Marco-Dean Davis helps youth build confidence through boxing

After experiencing challenges with his weight and self-confidence as a child, Marco-Dean Davis is now on a mission to help Jamaican children become healthier, both physically and mentally, through boxing. The son of dancehall artistes Moses ‘Beenie Man’ Davis and Michelle ‘D’Angel’ Downer, Davis launched his three-week boxing camp on Monday alongside seasoned boxer Kemahl Russell at H.I.I.T Box on Shortwood Road in St Andrew.
Davis, who already has a black belt in Taekwondo, told The Gleaner that he has been on a fitness journey for the past five years and has decided to assist others his age and younger in making better choices early on and generally having a positive impact on his generation.
The boxing camp, which runs until August 3, is open to boys and girls ages 10 to 18 and takes place Monday to Friday. Participants will learn boxing techniques while developing healthy habits. Davis said the programme is designed to build not only physical fitness, but also confidence, self-esteem, coordination, balance, focus, discipline, strength, respect, and teamwork. He said the inspiration for the camp stems from his own experiences as a teenager.
“When I was younger, the same age as the kids we are seeking to help, I was overweight and had confidence issues, and so I started this camp to push and build confidence in young people. I want to show them perseverance and mental strength.”
His trainer and mentor, Kemahl Russell, one of Jamaica’s premier boxers, is leading the training sessions, bringing the expertise needed to make the camp an authentic experience while ensuring the routines are suitable for younger participants eager to learn.
Believing in his own abilities as a boxer, Davis hopes to pass on the fundamentals of the sport to others.
“I do consider myself a good boxer because I have the necessary stamina, the footwork and indomitable spirit ... I have built my skills, and I know what I’m doing in both the fighting and training worlds.”
For Davis, the camp is about more than teaching children how to throw a punch. “My advice to prospective campers is to come with an open mind. I would also say that they can come and expect change, both physical and mental, because, in the end, you will be more disciplined and well-rounded. In getting fit, you are also learning how to defend yourself, so that’s a great combination. Just bring yourself and be ready, because the training is not a cakewalk.”
He is also assuring parents that their children do not have to spend the summer sitting in front of the television or playing video games, but can instead use the time to learn a new skill.  
“Kemahl has been training me ever since I was 15 and knows way more than me, so parents will get two for the price of one. We want to grow the young minds in a positive direction and shape their thought processes on a different level. So, for the ones that see me as a role model, I’m just going to teach them all that I know.”
nicola.cunningham@gleanerjm.com