Young Guyanese boxers challenged to perform well ahead of tournament

By Clifton Ross
COACHES, along with the technical staff of the Guyana Youth boxing team, yesterday challenged the young pugilists to give good account of themselves come this weekend when they square off against their Caribbean opponents.

Yesterday’s mini interaction held at the La France Restaurant on Charlotte Street featured president of the Guyana Boxing Association (GBA) Steve Ninvalle, coach Terrence Poole, manager Seon Bristol, Cuban coach Francisco Roland among others.

Newly appointed manager, Bristol, said he was honoured to be selected to his position.
He painted a picture of having what he described as ‘13 pitbulls’, between the ages of 13 and 16 under strict training along with strategic planning for the youths.

Bristol noted that it was a challenge but putting things in place with good management made the entire encampment and preparatory period, possible.
Renowned boxing coach Poole during his brief address, outlined the importance of such a tournament to the region. “We are the only country with an international schoolboys tournament”, Poole said who further added that it’s a major boost for both junior and nursery levels of boxing.

Poole believes that the months of preparation and the twice monthly Under-16 competitions, provided a lot of experience and exposure while buffing the enthusiasm of the fighters.
Another member of the technical team, Samuel Gittens, echoed similar sentiments, adding that the boxers should “Do less talking and do more work” while challenging them to prove him wrong this weekend.

Meanwhile, looking at the overall plus of hosting such an annual event, Ninvalle hinted that the other teams will be arriving today. He stated that they expect the tournament to be good one, adding that he sees it fit to have a nursery structural system for the future of the sport.

“Boxing is not an easy sport, you have to be dedicated and train. It’s not about winning it’s about developing, so thank you to the youngsters on behalf of GBA,” Ninvalle ended.
Cuban coach Roland, who had been helping with bringing boxers to a high level locally, thanked the GBA and Ninvalle for instilling confidence in him.

The Cuban rated Guyana as a powerhouse for boxing and urged GBA to continue its efforts in keeping the country’s reputation and prestige going.
Meanwhile, Ninvalle announced that the official weigh-in will be held tomorrow at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall (CASH), from 18:00hrs.