Michigan Boxing team Fights for University Recognition After Successful out-of-State Bout
FINDLAY, OH - The Michigan College Boxing team returned from a weekend victory at Marathon Center for Performing Arts in Findlay, Ohio, energized by individual wins and fueled by a larger ambition: official recognition from the University of Michigan. The team’s recent successes, including a final-bout win by LSA alum Collin Erickson, are bolstering their ongoing efforts to gain the same support and resources afforded to other varsity athletic programs.
For years, the student-run boxing club has operated as a registered student institution, relying on fundraising and dedicated coaching to compete against other collegiate teams. Despite consistent success and a commitment to discipline and athletic development, the team currently lacks official university funding, access to dedicated training facilities, and the prestige associated wiht varsity status. A successful season, culminating in events like Main Event IV, serves as a powerful exhibition of the team’s dedication and potential, strengthening their case for university backing.
“Boxing teaches you to get back up,” said team member Musalia,reflecting a sentiment echoed throughout the program. “We’ve been knocked down, but we’re still standing. And we’re not done yet.”
The team views university recognition not merely as a financial benefit, but as validation of boxing as a legitimate and valuable sport. They argue that the discipline, physical fitness, and mental fortitude cultivated through boxing contribute considerably to the holistic development of student-athletes. Every match won, every punch thrown, is presented as evidence of their commitment and worth.
“For the Michigan College Boxing team, every punch thrown and every match won is another argument for their case, a testament to the worth, discipline and heart of students who refuse to let their passion and praise for the sport end outside the ring,” the team stated.
The team’s pursuit of university recognition is ongoing, with members actively engaging with university administration and seeking support from alumni and the wider Michigan community. Managing Photo Editor Holly burkhart can be reached at hollybur@umich.edu.
