YEREVAN—While it may not be the film version of “Rocky,” young boxing aspirants in Yerevan are punching a ticket to become future champions of Armenia.
They are part of the Armenian Boxing School of Yerevan, smack dab in the bustling downtown district at Nalbandyan. You can recognize the place by the large tricolor at the front.
The sounds of punching bags and exuberated cheers empty out into the street as young aspirants display their wares with as much diligence as one might expect. They come here to gather fundamentals and represent their country in a federated sport.
The more celebrated athletes might wind up with an Olympic berth, much like many of their predecessors who have brought homage to the country. At the core is Vladimir Yengerbaryan, a three-time European titlist and gold medalist.
The fact he’s 77 and can still throw a punch draws the respect of his fledgling students.
“This is a very special year for the program as it embarks upon a 50th anniversary,” says Suren Kazaryan, a celebrated coach, judge, and referee. “Although we teach them the tools to become winners, the school goes beyond that. We strive to create honorary citizens who exercise strong values in life.”
One peek inside Kazaryan’s office and you will find the remnants of a true international champion. Citations. Trophies. Banners. Medals. All have earned him a wealth of success in the sport. His most prominent title came in 1971 during a USA-USSR bout in Las Vegas.
A set of tricolor boxing gloves, which was his trademark, hangs from the wall just below a photo of the man in his fighting prime who went 173-13 as a lightweight. Most all the victories were by a knockout.
Now 60, he dedicates his time and energy to the youth.
“Our country has done very well in the sport of boxing,” he says. “Any success we have achieved in the ring is being passed on to the next generation. All we ask in return is dedication.”
On any given day, 80-100 candidates hit the gym, joined by a cadre of volunteers like Haratzoum Tameryan, who boasts five Olympic medals. The program is funded through private contributions at no cost to the students. All equipment is standardized with no compromise on excellence.
A typical session runs about two hours. A coach leads his crew through a series of warm-up exercises with no tolerance for horseplay. If someone reneges, he’s given a reprimand. They are all boys here—no girls—and they are quickly being shaped into men.
It turns into a serious game of “Simon Says” as commands are followed to precision. One cannot help but be impressed by the discipline and serious mood of the young pugilists.
In an adjacent room, the older ones are taking out their aggressions on a punching bag, skipping rope, and lifting weights. A full-fledged boxing ring waits its turn as the sparring sessions begin. There is no love gained here as the boxers are out to carve an impression and prepare for the next level.
If that means punching out your best friend to gain a berth in competition, all well and good. Camaraderie on the whole is manifested at all costs. Much as individual glory plays a big role, the matter of teamwork never diminishes.
“In order to be a champion, one must follow the rules and prepare for defeat,” one energized youngster pointed out. “You’ve got to pay the price. It isn’t easy. This school has given me confidence, an opportunity to excel at something I enjoy. One day, I hope to stand on a pedestal at the World Olympic Games and hear ’Mer Hairenik’ as a gold medal is pinned on my uniform.”
Tom Vartabedian
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