Council recognizes collegiate and community boxing programs, awards scholarships to student athletes

Councilmember Hugo Soto‑Martinez on Friday recognized a coalition of collegiate and community boxing programs and presented scholarships to students, saying the programs provide mentorship and pathways to education for Los Angeles youth.

The presentation honored USC Trojan Boxing Club, leaders from El Centro del Pueblo and the Pico Union Boxing Club and coaches including Omar Lopez, who told the council, “Boxing has a unique ability to transform lives because it demands honesty, humility, courage and self‑reflection.” Lopez, introduced as a USC coach and assistant dean, said the program links campus resources with neighborhood youth.

Nancy Rodriguez, introduced by Soto‑Martinez as the founder of Supreme Boxer and a longtime community coach, described boxing as a lifeline. “Boxing saved my life,” Rodriguez said, and framed the scholarships and belt ceremony as part of a broader effort to couple athletics with education and mentorship.

Daisy Garcia, founder of the Pico Union program, and student recipients including Elvin Coke and other scholars spoke about the program’s role in keeping young people focused on school and opportunity. Garcia said the effort aims to make training and college preparation accessible to students from Lincoln Heights, Pico Union and South Los Angeles.

The council framed the recognition as part of the city’s investment in youth programs funded through discretionary and grant programs in the municipal budget. Councilmembers from across the chamber praised the coaches’ community work and noted that budget support helps keep after‑school programs available to families.

The presentation concluded with certificates for the coaches and student athletes and applause from council members and the audience. No formal council action was taken on the program during the meeting.