Four more years is typically related to the winning politician on election night. In this case, it refers to a longtime local boxing coach looking to end his career in style.
When the Canada Games Council’s Sport Committee announced boxing had been re-instated for the 2019 Winter Games in Alberta, Ken McInnis saw an opportunity in front of him.
He has already groomed local athletes to compete in two previous Games before the sport was dropped for the recent 2015 Winter Games in Prince George.
Now his Lights Out Boxing Club is seeking 13-and-14-year-old athletes to potentially groom over the next four years to earn a spot on the U18 Team B.C.
McInnis never had the proper certification with Boxing Canada to be a member of the Team B.C. coaching staff.
The last time he went he served as a team manager. He has since earned the opportunity to be in the corner should he have athletes on the team.
“I would like one last run at the Games,” said McInnis, who began coaching 17 years ago. Now I have the credentials and, before this thing winds up, It would be nice to have a chance to go.”
McInnis is looking for young athletes that fit the age criteria and says boxing could compliment another sport.
“I don’t need them in the gym all the time,” he explained. “This is a six or seven month commitment and we gradually build it up over the three or four years. I want them to keep playing other sports.
“They don’t need any experience. Just an athletic background. As long as they are in that age range, we have lots of time.”
McInnis suggests there is room to train about 10 young prospects.
Currently his club trains Tuesday and Thursday nights, as well as the occasional Saturday afternoons at New Era Athletics, located behind Ironwood Mall.
Interested athletes or parents can reach Ken McInnis at 604-812-1444.
