Final answer:
Alfred goes to Mr. Donatelli's gym in "The Contender" to find a safe haven and pursue his passion for boxing. The gym provides him with discipline, confidence, and a supportive mentor who helps him navigate life's challenges.
Step-by-step explanation:
Alfred first goes to Mr. Donatelli's gym because the gym is a safe haven for him. In the novel "The Contender" by Robert Lipsyte, Alfred is dealing with personal issues and searching for a sense of purpose. Donatelli's gym provides Alfred with an opportunity to learn discipline, build self-confidence, and pursue his passion for boxing. By training at the gym, Alfred finds a supportive mentor in Mr. Donatelli who helps him navigate the challenges he faces both inside and outside the ring. Ultimately, going to the gym becomes a transformative experience for Alfred, shaping his character and defining his path in life.