Anthony
Fighter
When Anthony joined SBC in the 7th grade, the now-high school Junior was very different from the confident young man you'll see hitting the bags or the working the weight bench most days. Anthony, a middleweight fighter with two book fights and a dozen in-house fights to his credit, was overweight, shy, and in need of a place to train and thrive-- both physically and socially.
"It started as a good place to hang out," says Anthony of his early days at the club. From there, his interest in boxing evolved into the kind of dedication that shows results. "Before [the club] I was lazy. I wasn't really outgoing. I was overweight." Now five years on, he sees his membership at the club as a lifelong connection. "Over the years I've had to make priorities, and this has always been a top priority. I don't see that changing."
Anthony's success has garnered him not only self-respect, but the respect of his peers and trainers in the club. "He's one of the most dedicated kids we have here." says trainer and club President Bobby Covino. Meeting Anthony in the ring or around the club, one is impressed by his level of poise and self-possession, uncommon for someone of his years.
Anthony has reaped other rewards of training. He's achieved a high level of physical, which led to a successful on the high school football field in addition to the ring. The formerly overweight, shy middle-schooler now enjoys the pride that comes with competing as a multi-sport athlete. He credits the club and its trainers with helping him achieve this success.
Even as he enjoys his current successes, his attention is directed to future advancement. He's considering college possibilities, and hoping to establish himself as a general contractor and union member in the near future.
With all the club has meant to his development and success, he is enthusiastic when asked about what the club can do for others. For kids and adults unsure about coming down to train and box, he had this advice: "Don't think too much about it, just come down. I wasn't the kind of kid who think I'd be here five days a week. You don't have to immediately come down and get in the ring. You can just do the workout."
From there, he knows the positive environment and many benefits of the club will transform other lives as it has done for him.