Boxing is alive and well here in the good ol’ U.S. of A. contrary to the perception of the majority of the population as well as the mainstream media. Financially, fighters are making more than they ever have in the history of the sport and pugs are crossing over into mainstream appeal with regularity. But we as fans should not be content to sit on our laurels without investing our interest into the future stars of the sweet science. I’m talking about local amateur shows. This past weekend was the Dallas Golden Gloves and the four day event played out in front of a packed ballroom with cheering so loud one might have mistaken it for a live professional fight. For the kids participating these shows are what it’s all about. The roar of the crowd, the praise they receive after the fight, the fact that they sheepishly stare at the provided ring card girls. It’s a touching moment and one of genuine sport far removed from the posturing and scandal of the professional ranks. To see the look of elation on a young kids face after going 3 hard rounds, that in his mind resembled Hagler-Hearns, be announced the winner is one of those moments that brings all who witness the act together is genuine happiness for the young pug. Warm fuzzies aside, local amateur shows also allow one to possibly witness the superstars of tomorrow go at it not for money, but for the pride of winning. Maxboxing has recently ran some stories on the amateur scene as told by former light heavyweight contender John “Iceman” Scully that I highly recommend as it is interesting to hear about superstars of the sport back in their amateur days. On a personal aside, I would like to congratulate Zach McDonald on his Golden Gloves victory in the Open 141 division. Good luck in the senior open next month.
Amateur Shows – Feeding Life Into The Sport
Posted by Tim Starks on Feb 13, 2008 02:50
