Page 9 - Florida Sentinel 8-24-18

Feature
Young Athlete Setting Examples For Others
BY IRIS B. HOLTON SentinelCityEditor
Most youngsters want to experience different activi- ties. Once they become in- volved in the activity, however, he or she may soon lose interest and be ready to move on to something else.
But others, like Darrion “Lil Man” McNeal, find something they like and re- main true to it. Two years ago, Lil Man decided he wanted to be a boxer.
So, after speaking with his parents, Ms. Mar- shanna Freeman and Darrion McNeal, his great grandfather, John Brooks, came out of retirement to coach and train Lil Man.
Brooks had operated the Brooks Boxing Gym for several years.
Now, at the age of 9, Lil Man is still not wavering from his goal. In fact, he is a 3 time gold medal winner and holds the Title Belt for the 70-pound category. His current record is 5-0.
Brooks said, Lil Man will defend his title on Sep- tember 15th at Reyes Hector Camacho Gym.
“I came out of retirement to train him. My goal is to build him up to be someone who other kids admire. He doesn’t walk around with his pants hanging down, his grades have improved, and he is mannerable, Brooks said.
training carries over into theireverydayworld.
“Kids need someone to get involved in their lives
and teach them to do what’s right,”hesaid.
DARRION “LIL MAN” MCNEAL
Brooks is very proud of the young man’s determina- tion and dedication. “He practices 5 days a week, and he is a hardworking young man. In fact, he works harder than some of the adults.”
Brooks said his goal is not only to shape him as a fighter, but he wants to shape him as a role model. He wants him to be a well- rounded young man that others will take notice of and want to imitate.
Lil Man has been on TV and on the radio and is doing a lot of positive things. He is planning on competing in the nationals as well.
In the boxing arena, ath- letes must be disciplined and willing to train hard and the
FRIDAY, AUGUST 24, 2018 FLORIDA SENTINEL BULLETIN PUBLISHED EVERY TUESDAY AND FRIDAY PAGE 9-A