Boxing and boxing safety the subject at Rotary
By Shantelle Breaux
NEWS EDITOR
CROWLEY – The guest speakers at Tuesday’s meeting of the Crowley Rotary Club were Guy Cuccio and Arthur Scott, coaches with the Crowley Kiwanis Club youth boxing program.
Arthur Scott, a former boxer for the U. S. Army team during his time in the service, spoke about the new safety rules in effect in the sport. He stated that boxers are now divided by age as well as other criteria, and that each boxer is required to wear head protection, a mouthpiece and guards. He also said that studies have shown that the sport produces less injuries than other sports such as football and gymnastics, and that the number one priority of Crowley youth boxing is the safety of the fighters.
“It’s not worth a kid getting hurt,” said Scott.
The sport also gives the kids valuable life lessons, according to Scott. “You have to be able to accept losing just like you have to be able to accept winning.”
A demonstration was provided by three young fighters from the club, Floyd Baker, Jr., Antonio Jimenez and Malik Broussard, during which Scott made mention that each of the young people there credited boxing with keeping them out of trouble.
“Boxing builds character,” said Cuccio. A major goal of the program is to keep these kids off the streets, according to Cuccio. He stated that there are about 12 to 15 boys in the program who are registered with USA boxing and compete, but there are about 20 boys that are actually in and out of the gym.
Those who are eligible for Crowley Kiwanis boxing are those between the ages of eight and 36, and weigh at least 50 pounds. To attend a non-contact workout practice, there is no charge. To participate in contact workouts and compete in competitions, there is $50 per year registration and insurance fee. Males and females may join. Practices are held at the South Crowley Elementary School gym Monday through Thursday, from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m.
For more information, call Arthur Scott at 337-783-1461 or Guy Cuccio at 337-290-0249.