I think we'll have four boxing for sure, maybe six. I'm just not real sure if they're ready yet. I like to see a kid in the gym for at least two months before his first match and then they'll go up against someone with relatively the same ring experience. There's only one way to get experience - get in the ring and get over the fear of being in the ring and in front of a crowd. |
I was no great boxer, but I just loved to get out there and box. The most important thing I want the kids to learn is to have dedication to their performance. Believe in your skills, hone those skills and never give up are also what I hope these kids will take away from their boxing experience. |
It's hard to find a tournament like that where there's a Novice division. Our kids can have the opportunity to fight against boxers from all over. That can open up a number of doors. |
My main goal is to maintain a club year after year. It's a healthy environment for kids and helps build self-confidence. Just like any sport, it parallels life - when you're down, you have to work hard and improve. Most people don't realize the amount of stamina it takes to box. It takes a rare kid to keep showing up practice after practice. I won't let them come in with the attitude that 'I'm going to beat someone up.' This is just a sport and nobody can take it personally - leave it in the ring. |
What they might lack in skills they make up for in heart. They each keep on coming back against tough opponents and want to learn to get better. Both Sean and Brady have great stamina and are beginning to bob and weave and counter punch much better. Sometimes you can take a kid like Brady who has natural talent and move him up to take on fighters with a little more experience. |