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(OCT 25) At the National USA Boxing Convention, the final decision for
women being in the Olympics in China in 2008 is "Supposed" to be made
October 28, 2005. If it is approved on this date, it will consist of 4
weight classes of 8 boxers in each class ONLY (32 boxers). It will be a
medal sport--not exhibition. USA Boxing at the annual meeting passed
legislation removing gender differences. Men and women now have the same
number of 8 counts to terminate a bout, and with computer scoring, there
must be a 20 point spread before a bout is terminated. Previously it was
2 counts in a round and 3 in a bout for women v. 3 in a round v. 4 in a
bout for men; also 15 point spread for women v. 20 point spread for men.
This demonstrates that USA Boxing is moving in a positive direction
towards gender equity.
Rule Changes: Biggest thing is that EXCEPT for weight classes, all
technical aspects for the rules will be the same for women as for the
men which means from here on out, it will take 3 standing 8-counts in a
round to elimiate a boxer and 4-8 counts in an entire fight--just like
it says in the men's rule.
In addition, the open division for women will have 4, 2-min rounds as
opposed to 3, 2-min rounds as in the past.
Lastly, a CONGRATULATIONS to Bill Mertz who
was elected the new president of USA Boxing. Pollack said, "
Couldn't have happened to a more deserving, hard working, selfless,
dedicated guy. Bill has the people skills combined with the
understanding of the perspectives of athletes and coaches to be a good
leader for this organization."
Contributors: Tom Morates, Adam Pollack,
Krysti Rosario |
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