 1997
Community Service Award
Rose Byrd
While it is not unusual to find a father in his son's corner during
a fight, it is quite a different story when it comes to the fighter's
mom. This may seem odd to some people, but to the Byrd's it just illustrates
how close the family is and how much love each has for the other -
they wouldn't have it any other way.
Mrs. Byrd received her coaching license 25 years ago. Slowly she started
to get involved with her husband and the boys. Ever since then she
has been an active role in her sons' training. She said that helps
the apprehension out of watching them in the ring. Rose has adjusted
over the years. That adjustment also started early as she helped Joe
Sr. train while he fought professionally. But Rose said her connection
with the sport began even before she and her husband met. It began
with her grandfather who would listen to Joe Louis on the radio. She
never dreamed of having a family full of boxers. Mrs. Byrd has been
there for her boxing family mentally, physically and spiritually throughout
their boxing days. All in all, the sport of boxing is a big part of
her life.
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