The gloves are laced. The lights are on. The tradition continues.
The 94th Annual Mission Bouts return to the Aquinas Institute of Rochester on Friday, March 6, 2026, inside the Wegman-Napier Gymnasium, and it promises to be a night our community won’t want to miss. Doors open at 6:00 p.m. with the first bout beginning at 7:00 p.m. Tickets will be available at the door.
The AQ Boxing Team is offering a complimentary ticket to all Aquinas alumni boxers for the 94th Mission Bouts. Alumni can scan the QR code featured on the back cover of the latest Landmark Magazine to reserve their ticket.
A New Era of Aquinas Boxing
This year marks an exciting new chapter for the Richard A. Corbett ’56 Boxing Program. After more than 45 years of leadership, mentorship, and legacy-building, Coach Dom Arioli ’73 has stepped down as head coach, though he remains actively involved in the program.
Now leading Aquinas Boxing are two proud alumni: Josh Leonardo ’10 and Henry Kaester ’09. Both were mentored by Coach Dom and are deeply committed to preserving the discipline, brotherhood, and tradition that define Aquinas Boxing.
“We want to introduce kids not only to the sport of boxing, but to the family that is Aquinas Boxing,” says Henry. “Our goal is to carry forward the same passion Dom poured into this program and use it to help these athletes become the best versions of themselves.”
Josh echoes that sentiment: “Boxing is a metaphor for life. You’re going to get hit. You can’t avoid failure, disappointment, or heartbreak. Getting hit doesn’t mean you lose — staying down does.”
More Than a Sport
The Aquinas Boxing Program is about far more than what happens inside the ring. Each practice ends with a student selecting a historical boxing quote for reflection, reinforcing the connection between the sport’s rich heritage and personal growth.
The Aquinas Mission Bouts, established in 1932, every March, the AQ community gathers for this exceptional event where our students, both young men and women, showcase their skills and dedication. The Mission Bouts epitomize the true spirit of sacrifice and giving, with proceeds supporting the important mission work of the Basilian Fathers in Colombia and Mexico. This event conveys an important message: through our efforts to help others, we also receive much in return.
The Only Private School in the Country with a Boxing Program
The Aquinas Institute of Rochester is proud to be the only private school in the United States with a boxing program. That distinction speaks volumes about who we are as a school: bold, tradition-rich, and mission-driven.
For 94 years, Mission Bouts has brought together students, alumni, families, and friends for an unforgettable night in support of our student-athletes and the Aquinas mission.
Join Us!
Whether you’re an alum, current family, prospective student, or community member, Mission Bouts is an incredible way to experience the spirit of Aquinas.
- Friday, March 6, 2026
- Doors Open: 6:30 p.m.
- First Bout: 7:00 p.m.
- Aquinas Institute of Rochester: Wegman-Napier Gymnasium
For more information on the Aquinas Mission Bouts and the Aquinas Boxing Program, CLICK HERE