Grassroots in the News: December 2024
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by USA Boxing
Joliet’s Joseph Awinongya Wins Another National Boxing Title
Another boxing tournament, another win for Joliet teenager JoJo Awinongya. Just before Christmas, Awinongya competed at the USA Boxing National Championships in Richmond, Virginia. He moved up a weight class from 165 to 176, but it didn’t seem to affect him.
Thomas McElroy Jr. Readies for USA Boxing Training Camp in January
Thomas McElroy Jr. first stepped in a boxing ring when he was four years old, but it was four years ago that he found a passion for the sport.
That passion now has molded him into a boxer who has been invited to the USA Boxing training camp in January
Staten Island's Laila Zakirova Shines on National Stage and Has Eyes on 2028 Olympics
At 5 years old, it’s common for young girls to become involved with sporting activities such as cheerleading, gymnastics or ballet. When she was that age, Staten Islander Laila Zakirova was in her father’s boxing gym, putting gloves to pads.
What began as a way for her to learn self-defense skills as a young girl has blossomed into something extraordinary. The Tottenville High School senior recently was crowned the Female Youth National Champion at the 2024 USA Boxing National Championships, held Dec. 16-21, 2024 in Richmond, Virginia. Her performance at nationals also earned her an esteemed Most Outstanding Youth Female Boxer recognition.
Olympic boxer Jennifer Lozano named LMT's Laredoan of the Year
After making history as Laredo’s first Olympic athlete, Jennifer Lozano is continuing to show the competitive fire and equal passion for inspiring youth which earned her the distinction of LMT’s 2024 Laredoan of the Year.
