Tampa Police Officers assigned to the Tampa Police Athletic League will be holding final training sessions with local teen athletes Wednesday evening in final preparation for this weekend’s Cigar City Showcase Boxing Tournament. Officers assigned to PAL Boxing, joined by many of the teen athletes, will prepare for this weekend’s tournament with some mitt workouts, sparring, drills, and coaching. The preparation will take place at the Powerhouse Gym Athletic Club, located at 3251 W. Hillsborough Ave.
“The PAL Boxing Program is an incredible way for teens in our community to learn the value of hard work and dedication while building positive relationships with police officers,” said Chief Lee Bercaw. “We are proud to be able to continue this program as part of PAL and hope that members of our community join us in cheering on these amazing teens this Saturday.”
Highlighting the PAL Boxing Program is part of the ongoing expansion of community outreach efforts that are part of the department’s recently launched initiative revolving around sports themes. The approach, titled “Sharing Possibilities with Our Residents Through Sports” (SPORTS), seeks to create a positive relationship between the police and the community, particularly with kids. Future aspects of the SPORTS initiative will involve various activities such as recruitment at local high school sporting events, highlighting additional Police Athletic League (PAL) programs, and other activities. The goal is to create an environment where people feel comfortable interacting with police officers.
The Cigar City Showcase Boxing Tournament will take place on Saturday, September 30, 2023, at the Tampa Police Athletic League, located at 1924 W. Diana St. Tampa, FL 33604. Doors open at noon, with bouts beginning at 1:00 p.m. A total of 20 bouts will be held during this one-day tournament. Tickets range from $10-$35. Limited ringside seating is available. Kids under 6 years old have free entry. Details can be found at facebook.com/TampaPD.
We invite all members of our community to come out and show their support for these athletic teens!