A Champion at 14, What’s Next

By A. Govea — alberto@holatexas.us

August 17, 2026

At just 14 years old, Jada Robles has reached a mountaintop that few ever experienced: becoming a National Golden Gloves Champion. In sports—and in life—we all strive for that summit. Jada’s journey reminds us that real achievement comes from discipline, sacrifice, and faith.

Many young people today get their “one‑minute rush” from a phone screen. Video games often become their version of sports. In my years working with at‑risk youth, I heard kids proudly say, “I scored 50 points today, 5 touchdowns, and knocked out Mike Tyson.” Of course, they were talking about video games—though sometimes I wasn’t sure they knew that.

But that is not Jada.

As she shared, her road to success has been anything but easy. “If you do not learn discipline you won’t succeed,” she said. Discipline to train even when she doesn’t feel like it. Discipline to miss social outings with friends. Discipline to stay committed to the work long before stepping into the ring.

Jada learned early that while every boxer wants to compete, nothing happens without the grind in the gym. Once you’re in the ring, you rely on everything you’ve learned, your discipline, your faith. You may not win every match, but each one becomes a building block toward victory. “Once in the ring you take all that you have learned along with the discipline

to stay on the course.”

When asked what advice she has for young people considering boxing, Jada didn’t hesitate: “It’s not the easiest of sports. Know that it will require much hard work and dedication—and never forget to have God in the center.”

Her faith is central to who she is. Coach Juan shared that Jada prays for her opponent and with her opponent. That kind of humility and grounding surely gives her parents confidence that she is ready for whatever comes next.

And what comes next is big: her freshman year of high school, where she hopes to pursue a career in nursing. Outside the ring, Jada enjoys painting and attending church to worship Jesus.

Before closing, Jada made sure to thank Coach Juan and all the coaches who guided her, especially her dad, who she credits with pushing her to always give her best.

From Hola Texas

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Jada Robles, National Golden Gloves Champion at 14. We also thank the dedicated coaches at 2nd Chance Boxing, who show up week after week for our youth.

To Jada’s family—mom Alyssa Wood, dad Macario Robles, and siblings Jayden (12), Julyssa (9), and Jennie (3)—we ask for God’s continued blessing on your home.

Jada, we wish you an amazing freshman year. We know you will do well. And don’t forget to have fun—make your high school experience special.