Peters donates van to boxers

The Shafter Boxing Club, headed up by Coach Mike Ayon, have been in need of a van for quite awhile now. They have traveled almost every weekend to different locales throughout the state. They also compete in tournaments across the United States, including Nevada, Kansas, West Virginia and Missouri.

Enter Rick Woody of Peters Funeral Home. Woody contacted Ayon and asked if they would be interested in having a van that the funeral home didn't need any more. Ayon said that they would be happy to take it and could put it to good use.

Tuesday afternoon at Mannel Park, during the club's regular work out, Woody showed up with a 2000 Chevrolet Express that will allow the kids to travel in style. Ayon said that on trips when they take a full team, it is hard to get all of the kids to the different places and venues. Now, they will be able to fit almost their entire team in one vehicle.

"I hope you guys enjoy this van and use it to help your club be even more productive. Have fun with it!" Woody said told the team members.

Ayon started the club several years ago, training the kids in his backyard and garage. They produced a couple of winners on the local and regional level, and this caught the attention of local politician Rudy Salas. Salas helped the club acquire workout space in a warehouse on Lerdo Highway. With help from local businesses and Salas, the warehouse was transformed into great training gym.

The club has continued to flourish with four more national winners and a couple of Silver Glove Boxing champions.

"I am so grateful to Rick and Peters Funeral Home for this gift. It will be such a blessing for the kids and will help them continue to grow as a club," Ayon said.