Meet Richard Rodriguez

COACH, CORPUS CHRISTI COMMUNITY CENTER BOXING GYM

For nearly three decades, Richard Rodriguez has been the heart of the Corpus Christi Community Center’s Boxing Gym. More than a coach, he’s a mentor, a father figure, and a steady presence for young boxers looking for discipline, purpose, and a place to belong. Richard first started coaching in 1996, transforming the gym into a haven for kids who needed structure and a positive outlet.

“I wanted them to have a place to train, to build confidence, and to keep them on the right path,” he says. “These kids mean a lot to me because I care about them not going the wrong way." 

The walls of his gym tell a story—photos of champions past and present, including his late son Riko, whose memory fuels Richard’s dedication to the sport and the athletes he trains. One of those athletes is Isaiah Villegas, known as "Corn Bread," who first walked into the gym at six years old, mesmerized by the sounds of gloves hitting heavy bags and the energy of the fighters training.

“It took me three years to convince my mom to let me join,” Isaiah recalls. “I met Coach Richard when I was nine, and he’s been in my corner for almost every fight since." 

His coaching philosophy isn’t just about building champions in the ring—it’s about building strong, disciplined individuals outside of it. Many of his fighters have gone on to compete at high levels, including the prestigious Golden Gloves tournament, an honor Isaiah recently achieved.

“It’s an amazing feeling to represent Corpus Christi and all the hard work we’ve put in,” Isaiah says." 

Richard is proud of his fighters’ accomplishments, but he doesn’t seek recognition for himself. Even after his recent induction into the Texas Golden Gloves Hall of Fame, he remains humble.

“This gym isn’t about me—it’s about the boxers,” he says. “And when they come back years later with their own sons to train, that means everything." 

Richard Rodriguez’s impact extends far beyond the ring. He’s not just coaching boxing—he’s shaping lives, one fighter at a time.

For more on the Community Center Boxing Gym, visit: