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NORFOLK, Va. (WAVY) – Several nonprofits inside the Military Circle mall are looking for new rental space even after the city announced it would close the mall later this month.
There are only two weeks left before the mall closes.
Easy Work Boxing and Fitness is one organization scrambling to find a new location to set up shop.
From the outside, it looks like an ordinary shop, but inside, everyone from children to teenagers love boxing.
Dorsett Barnwell, owner of Easy Work Boxing and Fitness, says he had 17 assault charges by the time he was 13.
Boxing saved his life, he said.
“I know first-hand what a program like this really does to the community because it did it for me,” says Barnwell.
It teaches discipline and structure through every jab, cross and hook.
“Kids who understand that usually grow up to be more successful adults,” said assistant coach Mustafa Blackcastle.
Black-Castle has been boxing for 14 years and says he didn’t realize the impact he had on children’s lives when he started coaching.
“The work we do is actually saving lives and keeping children out of jail,” Blackcastle said.
“It’s so easy for these kids to find things to do in the negative,” says Barnwell.
But with the mall closing in a few weeks, these boxers will have nowhere to meet.
Barnwell said several city council members and the mayor have visited his space since the mall’s closure was announced.
“There are so many things going on in this one place that both children and adults benefit from,” says Barnwell.
He says he hopes the city will invest in programs that help children rather than take up space for them.
“Not enough attention is being paid to children who are actually productive citizens,” Barnwell said.
They’re trying to roll with their punches, but it’s hard to find affordable space near where the athletes live.
They hope the community will step into the ring and help plan their next move.
“Honestly, we were in a really desperate situation and wanted to take up space in the city of Norfolk,” Blackcastle said.
Jameel Germany has been boxing for over a year and said he can’t wait to come to practice.
“It’s like family now when we walk in the gym,” Germany said.
Germany has won national championship titles and says it’s hard to imagine not being able to step into Easy Work every day.
“It’s kind of hard to know that we have to leave,” Germany said.
Barnwell and Black-Castle said they hope to continue to make a difference in children’s lives from where they land next.
“To see them succeed,” Blackcastle said. “It’s a wonderful feeling.”
Barnwell and Black-Castle have a non-profit organization called Mentality Sports Club that is the driving force behind Easy Work Boxing and Fitness.
Contact Barnwell or Black-Castle if you have prospects for an Easy Work Boxing and Fitness space.Jim’s contact information can be found on their facebook pageWe also accept donations on our cash app $mentalitysportsclub.
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