The Malden Teen Enrichment Center (MTEC) has always been where people can pass the time and unwind with friends. Nowadays, having fun almost always involves spending money, whether shopping or visiting an amusement park. The teen center offers a space where you can enjoy it all for the incredible price of nothing. Most Malden High students know the teen center provides free games and food after school; however, it also hosts a variety of classes to cater to diverse interests, with one recent addition being its boxing classes.
For beginners, the coach, Jay Ortiz, reviews the four basic punches: the jab, cross, hook, and uppercut. Once they grasp the fundamentals, Ortiz will perform a sequence of punches that the rest of the class must follow; this practice is known as shadow boxing.
Shadowboxing is the act of boxing with an imaginary opponent. The purpose may differ, but it mainly fits into three categories: strength, speed, and, most importantly, technique. Depending on the goal, some choose to shadow box with weights for added resistance.
Ortiz will typically continue to display combinations, yet this time, they are executed on the heavy bag. These drills emphasize footwork and precision, applying various techniques to prepare them for the ring. Students then engage in partner work, transferring what they have learned from the heavy bag to each other. One person initiates while the other defends. The goal is not to hurt each other but to test what they have learned against a moving target. These drills are conducted back and forth so that both participants can experience offensive and defensive roles.
“Training in boxing, or any martial art for that matter, takes a lot of self-discipline. There is a lot of teamwork that is needed, a lot of camaraderie, but it is very much internal when it comes to what you can learn, and that is one of the best things to go through, especially as a kid,” expressed Ortiz.
After warming up, there is free time to return to previous exercises or work one-on-one with Ortiz on the mitts. However, you are also free to do the most effective drill: sparring.
Sparring is a practice match in which participants wear headgear and boxing gloves. It is often conducted lightly to simulate a match closely, allowing you to showcase everything you have learned in the ring without risking serious injury. Sparring is typical even among wild animals, who may play to simulate a hunt.
“You build a relationship, not only with the sport but with certain people you never thought you would build a relationship with,” explained Malden High junior Kenny Turcios.
If you are willing to try a new hobby and even take a few punches, come on down to the MTEC. Classes are generally held from 5:30 to 7:00 PM on Wednesdays and Fridays. For more information, check out their Instagram page: @maldenteencenter.
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