OptionZero was founded in Syracuse, New York, with a clear mission: to create safe, supportive spaces where youth and adults from underserved communities can build confidence, resilience, and community connections through fitness and boxing. Our journey began in Syracuse and expanded to Tallahassee, Florida, where we offered structured training and mentorship to those who need it most.

In Syracuse, we’ve partnered with the Syracuse City School District for violence prevention efforts, providing conflict resolution and social-emotional learning programs. Additionally, our Head Coach, Curtis Chaplin, serves as the boxing coach at LeMoyne College, connecting college students with local youth mentorship opportunities.

Our Story

Why “OptionZero”?

The name OptionZero embodies our belief that when life presents tough choices, we must create a positive path forward—where giving up is never an option. Our philosophy encourages our members to embrace challenges, stay determined, and strive for growth—whether in the gym, at school, at work, or in life.

Our Mission

At OptionZero, our mission is to:

  • Build Confidence: Through fitness programs and boxing competitions.

  • Foster Resilience: Offering mentorship to help overcome challenges.

  • Strengthen Community: Creating inclusive spaces where everyone feels valued.

Our Impact

Since our inception, OptionZero has:

  • Empowered hundreds of youth and adults, with a focus on underserved communities.

  • Collaborated with the Syracuse City School District, enhancing conflict resolution skills and supporting violence prevention.

  • Led boxing programs at LeMoyne College, promoting community engagement and youth mentorship.

  • Expanded programs to Tallahassee, FL, impacting at-risk youth with mentorship and training.

Our Vision

Our vision is to:

  • Expand our reach to serve more individuals in Syracuse and beyond.

  • Foster partnerships with schools, organizations, and businesses to enhance community development.

  • Host live boxing events at Destiny USA, creating community engagement and inspiration.

Meet Our Team

  • Curtis Chaplin

    Chief Executive Officer & Head Coach:

    Curtis Chaplin is the CEO of OptionZero, Boxing Coach at LeMoyne College  and an education within Syracuse City School District. As a community leader and ex-amateur boxer, Curtis blends education, mentorship, and boxing to create safe, supportive spaces for youth and adults. His vision for OptionZero is to provide strength, discipline, and opportunity, making it a pillar of support and empowerment in the community.

  • Dominique Batiste

    Chief Operating Officer & Lead Group Fitness Instructor:

    Dominique Batiste is a strategic leader with experience at Eventbrite, Paramount+, and STARZ, bringing operational excellence and community-building expertise to OptionZero. As COO, she drives program success and organizational growth, while her role as Lead Group Fitness Instructor blends her passion for fitness with a talent for inspiring others to build strength, confidence, and resilience.

  • John Dates

    Personal Trainer:

    John Dates is a personal trainer with a focus on sports fitness and performance training. His expertise lies in strength conditioning, athletic development, and tailored fitness programs that help individuals of all skill levels reach their goals. At OptionZero, John combines his passion for fitness with a personalized approach, guiding members to build strength, endurance, and confidence.

  • Ezra Branch

    Youth Boxing Instructor (Apprentice)

    Ezra is a dedicated Youth Boxing Instructor at OptionZero and an active competitive boxer within our community. Currently pursuing a Biochemistry degree with a specialization in Biology at Onondaga Community College in Syracuse, he apprentices under Head Coach Curtis Chaplin. Ezra combines his academic background and boxing experience to mentor young athletes, fostering discipline, confidence, and resilience.

Future Team Members

Whether you are a beginner looking to get fit, a youth needing guidance, or a competitive athlete aiming for the top, OptionZero is here to support your journey.

We invite you to train, grow, and thrive with us—to become part of a community that believes in breaking barriers and building bonds.