CHICAGO — Doghouse Crossfit Kids Boxing Club will host a "fight night" Saturday for students to show off their newly-acquired self-defense skills.
Run by volunteer coaches with law enforcement and military backgrounds, the club, 5820 N. Northwest Highway, is designed to teach members self-defense while building their confidence and self-esteem through boxing, kickboxing and wrestling, founder Steve Linder said.
The students, ranging from ages 5-15, learn techniques from instructors with backgrounds in Judo, Boxing, Wrestling, MMA, Kickboxing, Tae Kwon Do, Grappling and Muy Thai. The program has 115 students enrolled, with another 120 on a waiting list, Linder said.
Saturday's event runs from 6-10 p.m. at the Irish American Heritage Center, 4626 N. Knox Ave.
Participants will wear headgear, mouthpieces and gloves, Linder said, adding that referees and judges will be on hand in an effort to prevent injury. The evening will be capped off by a three-round fight between two "local law enforcement officers."
Food and beverages will be sold at the event. No charge will be collected at the door, but visitors will be asked to donate to help pay for new equipment.
More than 300 spectators showed up to the previous "fight night" event in March, with Ald. Anthony Napolitano (41st) and State Rep. Michael McAuliffe (R-Norwood Park) turning in appearances, Linder said.
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