BOXING - Revision history

Randylyon at 19:30, 8 March 2025

2025-03-08T19:30:03Z

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	In 1991 the city council passed an ordinance banning elimination-boxing competitions in the city. The ordinance followed a severe head injury to Dan Vondran, a boxer, who was then 29 years old. (10)		In 1991 the city council passed an ordinance banning elimination-boxing competitions in the city. The ordinance followed a severe head injury to Dan Vondran, a boxer, who was then 29 years old. (10)

	Recent boxing history in Dubuque included [[LINDECKER, Scott\|Scott LINDECKER]], [[RUSK, Tom\|Tom RUSK]], and Pat Swan, the only professional boxer in Dubuque in 1997 with a record of fifteen wins and only three losses. Pete Henkels, Dave Hess, and Fran ~~Bechen~~ were the only active state boxing officials from Dubuque. Henkels worked as a judge for amateur boxing matches; Hess was a supervisor of the Iowa Boxing Association and was an active judge in the NABF, USBA, WBO, and the IBC.		Recent boxing history in Dubuque included [[LINDECKER, Scott\|Scott LINDECKER]], [[RUSK, Tom\|Tom RUSK]], and Pat Swan, the only professional boxer in Dubuque in 1997 with a record of fifteen wins and only three losses. Pete Henkels, Dave Hess, and [[BECHEN, Fran\|Fran BECHEN]] were the only active state boxing officials from Dubuque. Henkels worked as a judge for amateur boxing matches; Hess was a supervisor of the Iowa Boxing Association and was an active judge in the NABF, USBA, WBO, and the IBC.

	In 1999 Julius Pruitt, a native of Freeport, Illinois and a boxing fan moved to Dubuque. After about six months of participating in training and a 3-1 record in the ring, he was looking for a club in Dubuque but found none. He eventually set up his own gym and by 2000 had earned his Iowa amateur boxing license. He then let officials with the Iowa Amateur Boxing Association know that he was available for a match. (11)		In 1999 Julius Pruitt, a native of Freeport, Illinois and a boxing fan moved to Dubuque. After about six months of participating in training and a 3-1 record in the ring, he was looking for a club in Dubuque but found none. He eventually set up his own gym and by 2000 had earned his Iowa amateur boxing license. He then let officials with the Iowa Amateur Boxing Association know that he was available for a match. (11)

Randylyon at 16:58, 16 May 2020

2020-05-16T16:58:52Z

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	Rapids. Dakota won a good match with an elite boxer from		Rapids. Dakota won a good match with an elite boxer from
	the 'Circle of Discipline' in Minneapolis, an organization with		the 'Circle of Discipline' in Minneapolis, an organization with
	goals similar to those of the 'Dream Center'.		goals similar to those of the 'Dream Center'. It occurred on the
	~~Some interesting side notes - this past weekend also was~~ the		75th Anniversary of the Flag Raising at Iwo Jima. Coach Rob
	75th Anniversary of the Flag Raising at Iwo Jima, Coach Rob		is a former Marine who served in the Middle East, and
	is a former Marine who served in the Middle East, and ~~old~~
	Coach Rich boxed at the Vet's Memorial in 1962 when he was 17.		Coach Rich boxed at the Vet's Memorial in 1962 when he was 17.
	I like the quote - it asks that we serve our country in any		I like the quote - it asks that we serve our country in any
	way we can - "Our finest tribute to their valor will be the quality		way we can - "Our finest tribute to their valor will be the quality
	of our own lives".		of our own lives". Coach Rich.
	Coach Rich
	Photo courtesy; Richard "Dick' Vorwald]]In 2015 a pilot boxing program was moved from the Dubuque Community Y to the [[DUBUQUE DREAM CENTER]]. Richard Vorwald and Pete Eischeid with the assistance of such figures as [[BECHEN, Fran\|Fran BECHEN]] hoped to use the boxing program to develop discipline and a good work ethic in those participating. (19)		Photo courtesy; Richard "Dick' Vorwald]]In 2015 a pilot boxing program was moved from the Dubuque Community Y to the [[DUBUQUE DREAM CENTER]]. Richard Vorwald and Pete Eischeid with the assistance of such figures as [[BECHEN, Fran\|Fran BECHEN]] hoped to use the boxing program to develop discipline and a good work ethic in those participating. (19)

Randylyon at 16:55, 16 May 2020

2020-05-16T16:55:40Z

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	[[Image:dreamc.png\|left\|thumb\|250px\|'Old time boxer Fran Bechen with Dream Center boxer Dakota Carner--keeping a tradition alive.' Photo and caption courtesy: Richard Vorwald. Picture taken at the 'Ringside Tournament.']]		[[Image:dreamc.png\|left\|thumb\|250px\|'Old time boxer Fran Bechen with Dream Center boxer Dakota Carner--keeping a tradition alive.' Photo and caption courtesy: Richard Vorwald. Picture taken at the 'Ringside Tournament.']]
	[[Image:dream2.jpg\|left\|thumb\|250px\|~~Dream Center boxer~~ Dakota ~~Carner won his Feb 22, 2020 bout at Veterans~~ Memorial ~~Stadium~~ in Cedar Rapids. ~~This was~~ the ~~same~~ weekend as the 75th Anniversary of the ~~flag raising on~~ Iwo Jima. Coach Rob ~~was on~~ the ~~Marine Boxing Team~~ and Coach Rich ~~an Air Force vet~~ boxed ~~there~~ in 1962. Photo courtesy; Richard "Dick' Vorwald]]In 2015 a pilot boxing program was moved from the Dubuque Community Y to the [[DUBUQUE DREAM CENTER]]. Richard Vorwald and Pete Eischeid with the assistance of such figures as [[BECHEN, Fran\|Fran BECHEN]] hoped to use the boxing program to develop discipline and a good work ethic in those participating. (19)		[[Image:dream2.jpg\|left\|thumb\|250px\| Photo of Dakota outside the Veteran's Memorial in Cedar
			Rapids. Dakota won a good match with an elite boxer from
			the 'Circle of Discipline' in Minneapolis, an organization with
			goals similar to those of the 'Dream Center'.
			Some interesting side notes - this past weekend also was the
			75th Anniversary of the Flag Raising at Iwo Jima, Coach Rob
			is a former Marine who served in the Middle East, and old
			Coach Rich boxed at the Vet's Memorial in 1962 when he was 17.
			I like the quote - it asks that we serve our country in any
			way we can - "Our finest tribute to their valor will be the quality
			of our own lives".
			Coach Rich
			Photo courtesy; Richard "Dick' Vorwald]]In 2015 a pilot boxing program was moved from the Dubuque Community Y to the [[DUBUQUE DREAM CENTER]]. Richard Vorwald and Pete Eischeid with the assistance of such figures as [[BECHEN, Fran\|Fran BECHEN]] hoped to use the boxing program to develop discipline and a good work ethic in those participating. (19)

Randylyon at 16:53, 16 May 2020

2020-05-16T16:53:04Z

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	The event was popular with nearly five hundred spectators. The fighters represented eight clubs based in Iowa and Wisconsin. Three clubs did not attend because of weather and a fourth did not have the proper credentials for their fighters. During the intermission, two dozen boxers from Dubuque's past were introduced. These included Mark Burds who coached teams from 1961-1984. He was presented a plaque for his dedication to the sport. (17) Amateur boxing included competitors ranging in age from 8 to 35. Matched by ability in a dozen weight classes, the fighters had to wear head gear and gloves of a size to improve safety. (18)		The event was popular with nearly five hundred spectators. The fighters represented eight clubs based in Iowa and Wisconsin. Three clubs did not attend because of weather and a fourth did not have the proper credentials for their fighters. During the intermission, two dozen boxers from Dubuque's past were introduced. These included Mark Burds who coached teams from 1961-1984. He was presented a plaque for his dedication to the sport. (17) Amateur boxing included competitors ranging in age from 8 to 35. Matched by ability in a dozen weight classes, the fighters had to wear head gear and gloves of a size to improve safety. (18)

	[[Image:dreamc.png\|left\|thumb\|250px\|'Old time boxer Fran Bechen with Dream Center boxer Dakota Carner--keeping a tradition alive.' Photo and caption courtesy: Richard Vorwald. Picture taken at the 'Ringside Tournament.']]In 2015 a pilot boxing program was moved from the Dubuque Community Y to the [[DUBUQUE DREAM CENTER]]. Richard Vorwald and Pete Eischeid with the assistance of such figures as [[BECHEN, Fran\|Fran BECHEN]] hoped to use the boxing program to develop discipline and a good work ethic in those participating. (19)		[[Image:dreamc.png\|left\|thumb\|250px\|'Old time boxer Fran Bechen with Dream Center boxer Dakota Carner--keeping a tradition alive.' Photo and caption courtesy: Richard Vorwald. Picture taken at the 'Ringside Tournament.']]
			[[Image:dream2.jpg\|left\|thumb\|250px\|Dream Center boxer Dakota Carner won his Feb 22, 2020 bout at Veterans Memorial Stadium in Cedar Rapids. This was the same weekend as the 75th Anniversary of the flag raising on Iwo Jima. Coach Rob was on the Marine Boxing Team and Coach Rich an Air Force vet boxed there in 1962. Photo courtesy; Richard "Dick' Vorwald]]In 2015 a pilot boxing program was moved from the Dubuque Community Y to the [[DUBUQUE DREAM CENTER]]. Richard Vorwald and Pete Eischeid with the assistance of such figures as [[BECHEN, Fran\|Fran BECHEN]] hoped to use the boxing program to develop discipline and a good work ethic in those participating. (19)

Randylyon at 17:02, 11 August 2019

2019-08-11T17:02:54Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 17:02, 11 August 2019
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	The event was popular with nearly five hundred spectators. The fighters represented eight clubs based in Iowa and Wisconsin. Three clubs did not attend because of weather and a fourth did not have the proper credentials for their fighters. During the intermission, two dozen boxers from Dubuque's past were introduced. These included Mark Burds who coached teams from 1961-1984. He was presented a plaque for his dedication to the sport. (17) Amateur boxing included competitors ranging in age from 8 to 35. Matched by ability in a dozen weight classes, the fighters had to wear head gear and gloves of a size to improve safety. (18)		The event was popular with nearly five hundred spectators. The fighters represented eight clubs based in Iowa and Wisconsin. Three clubs did not attend because of weather and a fourth did not have the proper credentials for their fighters. During the intermission, two dozen boxers from Dubuque's past were introduced. These included Mark Burds who coached teams from 1961-1984. He was presented a plaque for his dedication to the sport. (17) Amateur boxing included competitors ranging in age from 8 to 35. Matched by ability in a dozen weight classes, the fighters had to wear head gear and gloves of a size to improve safety. (18)

	[[Image:dreamc.png\|left\|thumb\|250px\|'Old time boxer Fran Bechen with Dream Center boxer Dakota ~~Craner~~--keeping a tradition alive.' Photo and caption courtesy: Richard Vorwald]]In 2015 a pilot boxing program was moved from the Dubuque Community Y to the [[DUBUQUE DREAM CENTER]]. Richard Vorwald and Pete Eischeid with the assistance of such figures as [[BECHEN, Fran\|Fran BECHEN]] hoped to use the boxing program to develop discipline and a good work ethic in those participating. (19)		[[Image:dreamc.png\|left\|thumb\|250px\|'Old time boxer Fran Bechen with Dream Center boxer Dakota Carner--keeping a tradition alive.' Photo and caption courtesy: Richard Vorwald. Picture taken at the 'Ringside Tournament.']]In 2015 a pilot boxing program was moved from the Dubuque Community Y to the [[DUBUQUE DREAM CENTER]]. Richard Vorwald and Pete Eischeid with the assistance of such figures as [[BECHEN, Fran\|Fran BECHEN]] hoped to use the boxing program to develop discipline and a good work ethic in those participating. (19)

	The criticism of boxing is decades long. In 1984 the American Academy of Pediatrics stated that "simple changes in rules and medial supervision and increased awareness of the dangers of boxing are not enough" to protect children and young adults. The '''Journal of the American Medical Association''' in 1995 estimates that chronic brain damage as indicated by dementia, memory loss, slurred speech, tremor and abnormal gait was seen in 10%-15% of professional boxers. It went on to state,"Evidence that boxing produces irreversible brain damage is now as indisputable as the link between cigarette smoking and lung cancer." Neurologists have stated that even when a boxer does not lose consciousness, repeated blows to his head can have an accumulative, destructive effect on his brain. (20)

	---		---
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	19. Piper, Andy, "Boxing Gets a Bounce," ''Telegraph Herald,'' April 16, 2015, p. 9		19. Piper, Andy, "Boxing Gets a Bounce," ''Telegraph Herald,'' April 16, 2015, p. 9

	~~20. Beck, Joan, "Boxing Cannot be Tolerated," (editorial), ''Telegraph Herald'', March 8, 1995, p. 4~~

	[[Category: Athletics-Boxing]]		[[Category: Athletics-Boxing]]

Randylyon at 23:15, 7 August 2019

2019-08-07T23:15:42Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 23:15, 7 August 2019
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	The event was popular with nearly five hundred spectators. The fighters represented eight clubs based in Iowa and Wisconsin. Three clubs did not attend because of weather and a fourth did not have the proper credentials for their fighters. During the intermission, two dozen boxers from Dubuque's past were introduced. These included Mark Burds who coached teams from 1961-1984. He was presented a plaque for his dedication to the sport. (17) Amateur boxing included competitors ranging in age from 8 to 35. Matched by ability in a dozen weight classes, the fighters had to wear head gear and gloves of a size to improve safety. (18)		The event was popular with nearly five hundred spectators. The fighters represented eight clubs based in Iowa and Wisconsin. Three clubs did not attend because of weather and a fourth did not have the proper credentials for their fighters. During the intermission, two dozen boxers from Dubuque's past were introduced. These included Mark Burds who coached teams from 1961-1984. He was presented a plaque for his dedication to the sport. (17) Amateur boxing included competitors ranging in age from 8 to 35. Matched by ability in a dozen weight classes, the fighters had to wear head gear and gloves of a size to improve safety. (18)

	[[Image:dreamc.png\|left\|thumb\|250px\|'Old time boxer Fran Bechen with Dream Center boxer Dakota ~~Cramer~~--keeping a tradition alive.' Photo and caption courtesy: Richard Vorwald]]In 2015 a pilot boxing program was moved from the Dubuque Community Y to the [[DUBUQUE DREAM CENTER]]. Richard Vorwald and Pete Eischeid with the assistance of such figures as [[BECHEN, Fran\|Fran BECHEN]] hoped to use the boxing program to develop discipline and a good work ethic in those participating. (19)		[[Image:dreamc.png\|left\|thumb\|250px\|'Old time boxer Fran Bechen with Dream Center boxer Dakota Craner--keeping a tradition alive.' Photo and caption courtesy: Richard Vorwald]]In 2015 a pilot boxing program was moved from the Dubuque Community Y to the [[DUBUQUE DREAM CENTER]]. Richard Vorwald and Pete Eischeid with the assistance of such figures as [[BECHEN, Fran\|Fran BECHEN]] hoped to use the boxing program to develop discipline and a good work ethic in those participating. (19)

	The criticism of boxing is decades long. In 1984 the American Academy of Pediatrics stated that "simple changes in rules and medial supervision and increased awareness of the dangers of boxing are not enough" to protect children and young adults. The '''Journal of the American Medical Association''' in 1995 estimates that chronic brain damage as indicated by dementia, memory loss, slurred speech, tremor and abnormal gait was seen in 10%-15% of professional boxers. It went on to state,"Evidence that boxing produces irreversible brain damage is now as indisputable as the link between cigarette smoking and lung cancer." Neurologists have stated that even when a boxer does not lose consciousness, repeated blows to his head can have an accumulative, destructive effect on his brain. (20)		The criticism of boxing is decades long. In 1984 the American Academy of Pediatrics stated that "simple changes in rules and medial supervision and increased awareness of the dangers of boxing are not enough" to protect children and young adults. The '''Journal of the American Medical Association''' in 1995 estimates that chronic brain damage as indicated by dementia, memory loss, slurred speech, tremor and abnormal gait was seen in 10%-15% of professional boxers. It went on to state,"Evidence that boxing produces irreversible brain damage is now as indisputable as the link between cigarette smoking and lung cancer." Neurologists have stated that even when a boxer does not lose consciousness, repeated blows to his head can have an accumulative, destructive effect on his brain. (20)

Randylyon at 23:12, 7 August 2019

2019-08-07T23:12:06Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 23:12, 7 August 2019
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	The event was popular with nearly five hundred spectators. The fighters represented eight clubs based in Iowa and Wisconsin. Three clubs did not attend because of weather and a fourth did not have the proper credentials for their fighters. During the intermission, two dozen boxers from Dubuque's past were introduced. These included Mark Burds who coached teams from 1961-1984. He was presented a plaque for his dedication to the sport. (17) Amateur boxing included competitors ranging in age from 8 to 35. Matched by ability in a dozen weight classes, the fighters had to wear head gear and gloves of a size to improve safety. (18)		The event was popular with nearly five hundred spectators. The fighters represented eight clubs based in Iowa and Wisconsin. Three clubs did not attend because of weather and a fourth did not have the proper credentials for their fighters. During the intermission, two dozen boxers from Dubuque's past were introduced. These included Mark Burds who coached teams from 1961-1984. He was presented a plaque for his dedication to the sport. (17) Amateur boxing included competitors ranging in age from 8 to 35. Matched by ability in a dozen weight classes, the fighters had to wear head gear and gloves of a size to improve safety. (18)

	[[Image:dreamc.png\|left\|thumb\|250px\|'Old time boxer Fran Bechen with Dream Center ~~Boxer~~ Dakota Cramer--keeping a tradition alive.' Photo and caption courtesy: Richard Vorwald]]In 2015 a pilot boxing program was moved from the Dubuque Community Y to the [[DUBUQUE DREAM CENTER]]. Richard Vorwald and Pete Eischeid with the assistance of such figures as [[BECHEN, Fran\|Fran BECHEN]] hoped to use the boxing program to develop discipline and a good work ethic in those participating. (19)		[[Image:dreamc.png\|left\|thumb\|250px\|'Old time boxer Fran Bechen with Dream Center boxer Dakota Cramer--keeping a tradition alive.' Photo and caption courtesy: Richard Vorwald]]In 2015 a pilot boxing program was moved from the Dubuque Community Y to the [[DUBUQUE DREAM CENTER]]. Richard Vorwald and Pete Eischeid with the assistance of such figures as [[BECHEN, Fran\|Fran BECHEN]] hoped to use the boxing program to develop discipline and a good work ethic in those participating. (19)

	The criticism of boxing is decades long. In 1984 the American Academy of Pediatrics stated that "simple changes in rules and medial supervision and increased awareness of the dangers of boxing are not enough" to protect children and young adults. The '''Journal of the American Medical Association''' in 1995 estimates that chronic brain damage as indicated by dementia, memory loss, slurred speech, tremor and abnormal gait was seen in 10%-15% of professional boxers. It went on to state,"Evidence that boxing produces irreversible brain damage is now as indisputable as the link between cigarette smoking and lung cancer." Neurologists have stated that even when a boxer does not lose consciousness, repeated blows to his head can have an accumulative, destructive effect on his brain. (20)		The criticism of boxing is decades long. In 1984 the American Academy of Pediatrics stated that "simple changes in rules and medial supervision and increased awareness of the dangers of boxing are not enough" to protect children and young adults. The '''Journal of the American Medical Association''' in 1995 estimates that chronic brain damage as indicated by dementia, memory loss, slurred speech, tremor and abnormal gait was seen in 10%-15% of professional boxers. It went on to state,"Evidence that boxing produces irreversible brain damage is now as indisputable as the link between cigarette smoking and lung cancer." Neurologists have stated that even when a boxer does not lose consciousness, repeated blows to his head can have an accumulative, destructive effect on his brain. (20)

Randylyon at 23:11, 7 August 2019

2019-08-07T23:11:40Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 23:11, 7 August 2019
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	The event was popular with nearly five hundred spectators. The fighters represented eight clubs based in Iowa and Wisconsin. Three clubs did not attend because of weather and a fourth did not have the proper credentials for their fighters. During the intermission, two dozen boxers from Dubuque's past were introduced. These included Mark Burds who coached teams from 1961-1984. He was presented a plaque for his dedication to the sport. (17) Amateur boxing included competitors ranging in age from 8 to 35. Matched by ability in a dozen weight classes, the fighters had to wear head gear and gloves of a size to improve safety. (18)		The event was popular with nearly five hundred spectators. The fighters represented eight clubs based in Iowa and Wisconsin. Three clubs did not attend because of weather and a fourth did not have the proper credentials for their fighters. During the intermission, two dozen boxers from Dubuque's past were introduced. These included Mark Burds who coached teams from 1961-1984. He was presented a plaque for his dedication to the sport. (17) Amateur boxing included competitors ranging in age from 8 to 35. Matched by ability in a dozen weight classes, the fighters had to wear head gear and gloves of a size to improve safety. (18)

	In 2015 a pilot boxing program was moved from the Dubuque Community Y to the [[DUBUQUE DREAM CENTER]]. Richard Vorwald with the assistance of such figures as [[BECHEN, Fran\|Fran BECHEN]] hoped to use the boxing program to develop discipline and a good work ethic in those participating. (19)		[[Image:dreamc.png\|left\|thumb\|250px\|'Old time boxer Fran Bechen with Dream Center Boxer Dakota Cramer--keeping a tradition alive.' Photo and caption courtesy: Richard Vorwald]]In 2015 a pilot boxing program was moved from the Dubuque Community Y to the [[DUBUQUE DREAM CENTER]]. Richard Vorwald and Pete Eischeid with the assistance of such figures as [[BECHEN, Fran\|Fran BECHEN]] hoped to use the boxing program to develop discipline and a good work ethic in those participating. (19)

	The criticism of boxing is decades long. In 1984 the American Academy of Pediatrics stated that "simple changes in rules and medial supervision and increased awareness of the dangers of boxing are not enough" to protect children and young adults. The '''Journal of the American Medical Association''' in 1995 estimates that chronic brain damage as indicated by dementia, memory loss, slurred speech, tremor and abnormal gait was seen in 10%-15% of professional boxers. It went on to state,"Evidence that boxing produces irreversible brain damage is now as indisputable as the link between cigarette smoking and lung cancer." Neurologists have stated that even when a boxer does not lose consciousness, repeated blows to his head can have an accumulative, destructive effect on his brain. (20)		The criticism of boxing is decades long. In 1984 the American Academy of Pediatrics stated that "simple changes in rules and medial supervision and increased awareness of the dangers of boxing are not enough" to protect children and young adults. The '''Journal of the American Medical Association''' in 1995 estimates that chronic brain damage as indicated by dementia, memory loss, slurred speech, tremor and abnormal gait was seen in 10%-15% of professional boxers. It went on to state,"Evidence that boxing produces irreversible brain damage is now as indisputable as the link between cigarette smoking and lung cancer." Neurologists have stated that even when a boxer does not lose consciousness, repeated blows to his head can have an accumulative, destructive effect on his brain. (20)

Randylyon at 19:54, 20 July 2019

2019-07-20T19:54:07Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 19:54, 20 July 2019
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	The event was popular with nearly five hundred spectators. The fighters represented eight clubs based in Iowa and Wisconsin. Three clubs did not attend because of weather and a fourth did not have the proper credentials for their fighters. During the intermission, two dozen boxers from Dubuque's past were introduced. These included Mark Burds who coached teams from 1961-1984. He was presented a plaque for his dedication to the sport. (17) Amateur boxing included competitors ranging in age from 8 to 35. Matched by ability in a dozen weight classes, the fighters had to wear head gear and gloves of a size to improve safety. (18)		The event was popular with nearly five hundred spectators. The fighters represented eight clubs based in Iowa and Wisconsin. Three clubs did not attend because of weather and a fourth did not have the proper credentials for their fighters. During the intermission, two dozen boxers from Dubuque's past were introduced. These included Mark Burds who coached teams from 1961-1984. He was presented a plaque for his dedication to the sport. (17) Amateur boxing included competitors ranging in age from 8 to 35. Matched by ability in a dozen weight classes, the fighters had to wear head gear and gloves of a size to improve safety. (18)

	In 2015 a pilot boxing program was moved from the Dubuque Community Y to the [[DUBUQUE DREAM CENTER]]. ~~Art~~ Vorwald with the assistance of such figures as [[BECHEN, Fran\|Fran BECHEN]] hoped to use the boxing program to develop discipline and a good work ethic in those participating. (19)		In 2015 a pilot boxing program was moved from the Dubuque Community Y to the [[DUBUQUE DREAM CENTER]]. Richard Vorwald with the assistance of such figures as [[BECHEN, Fran\|Fran BECHEN]] hoped to use the boxing program to develop discipline and a good work ethic in those participating. (19)

	The criticism of boxing is decades long. In 1984 the American Academy of Pediatrics stated that "simple changes in rules and medial supervision and increased awareness of the dangers of boxing are not enough" to protect children and young adults. The '''Journal of the American Medical Association''' in 1995 estimates that chronic brain damage as indicated by dementia, memory loss, slurred speech, tremor and abnormal gait was seen in 10%-15% of professional boxers. It went on to state,"Evidence that boxing produces irreversible brain damage is now as indisputable as the link between cigarette smoking and lung cancer." Neurologists have stated that even when a boxer does not lose consciousness, repeated blows to his head can have an accumulative, destructive effect on his brain. (20)		The criticism of boxing is decades long. In 1984 the American Academy of Pediatrics stated that "simple changes in rules and medial supervision and increased awareness of the dangers of boxing are not enough" to protect children and young adults. The '''Journal of the American Medical Association''' in 1995 estimates that chronic brain damage as indicated by dementia, memory loss, slurred speech, tremor and abnormal gait was seen in 10%-15% of professional boxers. It went on to state,"Evidence that boxing produces irreversible brain damage is now as indisputable as the link between cigarette smoking and lung cancer." Neurologists have stated that even when a boxer does not lose consciousness, repeated blows to his head can have an accumulative, destructive effect on his brain. (20)

Randylyon at 02:43, 12 November 2018

2018-11-12T02:43:50Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 02:43, 12 November 2018
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	C.Y.O. boxing matches brought many fighters to public attention. General admission seats cost twenty-five cents with reserved seating costing forty cents. Children were admitted for fifteen cents. A typical evening of sixteen bouts--each three rounds--began with the first bell at 8:00 p.m.		C.Y.O. boxing matches brought many fighters to public attention. General admission seats cost twenty-five cents with reserved seating costing forty cents. Children were admitted for fifteen cents. A typical evening of sixteen bouts--each three rounds--began with the first bell at 8:00 p.m.

	[[WORLD WAR I]] brought many changes to boxing. For over 200 years, boxing had followed the Queensbury rules. This was not aggressive enough for the military which put an emphasis on aggressiveness. Army rules provided for two judges on either side of the ring and a referee in the ring. At the end of three rounds, each two minutes in length, the judges declared the winner. If they did not agree, the referee ~~decides~~. Points were awarded for direct clean hits with the knuckle-side of the glove of either hand on the front or sides of the head or body above the belt. If the two contestants tied on the number of points, the winner was decided by the fighter who displayed the better style. (1)		[[WORLD WAR I]] brought many changes to boxing. For over 200 years, boxing had followed the Queensbury rules. This was not aggressive enough for the military which put an emphasis on aggressiveness. Army rules provided for two judges on either side of the ring and a referee in the ring. At the end of three rounds, each two minutes in length, the judges declared the winner. If they did not agree, the referee decided. Points were awarded for direct clean hits with the knuckle-side of the glove of either hand on the front or sides of the head or body above the belt. If the two contestants tied on the number of points, the winner was decided by the fighter who displayed the better style. (1)

	[[WARD, Arch\|Arch WARD]], the sports editor of the ''Chicago Tribune'', ~~started the idea of~~ the Golden Gloves amateur boxing tournament. The program was designed to help youth and promote amateur competition. The only material reward was a small golden glove, symbol of amateur championship, awarded to the winner of each weight division. The first Golden Gloves tournament was held in 1923.		[[WARD, Arch\|Arch WARD]], the sports editor of the ''Chicago Tribune'', originated the Golden Gloves amateur boxing tournament. The program was designed to help youth and promote amateur competition. The only material reward was a small golden glove, symbol of amateur championship, awarded to the winner of each weight division. The first Golden Gloves tournament was held in 1923.

	In 1934 the Golden Gloves Tournament sponsored locally by the YMCA on February 8, 9, and 10th generated a great deal of ~~interest~~. Promoters suggested at least sixteen Dubuque boys alone intended on signing up. Boxers from within a radius of 100 miles or better could enter. The finalists ~~would represent~~ Dubuque at the annual Chicago Tribune tournament held later in February. Winners locally were awarded golden gloves, while runners-up received bronze gloves. The YMCA announced it would house all the boxers as long as they were still in the running during the three day event. (2)		In 1934 the Golden Gloves Tournament sponsored locally by the YMCA on February 8, 9, and 10th generated a great deal of excitement. Promoters suggested at least sixteen Dubuque boys alone intended on signing up. Boxers from within a radius of 100 miles or better could enter. The finalists represented Dubuque at the annual ''Chicago Tribune'' tournament held later in February. Winners locally were awarded golden gloves, while runners-up received bronze gloves. The YMCA announced it would house all the boxers as long as they were still in the running during the three day event. (2)

	[[AARONSON, Milton\|Milt AARONSON]] fought his first fight in Dubuque since turning pro on June 9, 1936 at [[MELODY MILL]]. The same night was the first time Dubuque fans witnessed [[FENELON, Ken\|Ken FENELON]] as a wrestler although he had been in the business over a year. (3)		[[AARONSON, Milton\|Milt AARONSON]] fought his first fight in Dubuque since turning pro on June 9, 1936 at [[MELODY MILL]]. The same night was the first time Dubuque fans witnessed [[FENELON, Ken\|Ken FENELON]] as a wrestler although he had been in the business over a year. (3)

	In 1936 the Cedar Rapids Golden Gloves was started. Young men sponsored by the [[YOUNG MEN'S CHRISTIAN ASSOCIATION (Y.M.C.A.)]], American Legion, C.Y.O.,[[DUBUQUE BOYS' CLUB]], and private business trained in several facilities throughout the Dubuque area. Names like [[KELLY, Clement\|Clement KELLY]], [[CLENDEN, Marv\|Marv CLENDEN]]. [[WELTY, Roger\|Roger WELTY]], [[BURDS, Mark\|Mark BURDS]], and [[SLATTERY, Bobby\|Bobby SLATTERY]] began appearing on sanctioned boxing cards and in newspapers throughout the United States.		In 1936 the Cedar Rapids Golden Gloves was started. Young men sponsored by the [[YOUNG MEN'S CHRISTIAN ASSOCIATION (Y.M.C.A.)]], American Legion, C.Y.O.,[[DUBUQUE BOYS' CLUB]], and private business trained in several facilities throughout the Dubuque area. Names like [[KELLY, Clement\|Clement KELLY]], [[CLENDEN, Marv\|Marv CLENDEN]], [[WELTY, Roger\|Roger WELTY]], [[BURDS, Mark\|Mark BURDS]], and [[SLATTERY, Bobby\|Bobby SLATTERY]] began appearing on sanctioned boxing cards and in newspapers throughout the United States.

	Milt Aaronson's manager, Benny Ray, who also promoted boxing at Marigold Gardens in Chicago stated in 1937 he intended to promote boxing in Dubuque. His plans called for a weekly or semi-monthly show at Melody Mill starting in July. (4)		Milt Aaronson's manager, Benny Ray, who also promoted boxing at Marigold Gardens in Chicago stated in 1937 that he intended to promote boxing in Dubuque. His plans called for a weekly or semi-monthly show at Melody Mill starting in July. (4)

	The Catholic Youth Organization (C.Y.O.) Tournament of Champions in 1937 was attended by an estimated 5,000 fans. The Rev. [[HOFFMANN, Mathias M. Sr.\|Mathias M. HOFFMANN, Sr.]], founder of the C.Y.O., crowned Jerry Roth the heavyweight champion and nine other boys their title trophies. (5) In 1938 the C.Y.O. team took on Chicago's C.Y.O. champions at the Dubuque ball park as the Chicago boxers were preparing for their international matches. (6)		The Catholic Youth Organization (C.Y.O.) Tournament of Champions in 1937 was attended by an estimated 5,000 fans. The Rev. [[HOFFMANN, Mathias M. Sr.\|Mathias M. HOFFMANN, Sr.]], founder of the local C.Y.O., crowned Jerry Roth the heavyweight champion and presented nine other boys with their title trophies. (5) In 1938 the C.Y.O. team took on Chicago's C.Y.O. champions at the Dubuque ball park as the Chicago boxers were preparing for their international matches. (6)

	High school boxing was considered likely to be banned by the Iowa High School Athletic Association in 1946. The action was taken a month after a high school boxer was killed in a match between two schools in western Iowa. [[LORAS ACADEMY]], one of the few major high schools in the state with an interscholastic boxing team, offered boxing as a major sport for three years. Rather than eliminate the sport, the Loras coach supported changing the rules to ensure no further fatal accidents. (7)		High school boxing was considered likely to be banned by the Iowa High School Athletic Association in 1946. The action was taken a month after a high school boxer was killed in a match between two schools in western Iowa. [[LORAS ACADEMY]], one of the few major high schools in the state with an interscholastic boxing team, offered boxing as a major sport for three years. Rather than eliminate the sport, the Loras coach supported changing the rules to ensure no further fatal accidents. (7)

	In 1947 Golden Gloves boxing returned to Dubuque. The first matches since 1934 were held on February 6th and 7th in the gymnasium of the ~~[[YOUNG MEN'S CHRISTIAN ASSOCIATION (~~Y.M.C.A.~~)]]~~ with more than thirty boxers entered. Co-promoting the fights were Harry Hutt and [[FENELON, Ken\|Ken FENELON]]~~. The promoters~~ promised at least ten bouts of three rounds each night. Fighters from Prairie du Chien, Platteville, Shullsburg, Cascade, Cedar Rapids and Bellevue were among those fighting to represent Dubuque in the state tournament to be held in Cedar Rapids. Local fighters included Roger Welty, [[UNIVERSITY OF DUBUQUE]] welterweight; ~~and~~ Ray "Chief" Meyer who fought in the 160-pound class; and Don Dupont from [[LORAS ACADEMY]] who was undefeated in three years of boxing in the 112-pound class. (8)		In 1947 Golden Gloves boxing returned to Dubuque. The first matches since 1934 were held on February 6th and 7th in the gymnasium of the Y.M.C.A. with more than thirty boxers entered. Co-promoting the fights were Harry Hutt and [[FENELON, Ken\|Ken FENELON]] who promised at least ten bouts of three rounds each night. Fighters from Prairie du Chien, Platteville, Shullsburg, Cascade, Cedar Rapids and Bellevue were among those fighting to represent Dubuque in the state tournament to be held in Cedar Rapids. Local fighters included Roger Welty, [[UNIVERSITY OF DUBUQUE]] welterweight; Ray "Chief" Meyer who fought in the 160-pound class; and Don Dupont from [[LORAS ACADEMY]] who was undefeated in three years of boxing in the 112-pound class. (8)

	In Dubuque, the [[40 and 8]] group of the American Legion began sponsoring a Dubuque boxing program in 1955. The training was carried out on the second floor of the American Legion building at the corner of Fourth and Locust, the later site of the [[SHOT TOWER INN (THE)]].		In Dubuque, the [[40 and 8]] group of the American Legion began sponsoring a Dubuque boxing program in 1955. The training was carried out on the second floor of the American Legion building at the corner of Fourth and Locust, the later site of the [[SHOT TOWER INN (THE)]].
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	The American Legion ended its boxing program in 1963. Frankie Farrell, a former boxer, took over the program in a number of locations including an upstairs location across the street from the [[ORPHEUM]], a club on Pinard Street, and the old Y.M.C.A. building on Eighth and Iowa. Farrell continued the program until his death.		The American Legion ended its boxing program in 1963. Frankie Farrell, a former boxer, took over the program in a number of locations including an upstairs location across the street from the [[ORPHEUM]], a club on Pinard Street, and the old Y.M.C.A. building on Eighth and Iowa. Farrell continued the program until his death.

	[[GLYNN, John\|John GLYNN]] and [[BURDS, Mark\|Mark BURDS]] have been credited with reviving the sport in Dubuque around 1969 with training at the new Y.M.C.A./Y.W.C.A. From 1970 through around 1974, an estimated 80-85 boys participated in the program. The team won 15 state championships and the junior team won the Junior Olympic trophy in April, 1974. The same year four team members entered the all-Iowa Golden Gloves Tournament and all four won titles. (9) From 1975 until 1978, Marv Clenden ran a boxing club in a building he had constructed for the purpose. The ~~Boys~~' ~~Club~~ began a program in 1974. The original instructors and coaches included Mark Burds, Ralph Bolsinger, and Marv Clenden. Amateur boxing faded during the 1970s when longtime coaches retired and no one replaced them.		[[GLYNN, John\|John GLYNN]] and [[BURDS, Mark\|Mark BURDS]] have been credited with reviving the sport in Dubuque around 1969 with training at the new Y.M.C.A./Y.W.C.A. From 1970 through around 1974, an estimated 80-85 boys participated in the program. The team won 15 state championships and the junior team won the Junior Olympic trophy in April, 1974. The same year four team members entered the all-Iowa Golden Gloves Tournament and all four won titles. (9) From 1975 until 1978, Marv Clenden ran a boxing club in a building he had constructed for the purpose. The [[DUBUQUE BOYS' CLUB]] began a program in 1974. The original instructors and coaches included Mark Burds, Ralph Bolsinger, and Marv Clenden. Amateur boxing faded during the 1970s when longtime coaches retired and no one replaced them.

	In 1991 the city council passed an ordinance banning elimination-boxing competitions. The ordinance ~~had been passed following~~ a severe head injury to Dan Vondran who was then 29 years old. (10)		In 1991 the city council passed an ordinance banning elimination-boxing competitions in the city. The ordinance followed a severe head injury to Dan Vondran, a boxer, who was then 29 years old. (10)

	Recent boxing history in Dubuque included [[LINDECKER, Scott\|Scott LINDECKER]], [[RUSK, Tom\|Tom RUSK]], and Pat Swan, the only professional boxer in Dubuque in 1997 with a record of fifteen wins and only three losses. Pete Henkels, Dave Hess, and Fran Bechen were the only active state boxing officials from Dubuque. Henkels worked as a judge for amateur boxing matches; Hess was a supervisor of the Iowa Boxing Association and was an active judge in the NABF, USBA, WBO, and the IBC.		Recent boxing history in Dubuque included [[LINDECKER, Scott\|Scott LINDECKER]], [[RUSK, Tom\|Tom RUSK]], and Pat Swan, the only professional boxer in Dubuque in 1997 with a record of fifteen wins and only three losses. Pete Henkels, Dave Hess, and Fran Bechen were the only active state boxing officials from Dubuque. Henkels worked as a judge for amateur boxing matches; Hess was a supervisor of the Iowa Boxing Association and was an active judge in the NABF, USBA, WBO, and the IBC.

	In 1999 Julius Pruitt, a native of Freeport, Illinois and a boxing fan moved to Dubuque. After about six months of participating in training and a 3-1 record in the ring he was looking for a club in Dubuque but found none. He eventually set up his own gym and by 2000 had earned his Iowa amateur boxing license. He then let officials with the Iowa Amateur Boxing Association know that he was available for a match. (11)		In 1999 Julius Pruitt, a native of Freeport, Illinois and a boxing fan moved to Dubuque. After about six months of participating in training and a 3-1 record in the ring, he was looking for a club in Dubuque but found none. He eventually set up his own gym and by 2000 had earned his Iowa amateur boxing license. He then let officials with the Iowa Amateur Boxing Association know that he was available for a match. (11)

	Pruitt's experience was not unique. Amateur boxers seldom knew who they would fight until the day of the weigh-in. Few clubs were year-round because the boys participated in other sports ~~making~~ the season end in April with the Golden Gloves match. Kenny Buffington, president of the Iowa Amateur Association, suggested at the time that anyone thinking of beginning a boxing club should get incorporated so that they could get funding for non-profit organization. Amateur boxing, he felt, was well-organized and operated. Coaches had to receive a six-to-eight hour course and officials watched to see that matches did not involve mismatched competitors. Amateur boxing was about scoring points not knocking out the other competitor. In 2000 boxing clubs existed in Cedar Rapids, Marshalltown, Des Moines and Davenport. (12)		Pruitt's experience was not unique. Amateur boxers seldom knew who they would fight until the day of the weigh-in. Few clubs were year-round because the boys participated in other sports bringing the season to an end in April with the Golden Gloves match. Kenny Buffington, president of the Iowa Amateur Association, suggested at the time that anyone thinking of beginning a boxing club should get incorporated so that they could get funding for non-profit organization. Amateur boxing, he felt, was well-organized and operated. Coaches had to receive a six-to-eight hour course and officials watched to see that matches did not involve mismatched competitors. Amateur boxing was about scoring points not knocking out the other competitor. In 2000 boxing clubs existed in Cedar Rapids, Marshalltown, Des Moines and Davenport. (12)

	On June 18, 2001 the Dubuque City Council revoked the 1991 ordinance banning elimination-boxing to allow competitions known as 'Toughman Contests.' The council action allowed Adoreable Promotions, Inc, to rent [[FIVE FLAGS CIVIC CENTER]] for a televised Toughman Contest in the fall. (13) Pete Henkels of Cash Promotions, promoted bouts on April 11 and September 26, 1997 at the Dubuque County Fairgrounds. Attendance at the first was limited by a snowstorm and the second was unfortunately scheduled for the same night as the Hempstead-Wahlert High School football game. A third attempt to set up matches was postponed. (14)		On June 18, 2001 the Dubuque City Council revoked the 1991 ordinance banning elimination-boxing to allow competitions known as 'Toughman Contests.' The council action allowed Adoreable Promotions, Inc, to rent [[FIVE FLAGS CIVIC CENTER]] for a televised Toughman Contest in the fall. (13) Pete Henkels of Cash Promotions, promoted bouts on April 11 and September 26, 1997 at the Dubuque County Fairgrounds. Attendance at the first was limited by a snowstorm and the second was unfortunately scheduled for the same night as the Hempstead-Wahlert High School football game. A third attempt to set up matches was postponed. (14)