This is definitely the saddest news I have heard in a while. I just found out that the Villa Park Boxing Club will close after 25 years of serving the community, effective as of September 1st. I’m aware that all chapters come to an end, none the less, we can’t prepare for them. This club has had the greatest influence on my life since I first stepped inside the ring in 8th grade. Hell, I was just representing the Villa Park Boxing Club at the Chicago Golden Gloves in 2018.

This club has always been there for me and has always given me a sense of direction when I most needed it. I wouldn’t be the man I am today without coaches like Paul Lee Pleticha and Donita M. Pleticha. Their selfless dedication will always be remembered by many. With Coach Tony Lgnrunning the gym these last few years, he continued to carry the torch, offering the same escape from the streets and drugs to our youth. I grew up boxing with Tony since high school, he’s a great man and a great coach. I’m sad to hear this chapter is set to end.

But if there’s one thing I learned from boxing is that you have to pick yourself back up. Life knocks you down, life gets tough, but you get up- you dust off your gloves- readjust and you fight back!