Blog Post 2: Boxing: Courage, Durability, and Real-World Problem Solving

At Dr. Robert Clyne’s summer camp in Santa Clara, Cuba, boxing isn’t just about physical fitness—it’s about cultivating the mental toughness, courage, and problem-solving skills that are crucial in today’s unpredictable world. Under the guidance of a Cuban bronze medalist and a coach who has produced a current world champion, campers learn the true spirit of boxing, which is deeply ingrained in Cuba’s education system.

In Cuba, boxing is a national passion that starts in primary schools. Talented youths are identified early and sent to specialized schools where they hone their skills, eventually training in one of the most competitive systems in the world. With legends like Teofilo Stevenson—who won three Olympic gold medals—Cuban boxing has a proud legacy of excellence, sportsmanship, and character-building.

A Camp Story: Victor’s Knockout Moment

Take 16-year-old Victor, for instance. Having only trained for a few days, he was already showing impressive resilience. During a sparring session with a professional female boxer, Victor took a punch that sent him crashing into the ropes. But instead of crumbling, he bounced right back up, attacking with renewed energy to defend himself.

“I swear, when I got hit the first time, I saw a bright white light and thought I was going to heaven,” Victor laughed, recalling the moment. “But then I realized—I wasn’t dead! I was just learning a lesson. I started to believe in God after that.”

It’s this kind of grit, the ability to overcome physical and mental obstacles, that boxing teaches—resilience in the face of adversity, and the confidence to handle life’s toughest punches.

Cuban Boxing Tradition Meets Camp Excellence

At the camp, Dr. Clyne doesn’t just talk the talk—he walks the walk. In a memorable video (check our video gallery!), Dr. Clyne is seen sparring with 11-year-old Milko More Rodriguez, an island bronze medalist and Top Peer Trainer at the camp. Their friendly but intense sparring match highlights not only the skill and technique taught at the camp but the spirit of mentorship that is central to the camp’s mission. Milko’s smooth moves and quick footwork are a testament to the rigorous training that takes place in Cuba, and a reminder of how this camp isn’t just about intellectual growth—it’s about building real, hard skills that last a lifetime.

The True Power of Boxing: More Than Just a Sport

Boxing in Cuba is more than just a sport; it’s a way of life. And at Dr. Clyne’s camp, it’s not just about throwing punches—it’s about building the mindset needed to confront any challenge. The courage to stand up after getting knocked down, the durability to handle life’s stresses, and the ability to think quickly on your feet are all qualities that boxing instills in its students. And for teens who want to prepare for the world’s growing uncertainty, these lessons are invaluable.

Whether it’s sparring with future champions or facing down your own personal limits, boxing at the Santa Clara camp is an essential part of the rite of passage that will help teens build the mental fortitude to thrive in any situation.