GYAC: 75 Years of Boxing, Mentorship & Second Chances
On this episode of Galesburg's Morning News, we go ringside with the Galesburg Youth Athletic Club—a 75-year Duncan family legacy that’s more than just boxing.
Guests:
- Rich Norton, President
- Jordan Mack, Head Coach (GYAC since age 5)
- Shirley Chu, Owner of Tres Cafe & host of Carlos Duncan Day
Highlights:
- Carlos Duncan Day Fundraiser – Saturday, Nov. 15, 4–8 p.m. at Tres Cafe (1135 Lincoln St.): $10 chicken & noodle dinner, silent auction, 50/50 raffle. 100% of proceeds stay local. Delivery available.
- GYAC Mission: Olympic-style boxing for ages 8+, teaching discipline, respect, and focus—85% of kids never compete, they just train for life.
- Cost? $65/year max—no kid turned away (Carlos Duncan’s rule).
- Teen Court Partnership: Kids fulfill community service in the gym—cleaning, training, earning second chances.
- Club Size: 200 registered last year (2nd largest in Illinois). 25–30 kids per session.
- Recent Wins: 2 of 3 boxers victorious in Sandusky, Ohio. Next up: Silver Gloves in Rockford, Nov. 22–23.
Legacy Moment:
Carlos Duncan—calm, kind, impossible to say “no” to—led GYAC for 30 years. He had his own booth at Tres Cafe.
“We don’t fight. We box. It’s about being better—for others and for yourself.”— Jordan Mack, Head Coach
How to Join or Help:
- Training: Mon/Wed/Fri, 5:30–7 p.m. @ 64 S. Prairie St (4th floor, Weinberg Arcade)
- Try a day free—just show up.
- Connect: Facebook/Instagram (“We Love the Box”) or search “Galesburg Youth Athletic Club”
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