Note from Coach!!

AFA Boxing Alumni,

Welcome back! Classes started August 7th and I was delighted to welcome aboard new assistant coach Lt. Blake Baldi. Blake is a grad of the class of 2005 and brings a wing open championship and national championship at 147 lbs to the program. In short, he has not stopped smiling since his arrival and neither have I. Blake is replacing Erwin Vargas who now resides in Sin City Las Vegas with his new bride Courtney.

The month of August was spent getting adjusted to classes and getting back in shape from a long summer. We had sporadic workouts but turned up the heat after Parent’s Weekend in September and the team has started to take shape and come around. Intramurals started September 6th and with the teams formulated we began competitions on the 17th. The first big test of the season comes October 3rd when we host Navy in the Cadet Gym Upper Boxing Room with a 430 PM start time. There are 11 bouts slated, featuring 2 defending National Champions from Navy and 1 from Air Force. A special highlight will be the new TRANSCOM commander, General Duncan McNabb attending the matches as a special guest of the Falcon boxing program. General McNabb was class of 1974 and 2 time Wing Open champ in 1971 and 1974.

The following Friday the 10th of October will be the start of Friday Night Fights and the formation of the champion and challengers board. The next major event will be in Detroit on October 24th when the Flacons will square off with Army and Navy at the Detroit Athletic Club. The Flacons will turn immediately around and head to Army to box the Black Knights on October 31st. The fall season will culminate with the NCBA Invitational in New York City November 24th at the New York Athletic Club. You can see our entire schedule on the AF sports website at www.goairforcefalcons.com.

I am always excited and proud to welcome back the various classes during their homecoming reunions. This past weekend, I enjoyed the class of 1978 and 1973. It is amazing how 30 and 35 years respectively, can change a person. Visiting with former Wing Open champions like Leon Peck, Vince Wisniewski, and John Blecher was a highlight. Looking forward to seeing and visiting with all upon your return to USAFA. Please keep in touch.

On a personal note, I will be traveling to Las Vegas to attend the AFA vs. UNLV football game on October 18th. AFA Boxing alumnus Clay Vertrees will again host his traditional outstanding tailgate for all Falcon fans in attendance. If interested, please contact Coach Baldi at blake.baldi@usafa.edu.

A reminder that Sheri and I relocated in July of 2007, our new address 1405 Seasons Grove, Colorado Springs, CO 80907. Work Ph: 719-333-2766. Cell Ph: 719-660-5868
Email: edward.weichers@usafa.edu


“Tough times don’t last, tough people do.”

In your corner,
Coach