Tucked away in the hills of west Portland is a small gym where amateur and professional boxers are made. The West Portland Boxing team is currently run in a basement level of the Garden Home Recreation Center, in Portland, founded in 1979 by Head Coach, Bill Meartz. Entering the Garden Home center is like a scene from the original Rocky film, you enter into a room filled with enthusiasm, two kids spar in a makeshift ring, others are pounding on the heavy bags. The aroma of sweat and leather fill the air, and you hear the sounds of jump ropes and. speed bags rhythmically pounding and dedication floats through the room like a windy fall day.
The purpose of the team is to train its members to become amateur boxers competing at USA Boxing sanctioned events in the Northwest and throughout the United States. It is through USA Boxing that American boxers compete in the Junior Olympics, US National Championships, international competitions and the Olympics. The highest goal of the West Portland Boxing Team and USA Boxing is to help American boxers win Olympic gold for our country.
The coaches of the West Portland Boxing Team train children and adults, regardless of ethnicity, nationality, gender, size, experience and ability. Children are especially encouraged to train with the team as they are this country's best hope for someday representing America in international competitions.
West Portland Boxing Team, 7475 SW Olsen Road, OR 97223, Portland, OR 97233
(503) 245-5719
Member - Oregon Association USA Boxing Inc.
