Since 1923 the Golden Gloves has been held for amateur boxers to showcase their skills. Golden Glove champions typically have gone on to fight in the Olympics or as professional boxers.
But this year may be the first year the NJ Golden Gloves doesn’t take place, as a result of sponsors pulling out and the committee not having enough funds to hold the tournament..
Lou Esa—former heavyweight KO artist and current trainer/manager of rising star and 2010 NJ Golden Gloves Champion Vinny O’Brien—is appalled at the fact the tournament may not take place this year, and has been focusing his efforts on raising the money needed to make it happen.
“This tournament isn’t boxing politics or anything else, it is only about the kids,” said Esa. “These kids train all year to get ready for this tournament, and for many it is a stepping stone as they move forward in the sport.”
Since hearing that the 2011 NJ Golden Gloves tournament may be cancelled, Esa has been getting in contact with local corporations as well as boxing companies in hopes he can raise enough money to ensure the tournament goes on.
“It’s not only about the fighting for these kids, but it’s about the camaraderie felt amongst the boxers and the contacts they meet that can help them down the line,” said Esa. “If the Golden Gloves doesn’t happen this year, it will be a grave injustice to the kids.”
For kids who don’t go on to the Olympics or turn professional, the Golden Gloves tournament instills a great work ethic in them and is a strong character builder.
“Being able to put ‘Golden Gloves Champion’ on their resume is a huge asset to the kids,” said Esa. “It shows potential employers that the kid has much discipline and isn’t afraid of working hard to reach his or her goals.”
“I currently train a couple kids from Final Round Boxing who have been working so hard to prepare or the tournament,” said Esa. “It will crush them if they aren’t given the chance to compete.”
If you are interested in helping Lou Esa out in his effort to keep the Golden Gloves tournament running this year, or are interested in becoming a sponsor, shoot him an email at lousvisions@hotmail.com.