Game Changers - REACH Fitness Champion Ricky Marquez
- Jul 1
- 2 min read
Ricky Marquez wanted somewhere to go after school where he could try new things, push himself, and not be judged for being a beginner.
A friend encouraged him to join, so Ricky showed up, tried it out, and now he's one of the most enthusiastic participants in the program. He plays every sport, shares ideas for recreational activities, compliments teammates, and pulls others along with his energy.
"The coaches definitely help me out a lot and help make me more positive."
A good coach creates an environment that feels safe enough to take chances. That sense of safety - the confidence that you won't be mocked for struggling or trying something new, can be rare for young people. The freedom to attempt, fail, and try again without social consequence is foundational to development, and how young people discover what they're capable of.
"I feel more confident now. I can take risks with sports and working out without being judged. Boxing was really hard, but I stuck it out and got used to it. Now I look forward to it."
Ricky enrolled in REACH's boxing program alongside recreation. It wasn't easy at first, but with the space to learn without judgement, and coaches who recognized his accomplishments, he persevered.
"I have learned new workouts that I can do even at home that I never thought I'd be able to do, and my teammates are supportive, kind, and also help me stay on task."
Ricky came in with a friend in the program. Now he has a network of peers who reinforce positive choices by showing up alongside him.
"It gives kids a different choice after school, and that can help keep them safe."
Structured after-school programming with positive peers and trusted adults during after school hours is among the most evidence-based prevention strategies available. Ricky had gotten into a few fights before joining REACH. Not many, but enough to recognize that he needed somewhere to channel that energy constructively. Now he's more confident, more positive, physically stronger, and surrounded by people who bring out his best.
When young people are free to try new things without judgment, they push further, and discover capabilities they didn't know they had. For Ricky, that's changing his after-school hours, and expanding what he believes is possible for himself and his future.