Cranbrook boxers will surprise at Winter Games

Tom White, coach of the Cranbrook Eagles Boxing Club, likes the chances for his charges in the BC Winter Games.  He thinks boxers from other zones will find the Cranbrook boys tough competitors.  "They are in for a big surprise; Alex Hall hits like a freight train. In fact, we have had to tone him down."  Colin Richmond and Joel Ray will give good accounts of themselves as well.  White says that both fighters "have come along very well."

Cranbrook and boxing have a long history, and the sport is enjoying a bit of a local renaissance. White says that he will have 12 boxers registered by the end of February and another 40 work out with the club.  In fact, he has had to put a cap on membership.  When asked what the attraction is, he says that "teaching confidence is absolutely number one," but he also point out that boxing teaches "humbleness." Boxers learn that there is always someone better, "but with hard work, anything is possible."  He also talks about the importance of learning to set goals.  "First, I want to win my first fight; then I want to win my first tournament, and so forth."

When asked what he like best about coaching, White says, "This may sound corny, but I want to give something back." He credits boxing for giving him focus and respect, especially from his coaches, Mike Moore and Mickey Sims. The ability to make a connection with troubled youth is very rewarding as well, White says.  He closes with a reminder that Garth Rizzuto has been "huge" in the development of the sport both locally and provincially, and White is excited that Rizzuto will be starting a club in Fernie.