Our Founder
INTRODUCTION
The Art of Overcoming
2 Weeks before his first pro fight, a severe car accident left him without his left leg and with the right leg severely injured. After 14 surgeries and years of recovery, Fransonet “Jinji” Martinez stepped back into the ring and won the first boxing fight between an amputee and an able-bodied boxer.
His story of triumph not only inspires countless individuals in overcoming some of life’s toughest obstacles but also serves as fuel to his passion for serving at-risk youth here in Lancaster, PA.
After investing years of his work into developing young athletes, giving them a “gym home” and “gym family,” he and a handful of others decided it was time to elevate the mission in establishing Jinji Foundation.
Jinji Foundation continues to serve in its main hub at Jinji’s Boxing Club, taking their team of teens and kids to tournaments all over the country. His athletes continue to compete in everything from local bouts to Golden Gloves and National Championships, all while realizing what he’s known all along – they have so much more within them to be realized in this life.
“Losing only happens if you give up. That is the only way.”
What if you worked your whole life towards one goal and in an instant it’s all taken away? The life you were supposed to lead all pulled out from under you in a single moment? Would you just give up or find a way no matter what?
“You don't lose if you get knocked down. You lose if you stay down.”
Coach Jinji is a true leader, constantly pushing his athletes to reach new heights. His passion is helping them not only improve their skills, but to also gain valuable experience in building character and fostering strong community ties.
Week after week, he and his wife, Mrs. Coach, work to inspire a sense of confidence and determination in all who attend their gym, empowering them to achieve their goals and strive for greatness. Their unwavering dedication and hands-on approach make them such gifts to the Lancaster community.
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Changing Lives in Lancaster
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