Costello’s Boxing Gym, a Tacony neighborhood institution since 1996, will have its Grand Opening on Saturday, November 12, from Noon until 4pm, in its new home right in the heart of Tacony, at 6846 Torresdale Ave (corner of Torresdale and Longshore in Tacony). Throughout the day there will be food, outdoor games, tours of the gym and more. The ribbon cutting will be at 12:15pm. The Gym’s opening continues and accelerates the new businesses opening in Tacony.
New premises in the neighborhood isn’t the only thing new for venerable Costello Boxing Gym! Joey Dawejko, a 14-time amateur National Champion, current professional heavyweight contender and lifelong Tacony resident will join as head trainer, running the boxing program. Also newly added will be fitness classes, morning yoga (days TBD), and girls-only sessions for defense and boxing. And even though they’re in a new space, with new programs, the youth program fee will remain the same as it has been, $10 per month.
“That low price is a big part of what we do,” said President Brian Costello. “We have deep roots in this community, and it’s wonderful how so many different people and groups have rallied to help make this happen. The Block Gives Back will be here, grilling and serving up hot dogs and burgers as part of their Feed the Block Cookouts (everyone is invited!), Art History 101 will be on hand, along with friends, neighbors and business owners from up and down Torresdale.”
“We’re very excited to have this long-standing business anchoring—and activating—such an important corner of the Tacony district. We’re excited to see Costello’s Gym take center stage like this,” said Georgeanne Huff-Labovitz, the board president of the Tacony Community Development Corp and owner of Marie Huff Salon.
Costello Gym is taking over space previously occupied by Santander Bank. A complete makeover, as well as attractive murals inside and out, have made it a showpiece for the commercial district, and for smart, adaptive reuse. New signage, painting and mural work was leveraged through the city’s Commerce Department Storefront Improvement Grant.
“The Block Gives Back is excited to welcome Costello Gym to the 6800 block of Torresdale,” said Amber Allen, Director of Development. “They’ve been a great community partner, and we’re excited to be bringing our Feed The Block Cookout to their grand opening, and to see them continue their important work in the city.”
“We’re thrilled that Costello Gym will be here,” said Tacony CDC director James McCrone, “and we’re happy that the building itself has turned out so nicely. We’re happy that the Costellos are bringing life to a crucial corner of the district. Everyone I’ve spoken with is excited for Costello Gym to open.”
Friends and family, including Anne Costello, wife of Jack Costello, will join community members and boxing enthusiasts for the ribbon cutting at 12:15pm with tours, games and food. Festivities go until 4pm.
Jack Costello, for whom the gym is named, is in the boxing Hall of Fame, and one of his greatest contributions was working with young people. For more information about the gym and Frank Costello, check out: https://jackcostelloboxing.com/who-is-jack-costello
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