South Garland High School senior, Alex Espinoza, was surprised to receive the keys to a vehicle that will make life easier when he starts Eastfield College. Alex has enjoyed much success as a boxer at the Garland Police Boxing Gym. He has been participating in the program for 10 years during which he has competed in national matches and become a Golden Gloves National Champion. Retired Lt. Dave Swavey, who runs the boxing gym, said that he has a good chance of qualifying for the 2024 Olympics.
Everyone in Alex’s family is somehow involved in boxing. His father is an assistant coach at the gym. In addition, his sister helps coach the girls and is currently training to become a paramedic. Alex’s brother also participates in the program.
A karate coach at the gym was recently given a vehicle and asked Swavey if he knew someone who could use it. Swavey immediately thought of the Espinoza family which includes five drivers who were sharing one car. Alex had recently gotten his driver’s license, so it was a perfect fit.
Swavey praised Alex as he presented the teen with the car keys. Also, he said that he could not think of anyone more deserving.
“This guy has been with us forever,” Swavey said. “He didn’t start out as a great boxer but he worked his tail off, moved through the processes and now has a couple of really nice titles. I, and all of my coaches think this is the person who should receive it [the car].”
Alex’s mom and dad were on-hand to share in the excitement. They are very proud of their son, who was surprised and grateful to receive such a great gift.
“I was shocked,” Alex said. “I’m still in shock right now. It’s crazy. It feels like just yesterday I was a little kid looking up to all these boxing people.”
Alex said that to compete in the Olympics, he must continue competing at the national level to get his ranking up. In addition, he then has to win the nationals to move on to the Olympic qualifiers, then win the qualifiers to box in the Olympics.
If a strong work ethic, hard work and dedication are what it takes to make it, there is no doubt that Alex will enjoy lots of success!
About:
The Garland Police Boxing Gym is an after-school boxing and karate program for at-risk youth. The program was started by now retired Lt. Dave Swavey and Officer Steve Martin in 1995. It began with six children and has grown to more than 100 kids per day.
Mission:
To provide a socially acceptable, after-school program for at-risk youth. Those children are lacking and searching for acceptance, companionship, recognition and the feeling of belonging in a safe setting.
Photos provided by Officer Matt Pesta, Garland PD