The oldest boxing gym in the United States, Gleason’s Gym in Brooklyn, is known for its history, having trained boxing legends like Muhammad Ali, Floyd Mayweather Jr., and Mike Tyson. But now, it’s also home to Trans Boxing, an initiative founded by Nolan Hanson, a transgender coach.
Hanson’s journey into boxing began as a search for community and a way to express his masculinity. After a career-ending wrist injury, he transitioned medically and decided to stay involved in the sport by coaching. Trans Boxing was born out of his desire to create a space for trans people, historically excluded from boxing, to train and compete.
Bruce Silverglade, the current owner of Gleason’s Gym, has always been open to training anyone who is positive towards the sport. He embraced Trans Boxing, saying, “I have always been receptive to training anybody that is positive towards the sport. So when I was introduced to Nolan, and he asked if he would be allowed to train his clients here, I said absolutely.”
Hanson has trained thousands of clients, encompassing all genders and sexual identities. Recently, he integrated his cis clients and Trans Boxing clients into one team training session, fostering solidarity and acknowledging the presence of trans and nonbinary individuals in society.
His students have found solace and empowerment in Trans Boxing. Kory Pippen found discipline and quit smoking, Sammy L. discovered a passion for fitness, and Ben G. gained a sense of self-defense.
Trans Boxing has expanded to Los Angeles, growing as Hanson’s clientele expands. For Hanson, the name represents more than just transgender boxing; it symbolizes self-discovery through the sport, with “trans” representing the transformative nature of the journey. He believes that by showing up in spaces where trans people haven’t always been welcome, they can contribute to positive change.
