Blue's Gym

History

Blue's Gym History

Blue’s Gym has a rich history that traces back to its founder, Dino Newville, a four-time world kickboxing champion coming from Grand Rapids, Michigan. Dino’s passion for martial arts and his deep Christian values were the driving force behind the creation of Blue’s Gym. After a long and illustrious career in kickboxing, Dino felt the need to give back to his community by creating a space where young people could find solace and purpose.

Dino’s personal experience with the struggles of the streets and his desire to prevent young people from falling into similar traps led him to establish Blue’s Gym. The name of the gym is a tribute to his father, Billy Blue.

Since its inception, Blue’s Gym has become a symbol of hope and inspiration for the youth of Grand Rapids. The gym offers a wide range of activities and classes, including martial arts, weightlifting, and cardio exercises. But more than that, it provides a safe haven where young people can learn discipline, build self-confidence, and develop a sense of community.

Dino Newville’s legacy lives on through Blue’s Gym, which continues to impact the lives of countless young people in Grand Rapids and beyond. The gym has become more than just a place to work out; it’s a beacon of hope for anyone seeking a better life.

How Blue's Gym Began

Our History

Stumbling across a large commercial space on Kalamazoo Avenue, Dino knew that this was the place for his gym. Dino was eventually able to acquire the space. The space was initially designed for boxing, but Dino wanted to help martial arts schools and trainers in the area by allowing them to rent space to teach their classes. Seeing the potential to help further Dino also implemented a learning center with the help of Grand Valley State University students. This center comes equipped with books, tables, computers, and the occasional volunteer tutor. Dino’s vision was to create a space where kids could come and do their work in a positive environment and receive help if they need it.

Running the gym alongside his wife Sara Newville, Blue’s Gym since the beginning has been known for consistently producing champions. Using his skills developed in the ring and friendships with legendary fighters like Manny Pacquiao, Floyd Mayweather, and Mike Tyson, Dino has successfully been able to teach camps that create champions.

The reputation of Blue’s Gym and Dino also exceeds the ring as he is known throughout the Grand Rapids community for his generosity and commitment to helping those in need. Regularly conducting annual drives for food, winter clothing, and Thanksgiving meals, Dino has always loved helping whenever he can.

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Blue's Gym

Fill the Gyms, Not the Prisons.