Policy change knocks out Silver State Rumble

The boxing ring at the Stewart Gym will remain empty this Nevada Day after a policy change by the state resulted in the cancellation of the Silver State Rumble boxing card.

The tournament has been held for the past six years at the gym, located in the Stewart Indian Colony. The event has been one of the two main events put on by Bruno's Boxing Club, a nonprofit organization that teaches physical fitness and strength training aimed at teenagers.

In June, the state buildings and grounds department closed the gym on weekends because of a lack of manpower to staff and maintain the facility.

"We just don't have the people to be able to keep the gym open on weekends. The lack of manpower prevents us from using it," said Cindy Edwards, Building and Grounds administrator.

Club founder Victor Bruno said he is disappointed for the kids he trains, because they look forward to being able to get in the ring and compete.

"It's not all about the boxing. What we do is teach tough discipline. You have to be in physical shape to do this. You can't smoke and drink and be in the gym every day," Bruno said.

One of Bruno's main concerns is the financial implications the rumble's cancellation has on the club.

"It was one of our two biggest events. We don't charge the kids to train with us, so the only revenue we have is from our events," Bruno said. "Because of this, we won't have that."

Bruno said that because of the late notice, he wasn't able to secure another venue to put on the rumble but said he will continue to offer training at the Stewart Gym during the week.

• Contact reporter Jarid Shipley at jshipley@nevadaappeal.com or 881-1217.