Hernandez Day” in the City of Yonkers on April 12, 1983. He later turned professional with a 3-0 record.
Their stories remind us that when we invest in our youth, we build champions — in the ring and in life.
Boxing Program
Discipline. Strength. Future Champions.
At Yonkers PAL, our Boxing Program goes beyond the ring. We use boxing as a tool to teach youth the values of discipline, self-respect, perseverance, and physical fitness. Designed for beginners and experienced boxers alike, our program offers structured training, mentoring from skilled coaches, and a supportive environment where young people can grow.
Participants not only learn boxing techniques and conditioning, but also build confidence, focus, and teamwork. Whether training for competition or simply looking to improve their health and self-esteem, every participant becomes part of the PAL family — and a champion in life.
Program Highlights:
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Open to youth ages
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Weekly training sessions
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Emphasis on discipline and goal-setting
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Guidance from certified boxing coaches
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Opportunities to compete and demonstrate skills
Join us in building stronger bodies, sharper minds, and brighter futures.
A Legacy of Champions: Yonkers PAL in Golden Gloves History
The Yonkers PAL Boxing Program has a proud legacy of producing skilled and disciplined athletes — including standout boxer David Villar, who rose through the PAL ranks to make a name for himself in the famed Golden Gloves tournaments.
As highlighted in a Daily News article from February 22, 1989, Villar began his boxing journey at Yonkers PAL and quickly gained recognition, eventually capturing the 106-pound novice class title. His performance drew citywide attention as he joined the ranks of elite fighters in the amateur boxing scene.
The article praised the energy and determination of novice boxers and acknowledged Yonkers PAL as a foundation for future champions. Villar's success is just one of many stories proving how this program builds not only strong athletes, but also confident young leaders.
