ROKICI-E Boxing Club | ABC30 Fresno | abc30.com

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By ABC30

Friday, July 3, 2009

Lemoore, CA | Watch Video Above for More Information on this Story |

Briannda Sauceda said, "I used to be more mad but I'm more calm now and more happy."

Briannda says after her mom passed away she became angry, until she started coming by the ROKICI-E Boxing Club after school, now she says she's found peace of mind.

"It was something to look forward to every week to see friends and my coach I think of him like a parent," said Briannda.

That coach is Lemoore Parks and Recreation employee Eddie Neal. A former pro heavyweight, Neal hopes to bring positive energy to local children and keep them out of trouble.

"Every last one of them they've been through something and that's why I sit back and it's not about this bag it's not about the ring it's about life boxing is life," said Neal.

Eddie goes through a series of drills with the students, who vary in age. The kids listen to Eddie's every word, and there are consequences if they misbehave.

"We have discipline as far as running if somebody's talking in class they go run I don't have to correct them I have leaders that correct them," said Neal.

The kids say listening to Eddie and coming to the boxing ring a few times a week, has paid off not only in school but at home.

Antonio Castro said, "At school I would always be in trouble and then when I joined boxing I wouldn't get in trouble anymore."

The name ROKICI-E comes from a combination of the names of the Rotary and Kiwanis Clubs, the city, all who paid for the new boxing ring and equipment the kids are practicing on.

The community has rallied around the new club hoping that if the children fall down in life they remember it's about getting back up that will lead you to success.