In a sport where bloody noses and bruised faces are a natural occurrence, the phrase “safety first” does not often enter into the boxing conversation.
Unless you are talking about the world of amateur boxing, where “safety first” is not only suggested, it is mandated.
“Amateur boxing referees are interventionists, rather than facilitator’s of pain,” said Matt Ruggero, who has been director of the boxing program at Archimedes Academy in the Bronx for 10 years. “We try to avoid knockouts.”
Ruggero said that there is a stark difference in amateur boxing when compared to the professional ranks. For one, amateur boxing focuses more on technique than physical punishment.
“There is an emphasis on safety, discipline and values with the amateurs,” said Ruggero, whose school is hosting the Golden Gloves on Thursday, February 4 as part of a fundraiser benefiting the school’s boxing program. “In my program, we don’t teach them to fight. They learn a skill, like martial arts.”
To date, the New York City Public Schools System is the only one in the country to offer an amateur boxing program to grades 6-12. According to Ruggero, youth boxing has shown measurable success in his school and others that offer it.
“The kids display less aggression, greater self confidence and are more receptive to learning,” he said. “We’ve been in operation for over a decade providing a healthy, safe sports program and positive environment for children.”
Ruggero’s program integrates academics into the physicality of boxing. Students learn about the mechanics of the sport with the help of lectures and textbooks in a rigorous syllabus that challenges both mind and body.
“Really it gives children an outlet for their energy,” he said. “And we also talk to them about important issues outside the lines of the boxing community.”
Parents interested in enrolling their kids into programs similar to the one at Archimedes are encouraged to visit www.usametroboxing.com. There, they call search by borough for boxing programs in their area.
