In Memory of Hector ‘Papa’ Roca

28 | November-December 2022

Hector “Papa” Roca 1940 - 2023

Legendary boxing trainer Hector Roca, fondly known as ‘Papa’ passed away after a recent illness. A fixture in the NYC boxing world, and beyond, his presence will be sorely missed.

Perhaps best summarizing his place in the boxing world were the words of WBC President Mauricio Sulaiman in a letter to Gleason’s owner, Bruce Silverglade.

Dear Bruce,

Boxing is a sport of blows, but nothing prepares us for the sledgehammer impact and its gnawing sadness, with the passing of such a GREAT man, friend, mentor, and teacher. Only one Hector Roca. There will never be another.

A pillar of Gleason’s has now gone, but what a lasting foundation impression Hector left on this World. A veritable mark of the man, that Hilary Swank, highlighted his brilliance in her Oscar-winning speech. His invaluable and insightful contribution to The Gleason’s Gym-total body workout for women. Twice cycling Olympian, Coach to thirteen world Champions. Greats Iran Barkley, Arturo Gatti, Regilio Tuur, and Buddy McGirt, implicitly trusted him for their meticulous preparations.

Hector`s journey from Panama to Gleason’s was a path of destiny, which brought GREAT Achievement. A marvelous, caring man who was so admired and adored. Respect like that can only be earned and gained through deeds and a person’s fundamental character, never given.

There is no way to describe, quantify or equate a loss like this adequately. On a personal level, Hector trained my son with the greatest care, dedication, and decency, which characterized him as the finest human.

Now we are left with the memories which form the lasting legacy of Hector Roca. How very, very lucky we are...that he passed our way. Now, as he`s laid to rest, he becomes a ship, passing in that good night. I kindly ask you to share this letter with his family and whomever you believe from Gleason’s, my dear friend. May he Rest In Peace and memory eternal.

Always Mauricio

28 | September - December 2020