Boxers sought for K.O. Drugs tourney

February 24, 2014 at 12:00a.m.

NORTH LIMA

The 27th K.O. Drugs high school boxing tournament is set to begin March 27 with first-round action to take place at the Shops at North Lima Business Complex, 11836 South Avenue, North Lima.

The former South Range High School will also play host to semifinal action on April 3 with championship bouts slated for April 10.

The all-Thursday event, which is open to high school boys and girls in Mahoning, Trumbull, Columbiana, Lawrence and Mercer counties, is expected to attract triple-digit participation once again and has played host to more than 2,500 boys and girls since its inception.

“Over 100 students entered last year’s competition and we were able to crown 25 champions,” tournament founder/director Chuck Nelson said. “This year we hope to eclipse both of those totals.”

Every participant agrees in writing to refrain from drug or alcohol use during the three-week competition.

“That is something of which we are most proud,” Nelson said. “The young men and women who enter gain confidence, self-esteem and mutual respect while competing as beginners in the ring.

“Many former entrants have gone on to further their boxing careers in the amateur Golden Gloves and some within the professional ranks. Others have become successful in their professional lives as well.”

The double-elimination tournament has three divisions and 10 weight classes.

The underclass division has ninth and 10th-graders, while the upperclass has juniors and seniors, as well as a female division.

Preliminary bouts are comprised of three 45-second rounds with a one minute break between rounds.

Championship bouts are extended to one-minute rounds.

Nelson said the tournament is designed for beginners with a high priority on safety. Each boxer wears extra-padded head gear and 18-ounce gloves. There is also a physician on site.

Students can register at the old South Range High gymnasium on March 1 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and March 22 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Students can register at Eastwood Mall’s Center Court from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on March 8 and March 15.

Students under 18 need parental consent. A $25 registration fee is required to cover the cost of a physical exam and health insurance for all entrants.

Tickets are $9 for students and $15 for adults and will be available at the door the night of each event.

Doors open at 6 p.m. with the first bout at 7.

For details, call Nelson at 330-423-2203, or son Pat at 330-727-0932.