By JACQI LEYVA-HILL
Special to the NEWS
For years, Abel Fonseca has been a steady, positive presence in the lives of San Benito students through SBCISD’s after-school boxing program, which he founded several years ago.
Today, the beloved coach is facing a serious health battle, and the community he has long supported is rallying around him.
Fonseca started the boxing program after recognizing that many students needed a safe place to go after school.
“I saw a real need for kids to have a safe place after school—somewhere they could belong, build confidence, and learn discipline,” he said. “Boxing gave me those things growing up with my Grandfather Pete Trevino, and I wanted to pass that on.”
Over time, the program became about more than the sport alone.
“It’s been about mentorship, structure, and showing students that someone believes in them. Watching kids grow, not just as athletes but as people, has meant everything to me.”
Fonseca says his proudest accomplishments are not trophies but the growth he has seen in his students.
He recalls taking boxers to the World Championships in Kansas City two years in a row, where Santana Sanchez, a student at Ed Downs Elementary, advanced to the semifinals in a close match against a Canadian competitor.
He also proudly points to former students Ricardo Camacho and Eduardo Camacho, both of whom went on to become professional boxers.
While he has spent years building others up, Fonseca is now focused on his own recovery. As of Jan. 23, he has spent 56 days across four hospitals — Valley Baptist, MD Anderson, Methodist near MD Anderson, and now Methodist in Katy.
What began as shoulder pain led to a blood infection, gallbladder removal, pneumonia, and fluid around his lungs.
Doctors later discovered a serious heart condition after seeing a shadow on imaging. He underwent open-heart surgery and now has a mechanical heart valve, which requires lifelong blood thinners. His recovery has included complications, but he remains hopeful.
“My health journey has changed me in ways I never expected,” Fonseca shared. “It’s given me a deeper appreciation for life, family, and the time we’re given.”
He credits his wife for helping him through difficult medical decisions and for staying connected with their children through daily FaceTime calls.
Donations are being accepted through a GoFundMe organized by family and friends, as well as local SB Wings and chicken plate fundraisers, to support the Fonseca family during his recovery.
“The love and support from the San Benito community, and people from the RGV has been overwhelming in the best way,” he said. “Every prayer, donation, message, and kind word reminds me how blessed I am.”
“I’m truly grateful,” Fonseca said. “Your support isn’t just helping me recover—it’s giving my family and me strength and hope.”
1 comment
My wife and I met Abel in elementary school at Ed Downs San Benito.. he talked to us about letting my two sons join the after-school program for boxing we hesitated a little bit… Mr Fonseca helped us picture what good it would be for them to join boxing and he was right he was being a blessing to our family.. I saw how he worked with my sons yes he was patient with them he motivated them, he showed them how to be obedient and discipline.. my sons are Erasmo Sanchez and Santana Sanchez.. till this day both my sons have said Abel was and is a positive role model to them and to my wife and I.. keep fighting Abel.. we have so much love for you.. God bless you and your family