Coaches Appreciation Dinner Huge Success
Posted: October 13, 2009
by Bob Ryder

The collective history, knowledge and caring of the seven living Detroit area boxing coaches and trainers gathered in one room to be honored by appreciative family, friends and fans made for a special, moving and memorable evening for all in attendance. The theme of service that these men provided, not only to the sport of boxing, but to the needs and hopes of the city's youth over the many years, repeated itself countless times as each recipient received their just recognition. Some were moved to silence, others to humble thanks. It was long overdue acknowledgement for a special group of men who often are not noticed.

	Dave Shoulders (with belt) and Lawrence Taylor (left); Taurrek Fikes poses with former world champ Tom "Boom Boom" Johnson at Saturday's Appreciation Dinner for area coaches. Photos: Bob Ryder

Legendary coaches and trainers Bill Miller, Marty Gilday, Wally Cross, Al "Blue" Lewis, Lawrence Taylor, Floyd Logan and Dave Shoulders all were present and honored. Deceased greats Walter Smith and John Brown also received special tribute. The UAW Local 140 Hall in Warren was nearly full of their supporters. Former Detroit area boxers Hedgemon Lewis, Tom "Boom Boom" Johnson, Al "Tiger Cat" Jones, David Braxton, Derrick Jefferson, and Anthony Jones were in attendance to show their appreciation to many of the men who guided them in their journey through the pro ranks. Detroit Councilwoman Brenda Jones and Congressman John Conyers were present to provide their well wishes as well.

Longtime boxing coaches with more than 300 years of training experience were honored in Warren on Saturday. (From left to right) Miller, Shoulders, Cross, Taylor, Gilday, Logan and Lewis. Photo: Bob Ryder

The real stars of the night however, were the honorees. The extraordinary deeds of each were detailed by emcee Frank Garza and presenters Sue Worander, James Jackson, Rene Muniz and Jeanntte Gordon. Bill Miller spoke quietly of how he has seen them all, going as far back as Jack Johnson! His work with such fighters as James Toney, Lindell Holmes, Davey Moore, Bronco McKart and so many others over his 64 years of training makes one wonder if we will soon see his kind again. Marty Gilday has probably gloved at least once, every amateur boxer that has ever fought in the Detroit area. Floyd Logan has coached at Kronk for many years. Former heavyweight contender "Blue" Lewis fought Muhammad Ali as a pro and after his active boxing career ended has been training and coaching for the Parks and Recreation Department. "Peanut" Taylor has trained fighters for over 30 years and Wally Cross for over 20. Dave Shoulders as a young pro promised his mother he would give it up if ever knocked out. After he was knocked out by Joe Sheldon, he kept his word but thankfully stayed in the sport all these years as a dedicated coach, mentor, and trainer to many kids. As part of the evening's festivities Dave was presented with a championship belt in recognition of his "champion" status as well as what might have been had he continued his pro career.

Brothers Michael and Manson Halliburton organized and put on this event. They are to be commended also. They did a tremendous job and announced to the gathering that this was the beginning of what is expected to be an annual happening. I hope they will succeed in their efforts. Anyone who is in boxing or loves the sport should watch for the next one and make plans to attend. If this inaugural dinner was any indication, it will be an event they will long remember.

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