Posted by MVPAL supporter, a resident of the North Whisman neighborhood, on Oct 3, 2008 at 10:24 am

Over 20 yrs ago we had a PAL boxing program in MV that seemed pretty successful, so I'm happy to see that MVPAL has been able to restart it with a fresh group of students and coaches.

Too bad that we had to lose the continuity of the program, but I do understand that needs change over time with demographics and other factors.

Another interesting note is that we also used to have a PAL building where the old boxing program was based. I believe it was at Dana and Oak, where the fire station is now, and I remember volunteering at some of the matches that were held there.

Thanks to MVPAL, the coaches and kids for resurrecting the program.

Posted by Nancy, a resident of the The Crossings neighborhood, on Oct 3, 2008 at 3:16 pm

I seriously question the value of teaching kids with troubles how to box. It's just another form of fighting and aggression. What good does it really do for them in the long run? Surely there are better ways for these kids to expend their energy and aggression. How will the skills they learn here transfer to them getting a job in the future?

Posted by GSB, a resident of the Castro City neighborhood, on Oct 3, 2008 at 4:22 pm

Boxing, as with any highly physical sport, allows you to get out your aggression, etc. in a safer and healthier way. With boxing, it's not just about the punching of a bag, but developing patience and strategy, which can be used in all parts of life.

Posted by Ned, a resident of the Old Mountain View neighborhood, on Oct 4, 2008 at 2:52 pm

Tennis and golf involve patience and strategy and provide good networking oppotunities as young men and women advance in their careers. Boxing involves attempting to bash another human being in the face and knock them out. Taxpayer money should not be used to support these activiites.

Posted by GSB, a resident of the Castro City neighborhood, on Oct 4, 2008 at 3:03 pm

Ned,

Sounds like you've never engaged in pugilism before.

You will be happy to know that taxpayer money isn't being used. PAL is under a nonprofit that the Chief founded, it's not part of the City. Thus, all funding for PAL programs come from donations and volunteers.