DULUTH, Minn. (Northern News Now) – The St. Louis County Sheriff’s Office Police Athletic League held its first-ever youth boxing event Friday night at Clyde Iron Works, drawing local, state, and regional athletes to compete in the ring.
The event featured 18 matches representing 15 different clubs, with both male and female boxers participating. Organizers said the event builds opportunities and confidence while strengthening the Minnesota boxing community.
Participating boxer Thomas Nacotee said the energy from the crowd is what drives him during a match.
“When I’m jabbing in the ring, or you know, doing whatever — the crowds are helping me. They’re yelling, ‘body,’ or ‘face,’ or ‘jab.’ I just listen to them, and hopefully, it works,” Nacotee said.
Doors opened at 3 p.m. with matches beginning at 4 p.m. Tickets were $20 at the door. Children were admitted free with a paying adult.
From participants to viewers – attendees at Saturday’s event shared a sense of community, excitement, and passion for boxing.
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