Gadsden County boxing coach teaches kids the ropes in and out of the ring
They look at me and say, 'Coach, why are you doing this?' And I tell them, 'I'm doing this to show you guys what's out there,' said Johnson. I'm trying to show them that there's more to life than playing video games and messing around. Johnson said he hopes that by helping the students learn how to be more disciplined and respect authority, they will have better lives when they're older. I don't want this to go away, he added. I want it to keep going on and on.
How did you get involved with coaching?
Growing up, I always loved boxing and was fortunate enough to be able to box competitively. When I became a coach, it was a natural transition for me. I love the sport and am happy to share my knowledge with other aspiring athletes.
How does your job as an English teacher fit into coaching at the amateur level?
I coach at the amateur level, which means I spend most of my time working with kids who are either not old enough to fight professionally or have decided that they don't want to pursue fighting as a professional career. As an English teacher, I teach kids about all aspects of life, from reading and writing to math and science. My coaching experience has helped me know how to better help my students succeed both inside and outside the classroom.
What makes a good boxer?
A boxer needs to have physical skills, such as strength and agility. They also need to have mental skills, like discipline. Finally, they need to have a competitive spirit.
What's so great about boxing?
Boxing is a great way to release aggression, but it's also a sport that teaches discipline, respect, and self-defense. The lessons that are learned both inside and outside the ring help to create well-rounded individuals who will be able to succeed no matter what they choose to do.
Who are some of your athletes this year?
This year, I have had a lot of athletes. One is an 11-year-old boy who has been boxing since he was six. He has won four state titles and is currently ranked second in Florida. Another athlete that I have trained is a teenage girl that was two years old when she started training with me. She has now won one state title, one regional title, and is ranked number eight in Florida for her age group. The youngest kid I train is nine years old.
What do you hope to see your fighters accomplish over their careers?
I want to see my fighters accomplish their goals and dreams. Whether that be becoming a world champion, or just being happy with their life. If I can help them achieve their goals, then I will feel like I've done my job as a coach.
Do you have any advice for aspiring fighters, coaches or people looking to start their own programs?
-Develop a plan for your future, so you have something to fall back on if boxing doesn't work out.
-Get an education so you have a marketable skill outside of boxing.
-Find mentors who will be invested in your success, not just with boxing but with your life.
-Don't let anyone discourage you from doing what you love and what God has put inside of you to do.
