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Former heavyweight boxing champion James “Bonecrusher” Smith was at Booker T. Washington High on Thursday.
He was there to speak to students as part of the Stay In School-Career Awareness Program presented by Sports Inside and Out (SIO) at Legends of Sports. Created to empower young people to become successful leaders in our community, promoted by SIO and sponsored by the United States Army.
Booker T. Washington was part of a national tour that included a visit to Norview High on Friday.
Smith, who held the World Boxing Association heavyweight title from 1986 to 1987, said, “I attended events when I was younger. It made an impression on me.” I got to spend time with Ali, and it’s always a big deal when you’re young and you get the chance to hang out with legends.”
The event was hosted by Charlie Hatcher, Executive Producer and Host of Sports Inside and Out — Legends of Sports Show. Hatcher starred in Noview and was the first black high school player to be named “Most Outstanding Basketball Player” in Norfolk.
“It’s the kickoff of the Legends of Sports national tour,” Hatcher said. “With what we do, we want to make sure we give [students] Every opportunity to succeed. ”
Another guest was former quarterback Johnny Walton. He starred at Elizabeth City State University and Philadelphia where he played for the Eagles and in 4 of his seasons he appeared in 15 games.
“I’m honored to be here,” he said. “I want to help young people and follow a path that leads them to a career. It’s very important. Hopefully someone will receive something.”
Smith, who boxed from 1981 to 1999, says events like this are very important for inspiring young people.
Students had the opportunity to hear many stories from Smith, including the origins of his famous nicknames.
“I hit hard,” he said.
He, along with Hatcher and Walton, hope the students will take something from the event.
“I hope they make good decisions,” said Smith, who wrote the book “MAD: Make a Decision.” “The decisions you make today can be a good deal or a bad deal, depending on what you decide to do, so you need to make good decisions.”
Larry Lubama, 757-575-6449, [email protected] Follow @LHRubama on Twitter.
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