FIGHT NIGHT AND LEGACY
Can recreational boxing create a legacy of helping the community to grow? Consider the case of one University fraternity that for the last eight years hosted a non-sanctioned amateur boxing competition known as "Fight Night" that raises money for youth recreation programs in the community. The event is open to Greek and non-Greek students. Their boxing experience may vary from non-existent to competent novice, but their enthusiasm and the resulting fast-paced action brings the hundreds of cheering spectators to their feet. Fighters are matched by weight. The bouts go for three, 1 and 1/2 minute rounds. Regardless of the motivation for entering the contest, the student-athletes through their efforts will leave the community a little better than they found it.
Three students spent months training at a local boxing gym getting ready for this night. None had ever fought before in competition. On this night, the endless hours of training would be put to the test. As their trainers prepared the boxers, the butterflies that accompany any bout began to be noticed by all
With the gloves and headgear on, shadowboxing was all there was left to do until the fight was called. Each boxer worked to stay loose, and keep the focus that they would need for the soon-to-be-announced bouts. You are alone despite the clamor of the locker-room. In the background, noise of the crowd rises as the event starts.
Coaches work with the fighters in the minutes remaining before they will walk to the ring. The locker room reverberates with the sharp slap, slap, slap, of the left jab, right cross, left hook against the focus mitt. The coaches encourage the fighter, but know that their job is largely finished. They have instilled the lessons and methods. Now, each fighter to apply them. Win or lose, it all depends on how well this is done.
Waiting in the wings is the worst. You're next and your buddy is in the ring right now. The trainers continue the routine you have practiced hundreds of time in the gym. If the reactions aren't reflex by now, its probably too late to do anything about it. You try to keep your concentration but can't help but wonder how your buddy's fight is going. Your trainer won't let you see the fight, but there is no way to block out the reaction of the crowd to the fight. Its over, and it is now your turn.
The fight's over. Each of you won. In a few weeks, the proceeds from the event will make some kid's life a little easier. Thank you for a job well done. And God bless each of you.
If you have any comments on this page, please send them to me at oldbxr@mailcity.com