(Submitted photo)
The Bucks County Sheriff’s Office Police Athletic League (PAL) is stepping into the ring with the legendary Joe Hand Boxing Gym to launch a brand-new youth boxing initiative.
Sheriff Fred Harran said the partnership is looking to instill discipline, confidence and self-esteem in young people throughout the county while promoting positive interactions between youth and law enforcement.
The announcement was made at the state-of-the-art Joe Hand Boxing Gym facility in Lower Southampton Township.
The boxing program marks the inaugural effort of the newly established Bucks County Sheriff’s Office PAL program, which is funded entirely by a new nonprofit group that includes support from the Penn Community Bank Foundation. Harran’s office said the program does not use taxpayer funds.
Harran said he was thrilled to partner with Joe Hand Boxing Gym for the launch of the PAL.
“This youth program is more than just learning a sport; it’s about building character, promoting healthy lifestyles, and creating a safe space where young people can thrive and interact positively with law enforcement officers,” Harran said.
The Joe Hand Boxing Gym was founded by retired Philadelphia police detective and boxing promoter Joe Hand Sr.
Since relocating to its new 6,000-square-foot facility in 2020, the gym has expanded its focus to support individuals facing unique challenges while keeping its boxing roots.
“For decades, the Joe Hand Boxing Gym has been a sanctuary for young people, instilling values that extend far beyond the ring,” said Joe Hand, Jr. “Partnering with the Bucks County Sheriff’s Office PAL allows us to expand our reach and offer this vital program to more youth in Bucks County.”
Sessions for the co-ed PAL program is for youth ages 11-17 and has classes offered twice weekly. Each class session is limited to 15 participants from schools across Bucks County to ensure personalized attention and a focus on fundamental skill development in a safe, non-contact or controlled-contact environment.
The classes began earlier this month.
Community members interested in learning more about the Bucks County Sheriff’s Office PAL can visit the sheriff’s website.
