This is part of Salem Reporter’s series looking at local teens working summer jobs. If you know of a teen that has an interesting job, send an email to Brook Ferris ([email protected]). Roman Negrete knows how to throw a punch.  His job at Toe 2 Toe Boxing Fitness requires much more than boxing abilities, however. As a 17-year-old coach, he spends his time helping members improve their workouts, teaching proper technique and making sure everyone is safe.  “Everyone’s safety is our No. 1 priority in this gym,” he said. For Roman and the five other teen coaches, the ring has become a place where they are learning how to lead.  Roman Negrete (left) and Oliver Matorga, fitness coaches at Toe 2 Toe Fitness, practice punching combinations on focus mitts during a boxing workout at Toe 2 Toe Fitness. (BROOK FERRIS/Salem Reporter) While many teenagers enter the workforce looking for a first paycheck, the young coaches at Toe 2 Toe are also learning patience, leadership, and communication skills by helping others through boxing and fitness training at the gym. Teens spend their shifts coaching members ranging in age from four to 78. The owner and founder, Adam Navarro, opened Toe 2 Toe in 2020 with the goal of creating a welcoming environment where people of all ages and skill levels could learn boxing and improve their fitness. In 2021, the business expanded by founding a nonprofit with structured youth programs, giving young athletes opportunities both in and outside of the ring. “We teach fitness, agility, strength, and conditioning far more than anything, but we do use boxing as the base,” said Navarro. Sophia Zazueta Matthews (left), Roman Negrete, Oliver Matorga and Maya Perez Santos, fitness coaches at Toe 2 Toe Fitness, practice punching combinations on focus mitts during a boxing workout at Toe 2 Toe Fitness. (BROOK FERRIS/Salem Reporter) He said watching the teenagers grow into coaches has become one of the most rewarding parts of running the gym. “All of them are very good boxers, and they’re developing their coaching and leadership skills,” said Navarro.  Spencer Hagen, 15, said one of the biggest lessons he has learned is that every member progresses at a different pace.  “Some kids struggle with weightlifting and proper form,” said Spencer. “The best thing to do is just have patience with them.” For the coaches, patience is key with everyone who walks through the door. From helping a child learn to throw their first punch to adults pursuing fitness goals, they adapt their coaching to fit each person’s abilities.  For 17-year-old Maya Perez Santos, coaching at Toe 2 Toe has given her confidence in ways she didn’t originally expect.  “It makes me feel more powerful as a woman to be in this sport — especially a male-dominated sport,” said Maya.  Maya Perez Santos, fitness coach at Toe 2 Toe fitness demonstrates beginning mitt training techniques. (BROOK FERRIS/Salem Reporter) Fourteen-year-old Sophia Zazueta Matthews said she enjoys working directly with people and seeing their progress over time.  “I’d rather work with people one-on-one at a job than sit in a cubicle all day,” she said.  Sophia is hoping to save enough money from coaching to buy a car soon, while Roman is putting money away for a new computer. For Roman, the paycheck isn’t the only reason he continues coming back to the gym.  “I get to do something that I love every day rather than flipping burgers all day,” said Roman. “Boxing has taught me more than how to throw a punch. It’s taught me motivation and purpose.” Navarro always wanted to open a welcoming gym where anyone could be introduced to the sport of boxing.  Today, that dream is a reality that he wants to share with the rest of Salem. “It’s a sport where you can overcome a lot of fear, build self confidence, get in better shape, have some fun, and be loud and crazy”, said Navarro. A row of punching bags line the interior of Toe 2 Toe gym where boxing and fitness lessons are held. (BROOK FERRIS/Salem Reporter) Contact reporter Brook Ferris: [email protected]. SIGN UP: “Your work helps hold leaders accountable and gives citizens a voice.” Independent reporting gives Salem a stronger voice on issues from homelessness to health care. Be part of that work. Subscribe today. The post TEENS AT WORK: Young coaches find their strength beyond the ring, knocking out doubt and building confidence appeared first on Salem Reporter. ...read more read less