Success Stories
Kevin Walsh,32
Kevin is a testament to the transformative power of boxing. He discovered the sport at 23, seeking an outlet to keep himself busy after losing his father at 18, a loss that became his greatest motivation to make his dad proud. Now with 11 years in the ring, Kevin credits boxing with saving his life, steering him away from a path that could have ended in tragedy. Discipline, is the cornerstone of his success. "Without discipline, you’ve got nothing," he emphasizes. With an undefeated professional record of 15-0, including 8 knockouts. As he prepares for his next fight on February 15, he continues to inspire others, proving that with determination and discipline, even the darkest struggles can lead to greatness.
Danny Moyniham, 15
Danny Moynihan, 15, has found a new sense of purpose and direction through boxing. In just 10 months, the sport has become more than a pastime—it’s a lifeline. Without boxing, Danny believes he’d be running with the wrong crowd and getting into trouble. But now, stepping into the ring and putting in the work has become his therapy, giving him a place to focus his energy and grow stronger every day. For Danny, the gym is more than a physical space; it’s where he feels whole and at his best. His journey is proof that it’s never too early to choose a better path and commit to something that brings out the best in you.
Tim James,44
Tim James (Right) has been boxing for 11 years and thrives on the "you vs. you" mentality that makes the sport so empowering. Known for bringing good vibes and fostering a sense of community, Tim believes there's no room for ego in the gym. Whether you're a seasoned fighter or just starting out, his passion for helping others grow makes him a true inspiration in and out of the ring.
Mikey Smith,20
Mikey stepped into the boxing gym just over a year ago, weighing 300 pounds and looking for a change. Today, at 173 pounds, he’s stronger, more confident, and ready to make his amateur debut in April. Growing up, he faced bullying, but boxing taught him how to defend himself, not just physically but mentally. The discipline, the drive, and the support of the gym have kept him motivated long after high school. Now, every round he fights is a testament to his transformation, proving that with hard work and heart, anything is possible.
Bill Sproules
Bill Sproules is a dedicated educator at the Re-Engagement Center and a passionate boxing coach whose journey in the sport began at 40. Boxing changed his life, instilling in him the confidence and humility that he now passes on to others. After a year of training and two exhibition fights, he naturally transitioned into coaching, launching school boxing programs in 2011 that continue to impact students today. Bill believes in meeting people where they are, regardless of athletic ability, and fostering the brotherhood that the boxing gym provides. He has worked with talented fighters like pro boxer Kevin Walsh and Southern New England Golden Gloves winner Angel Laboy, but for him, the true reward is being part of each boxer's journey, helping them grow not just in the ring, but in life. As both a coach and an educator, he understands that boxing is bigger than just the sport. It's about resilience, discipline, and the power of believing in yourself.
Angel Laboy,19
Angel knows that without boxing, his life could have taken a very different path, one that might have led to trouble or even dropping out. But through his dedication to the sport, he has gained not only a deep respect for boxing but also for himself. At Cappiello’s Boxing Gym, he found a supportive, judgment-free community that pushed him to give his best and never settle for less. The discipline and focus he’s developed in the gym have been life-changing, shaping him into a stronger fighter and a more determined person. With a 6-2 amateur record, Angel’s hard work recently paid off in a big way. He was crowned the New England Golden Gloves champion in the 154-pound division. Boxing has given him a new direction, proving that commitment and perseverance can transform life both inside and outside the ring.
Jose Perez,17
Jose Perez, a senior at BHS with 3 years of boxing experience, credits the sport with teaching him hard work, self-defense, and discipline. Boxing has empowered him to walk through life with confidence and continually level up. It’s not just a sport to Jose, it’s a way of life that drives his success and motivates him to always get better.
Jason Kelley-Salgado,16
Jason Kelley started boxing just 8 months ago, and in that short time, he’s transformed his life, losing over 50 pounds and gaining invaluable lessons in self-defense, self-discipline, and confidence. He admits that if it wasn’t for boxing, he’d probably be in the streets and getting into trouble. Instead, the sport has given him focus, purpose, and a positive outlet, proving that boxing has the power to change lives and inspire growth both inside and outside the ring.
Leo Xique,16
Junior at BHS, has been boxing for 2 and a half years. Throughout his journey in the sport, he’s learned the true meaning of discipline and hard work. These lessons have not only made him stronger physically but have also empowered him to tackle challenges in other areas of his life. His work ethic, sharpened in the ring, has translated into improved grades and a renewed focus on his studies. Boxing has kept him driven, busy, and constantly growing, proving that the discipline gained from sports can unlock potential far beyond the gym. Leo’s story is a testament to the power of boxing—building character, fostering resilience, and inspiring success.
Ryan Guinta,40
Ryan has been in the ring nearly his entire life. He started boxing at just 4 years old and found his home at Cappiello’s by 10. Growing up, boxing gave him the structure he needed to stay off the streets and out of trouble. He played other sports, but nothing compared to the love he had for boxing—the discipline, the grind, and the lessons it taught him. Now a coach at Cappiello’s, he’s dedicated to passing that knowledge on to the next generation. He believes boxing is more than a sport—it’s therapy, a way to push through life’s toughest moments, and a lifelong passion that continues to shape him every day.
Antonie Wilks,44
Antoine Wilks has 20 years of boxing experience, with titles including New England Golden Gloves Champion and two-time Southern New England Champion. Starting his boxing journey at 21, Antonie credits the sport with keeping him off the streets and teaching him invaluable lessons in structure, discipline, and resilience. Now a coach at Cappiello's Boxing Gym, he channels his passion into mentoring others, using his story and expertise to inspire the next generation of fighters to overcome challenges and achieve greatness.
Will Longwe,28
Will has been boxing for 2 years, pushing himself to grow every day. He understands that boxing is about challenging himself, staying focused, and being accountable for his progress. With 9 amateur bouts under his belt, Will knows that hard work and dedication are the keys to success, and he’s committed to becoming better with every round.
Alex "Bulldog" Centers,21
Alex “Bulldog” Centers has been boxing for about a year, starting his journey at 320 pounds. Through hard work, dedication, and a relentless spirit, he’s shed over 100 pounds and transformed his life. He competed in the Rocky Marciano tournament this year and won his first ever match. Alex embodies the true grit and determination of a fighter, proving that anything is possible with the right mindset and effort.
Tristan James,11
Tristran James has been boxing for 5 years and loves the challenge of learning new combos and working hard. Boxing has not only given him a sense of security but also boosted his confidence in school and beyond. Working with Antonie and being part of such a positive environment keeps him motivated to grow stronger every day.
Kirk Wilmot,40
Kirk knows firsthand how boxing can change a life. At 19, he started with MMA, jiu-jitsu, and Muay Thai, but it was boxing—where he trained at Cappiello’s—that truly gave him purpose. With over 10 amateur fights and only one loss, he went on to become a 2-0 professional. Looking back, he knows that without boxing, he could have ended up dead or in jail. The sport gave him discipline, direction, and the tools to handle life’s pressures. Now, after 20 years in the game, what keeps him going isn’t just the fight—it’s watching young fighters grow, transform, and turn their struggles into strength, just like he did.
Jeammy Moise,19
Jeammy found his purpose in boxing when he started at just 14 years old. Seeking confidence and the ability to defend himself, he quickly realized that boxing was more than just a skill—it was a way to transform his mindset. Through the sport, he shed the habits of laziness, built his strongest cardio, and discovered an unbreakable sense of community. Surrounded by like-minded individuals who push each other to be better, Jeammy found the accountability and brotherhood he never knew he needed. In 2023, when he faced one of the toughest mental battles of his life, boxing was his way out, reigniting his focus and determination.
