About Peninsula Boxing Academy | Newport News, VA

Building Champions in the Ring and in Life

At Peninsula Boxing Academy, we believe true success extends far beyond boxing. Our academy was founded with the vision of creating a positive, structured environment where students can develop athletic ability, academic responsibility, leadership skills, and the confidence needed to succeed throughout life.

Our goal has always remained the same: to provide every student with the tools, opportunities, and encouragement necessary to reach their fullest potential.

Our Mission

The purpose of Peninsula Boxing Academy is to help every student excel through a combination of boxing instruction, education, leadership development, and positive mentorship.

We believe boxing is an effective vehicle for teaching life skills that cannot always be learned in a classroom. Through consistent training, students learn the importance of commitment, accountability, self-control, and respect for others.

Our mission is not simply to create better athletes—it is to help develop responsible young adults and confident individuals prepared for success in every aspect of life.

A Commitment to Academic Success

One of the qualities that makes Peninsula Boxing Academy unique is our commitment to education.

Youth are welcomed into the program regardless of their current academic performance because we believe every child deserves the opportunity to succeed. Once enrolled, students are encouraged to improve their lowest grades while maintaining or increasing their overall grade point average. Participants commit to working toward academic improvement while enjoying the many benefits of boxing training.

When additional support is needed, students may receive tutoring in subjects such as mathematics, reading, or other academic areas based on their individual needs. By combining athletic training with educational encouragement, we help young people build habits that contribute to long-term success.

Professional Boxing Instruction for Every Stage

Whether you're stepping into a boxing gym for the very first time or preparing for amateur competition, Peninsula Boxing Academy offers programs designed to help you continue progressing.

Every class emphasizes proper technique, conditioning, defensive skills, footwork, discipline, and sportsmanship while providing a safe and encouraging learning environment.

Meet Master Otis M. Hooper

Peninsula Boxing Academy is led by Executive Director Master Otis M. Hooper, an accomplished martial artist, professional boxer, educator, and community leader whose decades of experience continue to inspire students of all ages.

A 6th Degree Black Belt in Tae Kwon Do, Master Hooper competed professionally in karate before entering the professional boxing ring as a Junior Welterweight. During his boxing career, he served as a sparring partner for former World Welterweight Champion Sugar Ray Leonard, gaining invaluable experience at the highest levels of the sport.

Throughout his career, Master Hooper has also worked alongside notable figures including Bruce Lee, Muhammad Ali, columnist Jack Anderson, and numerous United States Senators and members of Congress. His accomplishments as an instructor speak for themselves.

Over the years, he has trained numerous successful martial artists and champions, including World Champions John Chung, Helen Chung, and Master Charlie Lee.

Beyond the gym, Master Hooper has remained committed to serving the community through educational initiatives, self-protection programs, youth mentorship, and leadership roles with several respected organizations. His lifelong dedication to helping others continues to shape the culture and philosophy of Peninsula Boxing Academy.

More Than Boxing

At Peninsula Boxing Academy, students gain much more than athletic ability.

Our coaches work to ensure every student feels challenged, supported, and encouraged throughout their journey.

Whether your goal is becoming a competitive boxer, improving your fitness, or helping your child develop confidence and positive life skills, you'll find a welcoming community committed to your success.

Licensed and Community Focused

Peninsula Boxing Academy proudly follows the principles of USA Amateur Boxing while maintaining a strong commitment to serving the Newport News community.

For years, our academy has provided young people with a positive alternative by offering structured training, mentorship, and opportunities for personal growth. We believe every student deserves the chance to discover their potential regardless of experience, background, or current skill level.

Our commitment to developing future leaders continues to guide everything we do.

Start Your Journey With Us

Families throughout Newport News trust Peninsula Boxing Academy because we provide more than quality boxing instruction.

Every student who joins our academy becomes part of a community that believes success is earned through discipline, respect, hard work, and perseverance.

They choose us for our: