Down to Box program returns to Sussex County with new location, coaches

The Down Syndrome Association of Delaware is bringing back Down to Box, a boxing-based fitness program for individuals with Down syndrome and other intellectual and developmental disabilities in Sussex County. (Photo courtesy of Down to Box.)

A boxing-based fitness program for individuals with Down syndrome and other intellectual and developmental disabilities is returning to Sussex County through a partnership between the Down Syndrome Association of Delaware (DSADE) and Five Points Boxing Club.

The organizations are relaunching Down to Box, a program for individuals ages 14 and older that uses boxing techniques to help participants build coordination, self-defense skills and physical fitness in a supportive group environment.

Founded in 2018 by DSADE Executive Director Lauren Camp Gates and Knockout Boxing and Fitness owner Jonathan Gainey, the program was created to address the need for more fitness opportunities for adults with Down syndrome and other intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Since then, Down to Box has expanded to nearly 20 locations across the country, including programs in Florida and Arizona. The original class continues to meet weekly in Newark.

The program has previously been offered in Sussex County, but organizers say the partnership with Five Points Boxing Club in Harbeson is intended to bring new energy to the local classes with a new location and coaching staff.

“Five Points Boxing approached us about getting involved in Down to Box,” said Camp Gates. “Their facility and their passionate coaches will help us start an exciting new chapter for the program and serve people who are looking to be part of a community that will challenge them.”

The relaunch is part of DSADE’s ongoing efforts to expand its presence in Sussex County after opening a Milton office in 2024.

To introduce the program, DSADE and Five Points Boxing Club will host an open house from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Thursday, July 31, at Five Points Boxing Club, 18388 Coastal Highway in Lewes. Interested participants and volunteers are invited to attend, and no registration is required.

Weekly classes will begin in August and will be held Wednesdays from 5 to 6 p.m. Registration is available through the Down Syndrome Association of Delaware.