CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) — Young boxers in Chicago showed off their skills at Daley Plaza Wednesday in an effort to show the public what activities are available to youth.
Tyelle Coleman was one of several young boxers who stepped into the ring at the Chicago Park District's Citywide Boxing Showcase. The eighth grader said being able to show off his talent reminds him of how far he's come.
“I like how when I look at myself — at first how I was then — to how I am now, I like the way Improved,” he said. “I can protect myself.”
The Daley Plaza event was one of more than 20 showcases that will feature emerging athletes through November.
Chicago Park District boxing instructor Calvin Richardson said the goal of the showcases is to show the public that the park district has outlets for young people to safely express themselves.
"Boxing is one of those sports where you lose, you go back to the drawing board and strategize,” he said. “That's what a lot of the youth in Chicago need to learn: that violence is not at the end of a loss. You go back and strategize how to win."
Jeffrey Mason, another park district instructor, said the program gives Chicago’s youth something positive and active to do.
That seems to have been the case for 9-year-old Noel, who took home a first place trophy. He said boxing has given him joy.
"I'm committed now,” Noel said. “I've never liked a sport like this. I love it"
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