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Team Diva Part 5

posted by Kathleen Holland on March 24, 2008, in Punch Lines By Judi Abate

By Judi Abate
Boxing Diva

Team Diva Member 5 is... Melanie Ley better know as "The Boxing Grandma." Melanie has been a member of USA boxing since 1987 as a volunteer time keeper, judge, clerk, tournament administrator and wears many more hats within the amateur boxing scene.

Melanie is my amateur boxing resident expert and a well respected boxing judge. At the present time, she maintains a website that is devoted to amateur boxing and she can also be found
answering Q and A's about amateur boxing on boxing related webpages. According to some earlier write up's about Mel, she is often referred to as one of the foremost amateur boxing authorities in the country.

As a boxing scribe, I felt it was important to have a balanced and educated view of both amateur and professional sides to boxing as well as boxers. Mel has been in the sport for over 20 years so it was for that reason I made contact with her to ask about the differences between amateurs and pro's.

Melanie has a deep love and appreciation for amateur boxing. She is totally devoted to all dealings within the amateur ranks. Mel was extremely helpful in answering my inquiry. When she did not have an answer off the top of her head she was sure to point me in the right direction to someone in the boxing community who would have the answer.

Mel's passion for the amateurs is both fierce as well as inspirational. She is definitely, one of the "good people" of our sport. Melanie has been valuable in giving my choice of boxing topics positive feedback and always encourages a new spin on old ideas. She is a true seer of all that is amateur boxing.

Let's talk to Melanie:

Why did you get involved in boxing?

I have always like boxing as there is a real art and technique involved (at least in amateur boxing).

Your personal boxing experience includes...

None. I have been an amateur boxing judge for over 20 years and a computer technician for 9.

Why do you coach/train?

I judge because I enjoy watching the athletes grow and become successful adults.

Your boxing philosophy...

Boxing allows our youth to learn to fail successfully, and instills self-esteem, self-discipline and good sportsmanship.

A good boxer is...

Disciplined and focused; is humble; is dedicated; does well in school and in his or her community.

A good trainer/coach is...

A person who will put education above the sport; will insist on good sportsmanship and who helps his or her boxers become successful people.

How can we keep boxing strong?

By supporting the grass roots level - amateur boxing. Without amateur boxing, there would be no Shane Mosley, or Oscar De La Hoya.

Your famous last words about boxing...

Keep it clean and competitive - I wish!

* Last but not least will be team Member 6... Dan Horgan*

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