Author: Youth Texas Teams

When you watch a boxing match, you often see the fighters in the ring, but what you don’t see is the pivotal role of the trainer in the fighter’s journey. Coach Derrick Hayes, a seasoned boxing trainer, has spent over 20 years preparing fighters for major tournaments, including the Texas Golden Gloves. He is the brain behind the success of Marcus Taylor, the 19-year-old champion from Houston.Coach Derrick’s days are long and demanding, as he balances training schedules, strategy development, and mental preparation for his athletes. “It’s not just about teaching them how to throw a punch; it’s about teaching…

At every junior golf tournament, players may get the glory, but there’s a behind-the-scenes team of volunteers who make the event run seamlessly. One of the most important yet often overlooked groups is the course marshals who help guide players, monitor pace of play, and maintain order on the greens.John Miller, a volunteer marshal at the Lone Star Junior Open in Austin, has been a part of the event for over five years. “I’ve seen a lot of talent come through this tournament, and my role is to ensure that everything flows smoothly,” John says. As a marshal, he’s responsible…

The Texas Golden Gloves Tournament may be known for its intense competition, but behind every punch and knockout is a team of dedicated event planners working tirelessly to ensure everything runs smoothly. From securing venues to coordinating with vendors, the event logistics team plays an essential role in the success of the tournament.Sarah Jenkins, the event coordinator for the Golden Gloves, is one of the unsung heroes behind the scenes. “Planning an event of this scale requires precision and attention to detail,” Sarah explains. “From organizing fighter schedules to ensuring that each match runs on time, there’s a lot of…

James Walker, an 18-year-old golfer from Fort Worth, is carving a path toward professional success. Known for his powerful drives and consistent accuracy, James has won numerous tournaments, including the prestigious Texas Junior Golf Invitational.James credits his growth to Coach David King, who introduced him to the strategic side of golf. “Coach King taught me that every hole is a puzzle,” James says. His standout performance came during the Invitational’s final round, where he birdied three consecutive holes to clinch the title.James is not just an athlete but also a community leader. He mentors younger players at his local club…

Seventeen-year-old Elena Chavez is proving that boxing is not just a sport for men. This Dallas native has become a force in the ring, capturing the Junior Featherweight State Championship and breaking barriers along the way.Elena’s journey began at a community center where she joined a self-defense class. She instantly fell in love with the sport. “I felt powerful for the first time,” she shares. Under the guidance of Coach Maria Lopez, Elena developed her signature blend of speed and strategy.Her crowning achievement came during this year’s Junior Featherweight Championship. Facing a taller opponent, Elena relied on her agility and…

Ryan Clarke, a 16-year-old goalie from San Antonio, is rewriting what it means to be an ice hockey star in Texas. Despite hailing from a state where hockey is less prominent, Ryan’s dedication and exceptional talent have made him a standout player.Ryan’s journey began at eight years old when his parents took him to a San Antonio Rampage game. Enthralled by the fast pace and physicality of hockey, he begged his parents to let him play. Under the mentorship of Coach Trent Watson, Ryan quickly grew from a wide-eyed beginner into one of the top goalies in the state.What sets…

Eighteen-year-old Marcus Taylor is setting the Texas boxing scene ablaze with his undeniable talent and unrelenting work ethic. Hailing from Houston, Marcus has quickly climbed the junior boxing ranks under the mentorship of Coach Jamal Benson, a seasoned trainer known for his strict yet supportive approach.Marcus discovered boxing at the age of 13 after struggling with confidence and focus in school. Encouraged by his older brother, he joined a local gym and instantly found his passion. “Boxing became my escape, but also my structure,”Marcus explains. By 15, he was competing in local matches, where his sharp jabs and impeccable footwork…

Alyssa Grant, a 19-year-old golfer from Austin, is turning heads not only for her skill but also for her environmental advocacy. Known for her powerful drives and consistent short game, Alyssa is using her platform to make golf more sustainable.Alyssa partnered with her coach to create the Green Golf Initiative, which promotes eco-friendly practices on the course. During her recent tournament, she introduced biodegradable tees, recycled golf balls, and solar-powered carts. “The sport I love shouldn’t harm the planet,” she says.Her efforts have caught the attention of national organizations, and she’s been invited to speak at environmental conferences. “Golf is…

Carlos Rivera, a 21-year-old lightweight from Dallas, isn’t just dominating the ring—he’s revolutionizing the way boxing handles mental health. After struggling with anxiety early in his career, Carlos became an advocate for mental wellness in combat sports.Carlos trains under Coach Elena Soto, who incorporates mindfulness exercises into his regimen. Together, they’ve crafted a program that balances rigorous physical training with mental health practices. “Boxing is as much a mental game as it is physical. You can’t succeed without a strong mind,” Carlos says.Beyond his personal journey, Carlos is making a broader impact. He regularly speaks at gyms, encouraging fighters to…

Michael Reed, an 18-year-old golf prodigy from San Antonio, is not just playing the game—he’s reshaping it. Known for his meticulous approach, Michael uses cutting-edge technology to analyze his swing, read greens, and even predict weather conditions that could impact his game.Michael’s journey began at age nine when his father introduced him to golf. Over the years, he developed a reputation as a perfectionist, spending countless hours on the range refining his technique. His efforts paid off during the Texas State Junior Championship, where he dominated the field with precision drives and flawless putting. “Golf is a game of details,…