GLENDALE : City Sets Up Boxing Program for Teens

Put on your “Rocky” soundtrack and pump up the volume for “Eye of the Tiger.” The Glendale Youth Boxing program will make its debut June 7.

Sponsored by Glendale police and the city’s parks department, the program reaches out to 13- to 17-year-olds within the school district.

“The main purpose is to provide for middle school- and high school-aged students an opportunity to learn self-defense, discipline and teamwork,” Officer Rod Brooks said.

Police received $10,000 from the city’s community development budget to pay for such equipment as a boxing ring and gloves, officials said. The money is expected to be available in July.

In addition, $2,500 has been donated by the Tropico Kiwanis Club and the Glendale Police Officers Assn., Brooks said.

Boxing will take place Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays between 3:30 and 5:30 p.m. at Glendale Presbyterian Church, 125 S. Louise St. Five police officers and a firefighter will donate time to coach and train aspiring pugilists, Brooks said.

A $60 membership fee, which includes registration with the USA Amateur Boxing Federation, could be waived through scholarships. Students must also have signed waivers from parents, a 2.0 grade-point average, and maintain a good attendance and disciplinary record.

A meeting for those interested in the program is scheduled Tuesday at the church. For information, contact Brooks at (818) 548-2059.