Alec’s dad was part of the Royal Elite Guard, and he’s been helping him with practice at home, which gives him an advantage that most of the other kids don’t have.  And Alec DOES take his training seriously.  He wants to make his dad proud.

You know who ISN’T making his dad proud?  The guy in the second-to-last panel.  You probably remember him as one of the bullies from when Brooke talked about her past.  He’s actually the trainer’s son, and none-too-thrilled that his old man is doting on a person he can’t stand.