BOWLING GREEN, Ky. — The coach of BGKY Boxing Club has been preparing his athletes for this summer’s championship.

The championship will be at the Sloan Convention Center on Saturday, June 15 at 4:00 p.m.

Coach and owner Zhock Mason said he’s spent countless hours preparing his athletes for the defensive side of the ring.

“We work a lot of the defensive movements, which is something really important if you’re trying to understand the sport,” Mason said.

And countless hours on the offensive side of the ring.

“We make sure people are putting their weight behind their punching, and landing with their fist properly,” Mason said. “Keep their elbows tight, move with their head and have fundamental feet.”

Many of his athletes are taking part in the championship, and he said events like these are unforgettable.

“There’s a lot of authenticity to this stuff,” Mason said. “There’s good music, good fights, good entertainment.”

Those interested in watching the sparring can get in for just $20.

“If you come out, you’d probably say, ‘Man, that was a really good deal and a really good time,’” Mason said. “There’s no way you’re not gonna have a good time if you come out.”

Mason has been a staple to the boxing community in Bowling Green for years.

But what does he like most about it? Well, even though winning titles is nice, Mason said the most rewarding part is seeing his athletes grow.

“I’ve been coaching them for years and it’s nice to see I’m helping them get better at everything they need to get better at in boxing,” Mason said. “I get to watch their skills grow as a boxer, and watch their confidence grow. Make them realize how much work is put into it. Their reward is my reward.” 

Mason also likes to serve as more than a coach. While in the gym, he helps athletes through difficult triumphs, while also creating a brotherly bond within his boxing community.

One boxer, Trisan Applewhite, even said Mason helped him after his father had passed away.

Another athlete stated that the bond of sweat, blood and tears being shed in the ring strengthens their brotherhood.

Mason also emphasizes the idea that sports like boxing can help teach people valuable life lessons.

“Life and boxing, they go hand in hand,” Mason said. “Humility is what you learn. Losses, you go through losses in life, you go through losses in boxing. It all goes hand in hand. You just have to get back up and keep going through it.”