ABOUT

Who We Are

Fierce N Fit Special Needs Charitable Organization provides adaptive, non-contact boxing, fitness and social opportunities for people with disabilities in Waterloo Region. We serve more than 70 athletes each week, supported by over 20 volunteer coaches.

Our athletes include people with Down syndrome, autism, fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD), cerebral palsy, epilepsy, acquired brain injuries and other intellectual, developmental or physical disabilities. We also support athletes who are Deaf or hard of hearing, are blind or have vision loss, use wheelchairs or need mobility assistance.

Many athletes have multiple disabilities and require individualized support. We adapt instruction and activities to each person’s abilities, communication preferences and support needs, helping them participate and develop skills at their own pace.

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Our Approach

Every athlete brings their own strengths, interests and goals. Our coaches and volunteers use demonstrations, repeated instructions and adapted exercises to help athletes learn boxing skills and participate in group activities.

Some athletes need additional time or encouragement, while others require ongoing individual assistance. We work with athletes, families and support workers to understand what helps each person participate.

Our in-person and online programs create regular opportunities for physical activity and connection. Social activities and community outings give athletes time to enjoy friendships and shared experiences outside of class.

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Our Coaches

Our team includes more than twenty volunteer coaches with backgrounds in boxing, special education and supporting people with disabilities. Some have medical backgrounds, and others bring specialized training and experience in working with individuals who need physical, sensory or cognitive accommodations. Our team also includes certified boxing instructors.

All Fierce N Fit volunteer coaches are required to review the NCCP Introduction to Coaching Athletes with a Disability manual as part of their onboarding. Our coaching team also includes individuals with additional NCCP training, boxing coaching qualifications and experience supporting people with disabilities.

Every athlete brings unique abilities and strengths. Our coaches adapt exercises and instruction, provide individualized assistance and encourage athletes to progress at their own pace. Athletes and coaches support one another, celebrate progress and help make each person feel valued as part of the team.

We proudly create A Place for All.

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Why Our Work Matters

People with disabilities can face barriers to participating in community fitness and recreation, including inaccessible spaces and a lack of individualized support. Finding a program that accommodates their needs can be especially challenging for athletes with multiple disabilities.

Fierce N Fit provides opportunities to stay active, develop boxing skills and build friendships through adapted instruction and personal support. Regular classes and social activities give athletes a place to connect, work toward their goals and feel valued.

Community support helps us sustain these opportunities, strengthen coach training and work toward greater accessibility so we can welcome and support more athletes.