Level Ground MMA has partnered with Boston Public Schools for a groundbreaking summer program that serves as one of 243 sites across the city. Our “Level Ground MMA – Summer Learning Academy” is part of the larger 5th Quarter of Learning Initiative, which serves over 18,000 students citywide.
50 Youth Participants: Students engage in a comprehensive 5-week program with 175 hours of programming
Three-Pillar Approach: Athletics, academics, and workforce development
Leadership Team: Program Director Ricardo Moreno, along with instructors Zhane Burton and Eamon Roberts
Entrepreneurship Focus: Students build real businesses from the ground up, utilizing ELA skills for persuasive pitches and math skills for financial planning
As Executive Director Ali Mercer explained to WBZ NewsRadio, Level Ground MMA breaks down financial barriers that typically prevent access to high-quality martial arts training. Mixed martial arts and jujitsu classes normally cost over $200 per month, making them inaccessible to many families. Level Ground offers these programs completely free for youth and at affordable rates for adults.
“This summer, 50 youth will engage in a super rigorous experience that combines academic learning with workforce development and athletic training, preparing them to lead in the classroom, in the workplace, and in their community.”
Founder and Executive Director Alexandra Fuller emphasized the program’s commitment to empowering youth through a holistic approach that sets them up for bright futures. Level Ground stands as the only athletic program in Boston offering free youth mixed martial arts classes alongside affordable adult programming.
During her July 7th visit, Mayor Wu didn’t just observe—she participated. After removing her shoes and putting on mixed martial arts gloves, the mayor took to the mat and sparred with 18-year-old trainer Avri Porch, demonstrating the hands-on, inclusive spirit of the program.
“This is going to be one of many times where I’m going to be back here. I’m used to rolling with the punches, but this is the first time today I got to put on the gloves and actually punch back with some real technique.”
Mayor Wu emphasized the critical role of out-of-school learning experiences, noting that some of the most important learning in Boston happens outside traditional classrooms, made possible through partnerships like this one.
City Councillor John FitzGerald, a Boston Public Schools alumnus himself, joined the mayor on the mat and praised the program’s comprehensive approach to youth development.
“As a BPS alum and someone who has been punched in the face many times and not won many fights, this program is exactly what kids need. It gets you physically fit, it gets your confidence risen, it prepares you for the academic side as well, the business, and when you cover all those things, you’re going to be a good person. You’re going to be ready for the real world.”
The program serves students ranging from 16 to 18 years old, including Eli Brhane (17), Xinyi Huang (16), and Kate Osakwe (16). These young people aren’t just participants—they’re becoming community leaders.
Kate Osakwe, who has been training at Level Ground for two years, shared her perspective on the program’s impact:
“Level Ground has been more than just a community, it’s been a home. They’re not just helping kids, they’re helping them turn into adults. Programs like these are really important in places like Boston, where we want to build our youth and give them successful careers that they want to be in.”
Avri Porch, now 18 and serving as a trainer, exemplifies the program’s leadership pathway. She began training at Level Ground at age 14 when she was homeschooled and has since become an instructor focused on women’s safety and protection.
“I started coming here when I was 14, so for four years I’ve been here. I came here because I was homeschooled back then, but now I am able to help out with the women’s classes. I’m really into women’s safety and women’s protection. I also assist the kids’ class. I want to spread the knowledge, I want everyone to be safe because it’s such an unsafe world. It doesn’t matter how small you are. My whole life, I’ve been small, and coming here made me feel so big.”
The 5th Quarter program, managed by Boston Beyond in collaboration with the City of Boston and Boston Public Schools, has been growing for 15 years and reached a milestone in 2025 by celebrating its 20th anniversary. According to Chris Smith, Executive Director of Boston Beyond, the program has reached unprecedented scale under Mayor Wu’s leadership.
The initiative spans all Boston neighborhoods, serving students from kindergarten through 12th grade with diverse programming that includes arts, sports, and STEM education. Level Ground’s unique combination of martial arts training, academic support, and entrepreneurship education makes it a standout among the 243 participating sites.
One of the most innovative aspects of Level Ground’s summer program is its focus on entrepreneurship. Students don’t just learn about business—they create real businesses through hands-on, project-based learning.
As one instructor explained to WBZ NewsRadio, students utilize English Language Arts skills to craft persuasive business pitches and apply mathematical concepts to understand the financial realities of building and sustaining a business. This practical, integrated approach prepares students for real-world challenges while reinforcing academic skills.
The media coverage of Level Ground MMA’s summer program highlights a powerful model for community-based education that extends far beyond traditional classroom walls. By combining physical training, academic learning, and workforce development, Level Ground demonstrates how community organizations can play a vital role in preparing young people for success.
The program’s emphasis on accessibility—offering free programming that would typically cost hundreds of dollars per month—ensures that opportunities for growth and development are available to all students, regardless of their family’s financial circumstances.
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