The deal is done.
The youth boxing program, Kent East Hill Kids (Police Action League) Boxing Club, is officially off the ground and running.
Leslie Hamada, executive director of the boxing program and Kent Parks, Recreation and Community Services Director Jeff Watling signed the documents at City Hall June 30 setting up the program at the Kent Phoenix Academy facility.
“I am thrilled we can start this partnership with the city and school district,” Hamada said. “The best thing is the kids are going to benefit from this. I am thrilled after all this time we can do this.”
Watling said. “We have been looking for ways to expand services. We see this as a partnership.”
Councilman Dennis Higgins attended the signing and stated, “Everyone got together and saw the value and found a way to make it happen.”
The city already operates community recreations programs out of the academy. The Kent School District and the city signed an agreement in 2007, allowing the city to use part of the academy as a community center.
“Dr. Vargas (Kent School District superintendent) was very good working with us,” Hamada said. “He’s been in our corner. The city also came in and stuck with it.”
John Brown has been signed up to coach the program, Hamada said, and some volunteer coaches are also signed up to help.
According to Hamada, Brown boxed in the Navy and “a little professionally.” She noted Brown has a master degree and speaks fluent Russian.
He previously coached a boxing program in Alaska.
“It has all really come together,” Hamada said.
The plan is for the program to begin in early August
The boxing club will be an additional after school program and will be operated by the club.
The club will be part of the King County Police Action League boxing clubs.
Hamada said the cost for youths to participate would be $50 to join the USA Boxing organization, a national governing body for amateur boxing. There also is the cost of purchasing gloves and other equipment.
Hamada said youths will not be turned away if they cannot afford the program.
For information about the club contact leslieglenhamada1@prodigy.net.
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