Youth Inspired by Boxing Program
Covington Lord’s Gym Welcomes Youth with Boxing
A few mop and broom sticks and his mother’s clothes line made a make-shift boxing ring where Jeff “Cobra” McCall’s mission in life was laid out.
“I wanted to be a professional boxer,” McCall, 65, of Covington, said. “And now that I’ve done that and am retired, I want to help kids. They need something, they need people to help them learn to make friends, do something constructive and they need to dream and know that their dreams can come true.”
Boxing, McCall said, helps kids focus. They are also learning a new skill, building bonds with coaches and are learning about Jesus.
I love sharing my personal testimony and encouraging these young men and women to turn their lives over to the Lord. That’s a beautiful thing to do, ministering to youth through boxing.”
McCall and his Cobra Boxing Club has partnered with Lord’s Gym Ministries in Covington to do just that.
“I am really happy to be able to work with Lord’s Gym, I’m thankful to God for the opportunity,” McCall said. “I’m also grateful that we get to work with kids in Covington and surrounding communities. I know how it was when I was younger, when you get too much time on your hands, you get into trouble. We want to make sure these kids get on the right path and stay on the right path in life. It feels good doing that.”
Mikey, 17, of Newport, said he was introduced to the boxing program by someone he went to church with. He’s been enjoying boxing for a few months now.
“It helps me control my anger,” he said.” Instead of going out to fight, I’m learning to utilize that energy for something good. This is a sport I want to pursue. You have to be dedicated and self-disciplined, I’m learning those things here. This program means a lot to me for real.”
Bray, 17, of Cincinnati, said he has a lot of fun at the boxing program.
“The coaches and the friends I’ve made are like my family,” he said. “And, this is a fun sport. I’m now more disciplined, learning more and I’m exercising.”