By ReyFort OLY ‘76
SURREY, B.C. – Mendoza Boxing has earned Gold in the Boxing Gym category of the 2026 Surrey Now-Leader Readers’ Choice Awards, a milestone owner and head coach Oneal Mendoza is sharing with his team and community.
The published winners list names Mendoza Boxing as Gold recipient, followed by Ambition Boxing Fitness Club with Silver and Cave Athletics with Bronze.
“We are humbly a small family owned gym with a lot of heart,” Mendoza wrote on Facebook.
He thanked staff, members, athletes, sponsors, friends and family, expressing special appreciation for the community. He also acknowledged other gyms making a positive difference.
“It’s not competition, it’s community!” he wrote.
In a statement, Mendoza recognized the coaches, athletes and leaders whose experience and dedication help develop the next generation of boxers.
Michael Viloria, general manager and team captain, brings professional boxing experience and leadership. Program director Alvin Valle, an amateur boxer, coordinates programs and supports athlete development.
Naseem Bains heads the Mendoza Women’s Program. The club identifies her as president of Boxing Canada’s Women’s Committee, bringing leadership and advocacy to women’s boxing.
Advanced-level coaches Terrence Viloria, a professional boxer, and Anjelo Viloria, a former provincial champion, contribute competitive experience and technical instruction.
Iain Smalls coaches youth and adults, while adult coach Tyler Spare helps members develop boxing skills, fitness and confidence.
Cherri Icasiano handles administration and assists with coaching the women’s program. Amber Viloria, manager and head of the Mendoza Running Club, supports fitness, conditioning and athletic performance.
“Together, this team represents the strength of Mendoza Boxing Club: a combination of competitive experience, coaching knowledge, leadership, and a shared commitment to building athletes, developing champions, and creating opportunities for everyone who walks through our doors,” the statement reads.
The club’s philosophy centres on community, discipline and personal growth. Its programs welcome beginners learning boxing fundamentals alongside experienced athletes preparing for competition.
Offerings include youth boxing, women’s classes, conditioning and advanced instruction. The gym also teaches sport Arnis, introducing participants to Filipino martial arts.
Located at Unit 114, 8645 160 Street in Surrey, the club highlights its affiliation with Boxing BC and Boxing Canada.
The achievement also holds personal meaning for ReyFort Media publisher and former Philippine Olympic boxer Rey Fortaleza, a close friend of Mendoza.
For Mendoza and his team, the Gold award celebrates more than success in the ring. It honours the coaches, members, families and supporters who help make the gym a place to learn, grow and belong.
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