DYESS AIR FORCE BASE, Tx -- On Oct. 14 four Dyess Airmen stood inside a boxing ring to spar off, some for the very time. 

The Dyess Boxing Club was formed to give base personnel a way to learn boxing in a safe and cost-free environment, said Tech. Sgt. Edward Rivas, Dyess boxing coach. 

The club, which started just a few months ago, has already grown to a half a dozen boxers, each with different goals in mind, he said. 

"Some of them come here to find out what boxing is and some have come here to learn how to box in a competitive environment," Sergeant Rivas said. "I don't care if they are here for a workout or to box competitively; I give each person the same treatment." 

Sergeant Rivas, who has been coaching boxing for more than five years, is also serving as a coach on the All Air Force Boxing Team. 

One of the sergeant's goals when first arriving at Dyess was to fill a desire in the local area to provide boxing fundamentals for free. 

"Texas is a hotbed for boxing. Abilene didn't offer a free system for those interested in learning how to box, so I wanted to provide that to the base," Sergeant Rivas said. 

Eventually he hopes to open it up to people in the downtown community as well. Right now it is open to anyone who can get on base with an ID, he said. 

Airmen like Khalid Kure, who are new to boxing, have found the program to be addictive and fun. 

"I joined originally to help stay fit and learn how to fight," said Airman 1st Class Kure. "It's been two months, and I absolutely love it. The coach (Sergeant Rivas) has taught me a lot." 

Another Airman, Jason Medina, got to box in his first match Saturday. 

"I'm just excited to be able to compete for the first time. I've always wanted to box, and am just excited for the opportunity to learn," said Airman 1st Class Jason Medina. 

While Airman Medina didn't win his match, Sergeant Rivas said he was impressed it took the final score cards to have an experienced boxer beat him. It was evident he stayed with his training and showed exceptional defense throughout the entire bout, said the coach. 

The other Airmen to get a fight Saturday were Staff Sgt. Benjamin Tucker, Airmen 1st Class Walbert Rivera and Edward Ossome, with Airman Ossome walking away with a victory. Airman Ossome impressed Sergeant Rivas with his long reach and getting his opponent to fall into three standing eight counts. 

While the boxing club is focused on helping Airmen reach the All Air Force Box Off, Sergeant Rivas is willing to teach anyone who is willing to learn. For more information, contact Sergeant Rivas at edward.rivas@dyess.af.mil.