Referee Vocale commends revival of national boxing championships

By ERIC PIET
A referee has lauded the revival of boxing championships in the country, saying that the sport is crucial in helping youths achieve something meaningful in their lives.
Referee and former Australian National Boxing Federation president Brad Vocale said that he wanted to see boxing in Papua New Guinea being restored to its former glory.
“Over the years, professional boxing has been the major contributor to the youths of PNG in making something of their lives by challenging themselves, getting them off the streets, staying out of trouble, keeping them from substance abuses, and living a good and healthy lifestyles while earning a living,” Vocale said.
“Myself, president Elvin Wafewa and other PNG fight fans aspire to make boxing in the country famous again as we have the willpower, knowledge and desire to succeed.
“We are gaining the support of the people and most importantly, we have the fighters who are hungry and keen to become household names, not just in PNG, but in the entire Oceania region.”
Vocale said in the 1960s and 1970s, boxing had produced champions in the likes of Martin Beni, who competed around the world.