A Young Boxer’s Journey
Bacardy Conard stood in the ring, fully engaged, with her eyes locked in and fists ready.
Despite her flushed face, the 12-year-old from Etna remained undeterred, continuing to unleash punch after punch, deftly moving her feet and shoulders until the final bell rang.
Her efforts were rewarded with a sense of achievement, a refreshing drink, and praise from her coach, Jose Caraballo of Sharpsburg.
Bacardy was among a small group of young fighters who persevered through a training session at the Ray Schafer Boxing Association on April 2. Situated above the Sharpsburg VFW Post 709 on Main Street, the club continues the legacy of the late O’Hara police chief by nurturing young talent.
“I was always interested in boxing,” Bacardy remarked. “It teaches me how to defend myself and stand up for what I believe in.” This Shaler Area School District student noted that boxing practice has not only boosted her self-confidence but also enhanced her performance in sports and academics.
Her mother, Kim Bujak, learned about the association through family friend Ilias Caraballo, a three-time Golden Gloves champion and the wife of Jose Caraballo. “I was explaining how Bacardy enjoys various sports like football and soccer when Ilias mentioned boxing. We came to check it out, and she loved it. It even helps her with her footwork in football,” Bujak shared, noting her daughter’s growing self-assurance since joining earlier this year.
Currently, 12 to 24 athletes aged 8 to 12 from various school districts train in the co-ed program led by former pro boxers Jose and Ilias Caraballo. The two trainers guide the youngsters through a series of exercises that include heavy bag work, jumping, calisthenics, and more, with only a clock to signal changes in training activities.
“Kids arrive shy and leave strong,” said Jose Caraballo. “It fosters self-focus and personal growth. The effort you put in directly correlates to the rewards you gain. The kids genuinely enjoy coming here and learn that in boxing, the journey of learning never ends.”
A Legacy of Sportsmanship
Established in 2008 after Ray Schafer’s passing, the boxing club continues a mission that began years prior when Schafer founded the Police Athletic Club to provide an outlet for at-risk teens. Initially hosted at the Pleasant Valley Fire Department, the gym later moved to its current location above the Sharpsburg VFW.
Jose Caraballo fondly remembers Schafer as a community pillar who affected countless lives, including his own as someone who trained at the gym before taking it over. “I’m honored to carry on his legacy and continue to meet the community’s needs,” he stated.
Notably, the boxing ring is part of a rich history, having hosted battles at Forbes Field, including the renowned July 1951 match between Ezzard Charles and “Jersey” Joe Walcott, where Walcott triumphed to become world heavyweight champion. The legendary Bruno Sammartino has also graced this ring, his photo proudly displayed in the gym.
The gym’s ring, adorned with red and blue posts, black ropes, and a red canvas, serves as a reminder of its historical significance and the commitment to nurturing young champions both inside and outside the ring.
Enhancing Youth Development
In 2013, the association expanded its programs to include preteens. In 2017, Ilias Caraballo refined training methods from longer, open sessions to focused one-hour classes tailored for specific age groups. The gym accommodates young boxers on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, separating sessions for youths and older boxers.
“Instead of broad, extended hours, we’ve structured the schedule to maximize effectiveness,” Ilias explained. “Ladies’ classes on Tuesdays and Thursdays have also enhanced our offerings.” Her passion for working with youth shines through as she emphasizes the importance of boxing in building confidence and discipline, creating an environment where youth feel empowered to face challenges.
Training costs for youth range from $60 to $85 monthly, depending on attendance frequency, with single sessions priced at $15. For further details, visit facebook.com/RaySchaferBoxing or call 412-853-4704.
Michael DiVittorio is a TribLive reporter focusing on general news in Western Pennsylvania, as well as festivals and food. He can be reached at mdivittorio@triblive.com.
