In its 85-year history, The Golden Gloves has operated with the belief "It's better to build boys, than mend men". Staying true to their motto bears the fruit of past Golden Glove Champions such as Joe Louis, Muhammad Ali, and Sugar Ray Leonard. The reputation of offering youth a positive experience by building character, physical stamina and communication skills, has garnered this sporting event the endorsements of Governor Tim Kaine, Virginia Beach Mayor Meyera Oberndorf.
One of the local gyms participating in The Golden Gloves is Seven Cities Boxing Club, owned and operated by Robert Matney. Matney's passion for boxing is evident in his level of dedication, the work ethic of his facility, and the connection he has with his students.
Matney, an Irishman from Kansas City, MO, made his way to Virginia Beach via the military, retiring as Navy Chief after 12 years of service. For the last 10 years he has enjoyed boxing and maintains his involvement on many levels. Along with all the responsibilities of running a gym, training elite competitors and mentoring youth, he currently holds the elected position of President of the Virginia Association of U.S.A. Boxing and is a representative for The Golden Gloves. His coaching responsibilities include the East Coast Navy Boxing Squad and the Navy Seals.
Seven Cities charges a monthly gym fee of $60, but requires no membership contracts Competitors must register with USA Boxing, which has an annual renewal fee of $40.
While Matney's gym might not hit you hard in the wallet, you will get hit hard in the ring. As stated on Matney's website, the minimum standard accepted at this training facility is an Olympic-Style method of boxing where "training sessions are brutal and sparring is at the highest level possible without actually being in combat."
One local young man who is not afraid of the challenge is 17-year-old, Bayside High School Senior, Rigo Rivera. Rivera and his two brothers, Noe, 9, and Diego, 7, log three-hour workouts Mondays thru Thursdays. Noe and Diego envision soccer eventually becoming a priority, but Rigo only wants to box. "My father didn't want me boxing at first. But when he saw how much I liked watching it on television, he let me try it and this is all I want to do," Rigo said.
Although Rigo enjoys playing soccer for his school, it's the cardio workout that he appreciates. "The hardest part about boxing is staying in shape," Rigo added. "I can stay away from sodas and junk food but I can't say no to my mom's cooking. It's good."
Classified as a Lightweight, Rigo has been boxing for four years and has 15 fights under his belt. At the gym, Rigo and the other athletes willingly adhere to Matney's strenuous demands, not out of fear, but because they know he cares. "When I'm doing bad, he'll tell me it's bad. He only wants to make me better," Rigo said. "He's like a second father to me." The bond between coach and athlete is further rooted because Matney has an ear for listening and a heart for toting his team up and down the road for weekend competitions
If you have what it takes to "train with a team of warriors, whose never-ending quest for hardcore levels of conditioning, thirst for learning and a desire to be number one, are the essence of greatness" then stop by Seven Cities Boxing Club at the oceanfront. If you're looking to experience the intense atmosphere of victory and defeat, come to the Virginia Beach Convention Center and cheer on the local boy Rigo Rivera as he chases his dream of becoming the Lightweight Virginia Champion, bringing him step closer to a National title.
www.7citiesboxing.org
www.vausaboxing.org
7 PM FRIDAY/SATURDAY, 28-29 MARCH 08 & 1 PM SUNDAY, 30 MARCH 08
Doors open at 6 PM and 12 PM respectively.
General Admission: Friday/Saturday -$20 (Adult over 12 years) $15 (Child 12 and under)
Sunday- $10 (Adult over 12 years) $5 (Child 12 and under)
All Event Pass $40 Adult $20 Child
Children under 6 Free
VIP Seating: Call Lara Rabi for pricing and seating info (757) 650-6088
