Hey Westside neighbors, did you know Smitty’s Midwest Boxing Gym/Youth Center is in our neighborhood? It is located at 648 S. Scenic. Owner Darrell Smith (Smitty), won the Kansas City open division Golden Gloves at the age of 16 and the North Carolina Golden Gloves in 1987. Smitty served in the 82nd Airborne Division in the Gulf War. In 1982, he was the Boys & Girls Clubs Youth of the Year.
Smitty’s Boxing Gym has become more than a place for boxers. It has volunteer tutors to help students in subjects like math and public speaking. Kids must maintain a B average in school to compete, and Thursdays are mandatory homework night. Coach Smitty wants everyone to know Smitty’s Midwest Boxing Gym is not just about the boxing, but teaching kids to stand on their own two feet, build confidence and how to interact with others.
Smitty’s has a variety of classes. They have all-level class for women, a combination class, classes for kids, plus free classes for those with Parkinson’s disease and autism. It also provides self-defense courses and free training for people with disabilities.
If you or your family is interested in boxing, getting in shape or building confidence, please check out Smitty’s Midwest Boxing Gym. The number is 417-260-0941. The website is Smittysboxing.com and you can find them on Facebook at Facebook.com/smittysmidwestboxing1135.
Coach Smitty is a member of the Heart of the Ozarks Sertoma Club, which raises money for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Springfield. Smitty’s Midwest Boxing Gym is a 501(c)(3) offering youth training beyond boxing skills. Check out the PBS documentary on the life of Darrell Smith called “Fighter: A Boxing Story.”
Westside Neighborhood Betterment Association welcomes Smitty’s Midwest Boxing Gym to our neighborhood.