The Utah House of Representatives convened on February 14, 2024, to honor the Garcia family, particularly recognizing the achievements of young boxer Aaron Garcia Junior. The motion to authorize the speaker to sign a citation in his honor was presented by a member of the House, who highlighted the family's significant contributions to the community and the sport of boxing.
Aaron Garcia Junior, just 15 years old, has already made a name for himself in amateur boxing, boasting an impressive record of over 15 fights, including 14 national championships and three Junior Olympic national titles. He is currently ranked fourth in his division in the USA. His dedication to both academics and sports is evident, as he maintains a 4.0 GPA while excelling in boxing.
The citation also acknowledged the legacy of Aaron's late brother, Maximus, whose memory is honored through the Maximus Boxing Gym, founded by their father, Aaron Garcia Senior. The gym serves as a safe haven for youth, teaching self-confidence and resilience to those who have faced bullying.
In addition to Aaron Junior, the citation recognized his siblings, including Maxine, who has achieved 11 national championships and multiple accolades in boxing. The Garcia family has been recognized by USA Boxing as the most decorated boxing family in the country, underscoring their impact on the sport and their commitment to youth development.
The motion to honor the Garcia family was passed unanimously, with the speaker set to sign the citation. The House expressed gratitude for the family's contributions to sportsmanship and community building, emphasizing their role as an inspiration to young people in Utah and beyond.