NYC's Oldest Boxing Gym Boosts Profile

Gleason’s Gym, famously where Robert De Niro prepared for "Raging Bull" and Hillary Swank trained for "Million Dollar Baby," has transitioned through three New York City boroughs over nine decades without losing its legacy.

"It's a unified community,” owner Bruce Silverglade remarked to The Post, reflecting on the gym's history from its origin in the Bronx to Manhattan, and now DUMBO, where it's been honored with a street co-naming.

Gleason's has seen its fair share of star power, welcoming athletes like Muhammad Ali and Jake LaMotta, and celebrities such as Miles Davis and Hugh Jackman.

"We never reach out to Page Six. We treat everyone the same," Silverglade added.

Both De Niro and Swank, who trained extensively at Gleason's, won Oscars for their roles. According to Silverglade, the line between boxing and acting is thin.

Both actors immersed themselves wholly into the boxing world, attending events and bonding with the gym's staff.

Gleason’s also attracts film crews, having been featured in numerous films and commercials. Its timeless, authentic aesthetic makes it a popular choice for location scouts seeking an old-school vibe over modern glitz.

Despite its fame, Silverglade insists that every trainee at Gleason's shares a common goal. "Everyone gets the same training," he said. "Looking out my window, you wouldn't know who's who. Everyone's working hard."

Since taking over the reins in the 1980s, Silverglade has welcomed a diverse array of clients, from business executives to homemakers, and at-risk youths.

Through the Give A Kid A Dream initiative, which has run for over thirty years, young people referred by schools and parole officers receive free memberships along with tutoring and trips.

“We assist in any way we can,” Silverglade shared. “By supporting the community, we gain so much more.”

Gleason’s now offers free memberships for veterans and special programs for individuals with autism, Parkinson’s, and those in wheelchairs. Recently, a group for transgender boxers was established.

"At Gleason's, everyone gets along. It’s the last melting pot in the city,” Silverglade noted about the gym's inclusive atmosphere. “If the world embraced this model, many issues could be resolved.”

Council Member Farah Lewis initially approached Silverglade to designate the gym as a landmark, but he declined, worried it would limit his ability to make changes.

Instead, the gym was honored with a street co-naming.

The official naming ceremony took place on August 21, Silverglade’s 87th birthday, marking the corner of Water and Adams streets as Gleason’s Gym Way. The event drew boxers, fans, and officials.

Gleason’s rich history will soon be documented in a film by director Mary Jo Slater. A kindergarten classmate of Silverglade, Slater was captivated by the gym's spirit.

"It’s all about camaraderie. The place is magical," she stated.

While discussions for a documentary have been ongoing, Slater is committed to showcasing Gleason's impact on both the community and DUMBO.

“[Silverglade] is transforming lives through openness and inclusivity,” Slater said. “It’s a truly special place.”

Source: aol

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