Today we’d like to introduce you to Julian Ortega
Hi Julian, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I have been a boxing coach in Houston at HTX FightCamp for a couple of years, as it has always been a passion of mine. When my wife and I moved to Austin in 2021, I continued training part-time. Our organization began in 2022 when an idea was placed on our hearts after my brother tragically passed away from suicide following a struggle with mental health. This heartbreaking loss opened my eyes to the importance of mental health and inspired me to reach out to young people who might be battling this hidden struggle.
Boxing gave me confidence as a kid after years of being bullied, and it completely changed my life. Naturally, my wife and I decided to use the sport as a way to help kids who are struggling—instilling in them confidence, discipline, perseverance, and faith in God as they navigate life’s challenges.
In the summer of 2023, we launched our program as a ministry through Hope Community Church, with sponsorship from ATX FightCamp, a second gym in Round Rock from HTX FightCamp owned by Enrique Cruz. Our first summer camp was a huge success, with up to 20 kids attending, volunteers stepping in to help, and many families and parents donating equipment. Unfortunately, the church closed down and the gym switched its focus back to its HQ in Houston, leading us to pause the program in 2024. However, we are restarting in 2025 and, until we secure a new location for the summer, we are training outdoors.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
We faced challenges when our church, which hosted the ministry, shut down, and also no longer having a gym to sponsor us forced us to pause our organization temporarily. However, we realized that we don’t need a physical location to continue making an impact. So, we’ve decided to keep training outdoors while we search for a new gym location.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
My wife Gabriela , and I are both professions as an architect, and I, an engineer, but we both find more joy and share a deep passion for both boxing and helping those in need. That’s why we started this organization. What we’re most proud of is being able to offer this program completely free of charge, ensuring that families who can’t afford sports and recreation in the summer still have access to a positive, supportive environment for their kids.
Do you any memories from childhood that you can share with us?
My favorite childhood memory was putting on the gloves for the first time and feeling like a purpose was found, and finding a confidence in myself at 12 years old that I want to also inspire to a new generation who face challenges such as anxiety, depression, and suicide. We’re hoping we can also change young kids lives with this organization and give them the tools to go through the pains and hurts from life and come out stronger.
Pricing:
- $0 charge for attendance
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fgfboxing
Image Credits
Julian Ortega-Head coach
Gabriela Ortega-Assistant coach
Enrinque Cruz-HTX FightCamp’s owner
