From center court to the boxing ring, James Hoy's journey isn't your typical coaching story. After three decades of molding young basketball players and running summer camps, fate threw an unexpected jab his way—in the form of legendary Pittsburgh figure Jimmy Cvetic.

"I thought my coaching days were set in stone," James recalls with a smile. "Basketball was my world. Then Jimmy walked in."

Jimmy Cvetic—police officer, poet, and the passionate force behind the Western Pennsylvania Police Athletic League—saw something in James that James himself couldn't yet see. Their first conversation became the cornerstone of what would eventually become Team 412 Boxing:

"I assured Jimmy I knew nothing about boxing," James remembers. "And I'll never forget his response: 'Good! This doesn't have anything to do with boxing—it's about kids... you'll figure the rest out!'"

That pivotal moment sparked a transformation. James traded his basketball clipboard for hand wraps and focus mitts, but brought along the most important elements of his coaching philosophy: building character, instilling discipline, and treating every young athlete as someone with unlimited potential.

Under James's leadership, Team 412 Boxing has become more than a gym—it's a sanctuary where Pittsburgh's youth find purpose, discipline, and community. His unique approach blends old-school toughness with genuine compassion, creating an environment where champions are born—both in and out of the ring.

"The sweet science teaches life's toughest lessons in three-minute rounds," says James. "Our kids learn that getting knocked down isn't failure—it's what you do when you get back up that defines you."

With national champions and Olympic hopefuls now among his protégés, James has certainly "figured the rest out." But ask him about his proudest accomplishments, and he'll point to the everyday victories: the improved grades, the newfound confidence, the kids who found their way when the odds were stacked against them.

Jimmy Cvetic knew it all along. This was never just about boxing.

The path to Team 412's corner wasn't a straight line for Aaron Allen. Born and raised in Greensburg, PA, Aaron's journey began in academia, earning a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from Chowan University—a foundation that would later shape his approach to mentoring youth in Pittsburgh's toughest neighborhoods.

"Education gave me structure and purpose," Aaron reflects. "I wanted to pass that same sense of discipline on to others, but I never imagined boxing would be the vehicle."

Aaron's expertise in tactical training led him to establish Elite Tactical Firearms Training LLC, where he teaches civilians, security professionals, and law enforcement the proper use of firearms with an unwavering focus on safety. But it was a chance encounter on Pittsburgh's streets that changed the trajectory of his career.

"I was downtown when I spotted them—a group of kids running together, focused and determined," Aaron recounts. "Something about their energy made me stop and ask who they were."

The answer was Team 412 Boxing, and that moment of curiosity blossomed into a calling. What started as a conversation evolved into an opportunity when Coach Hoy recognized Aaron's unique skill set and perspective.

"These kids don't just need boxing technique—they need role models who understand discipline from different angles," Aaron explains. "My background in law enforcement training translates perfectly to the ring: respect your opponent, follow the rules, and always prioritize safety."

Aaron's coaching philosophy centers on precision and accountability. The same meticulousness he brings to firearms training appears in how he breaks down boxing fundamentals, teaching young athletes that details matter—both in sport and in life.

"We're building champions who understand that every action has consequences," he says. "Whether it's your footwork or your life choices, being deliberate about your movements makes all the difference."

When he's not coaching at Team 412, Aaron continues his work with Elite Tactical, but the lines between his two passions have blurred. He now sees both roles as part of the same mission: empowering individuals with the skills and confidence to navigate challenging situations safely and effectively.

"Boxing and personal safety training share the same core principles—awareness, discipline, and controlled response under pressure," Aaron says. "I'm fortunate to have found two paths that align so perfectly with my purpose."

Beanie Barroso knows exactly what it feels like to stand in his young boxers' shoes—because not long ago, he was wearing them himself. The transition from Team 412 fighter to coach happened so naturally that Beanie sometimes finds himself shadowboxing alongside his students, muscle memory still fresh from his own competitive days.

"I had my last fight in February 2020, at the Showboat in Atlantic City," Beanie says, the pride still evident in his voice. "Fifty fights, wins over national champions, tournament victories—I thought nothing could match the feeling of having your hand raised after a tough bout."

He pauses, watching a young boxer perfect a combination across the gym.

"I was wrong. Seeing them succeed feels even better."

Beanie's boxing journey began in 2019 under Coach Hoy's guidance. What started as a way to stay in shape quickly revealed itself as a natural talent. With quick hands and a fighter's instinct, Beanie racked up impressive victories and built a reputation as one of Team 412's standout competitors.

But as his competitive career peaked, a new passion emerged—one that pulled him toward the other side of the ropes.

"I've always been a team player," Beanie explains. "Even when boxing, which is traditionally a solo sport, I approached it with a team mindset. But these past couple years, I've discovered that my greatest contribution might be in developing the next generation."

This revelation became clear during the 2023 Detroit national qualifier, where Beanie helped coach Trinity Burke to a national championship. The experience solidified his new path, culminating in his role assisting all his former teammates at the 2023 Olympic trials.

"Boxing teaches you to read people—to anticipate their movements and respond appropriately," Beanie says. "That same skill helps me connect with these kids. I can see when they're frustrated, when they're holding back, when they need pushing or when they need patience."

What sets Beanie apart as a coach is his recent experience as a competitor. He speaks the current language of boxing, understands the contemporary challenges, and carries the credibility that comes from recent success in the ring.

"Some lessons can only come from someone who's been there," he says. "When I tell them I know what they're feeling, it's not just talk. The nerves before a big fight, the disappointment after a loss, the sacrifice it takes to compete at a high level—these are fresh memories for me."

For the young boxers at Team 412, particularly those with championship aspirations, Beanie represents what's possible. His journey from newcomer to national-level competitor to respected coach all happened within their gym, under their banner, alongside their teammates.

"Every day, I'm grateful Coach Hoy saw something in me worth developing," Beanie reflects. "Now I'm looking for that same spark in others. That's the beautiful cycle of this sport—champions creating champions."