Games of la
Francophonie
September 30 2009
The Father of Boxing
Sylvain Gagnon has been enjoying coaching for 32 years. He has seen quite a few boxers in his time, including Éric Lucas and Jean Pascal: two athletes who have certainly earned a reputation for themselves. His many years of experience have earned him his nickname, “the father of boxing.”
Sylvain is participating in the Games for his third time. He likes the atmosphere and the people he meets. “Representing Canada is important for me. Hearing the national anthem always gives me goose bumps."
He has come to Lebanon to match—if not improve upon—the team's performance at the Games of La Francophonie in Niger. In 2005, Team Canada brought home two bronze medals in boxing.
Sylvain is an optimist. His team is ready. During our interview, the team was training non-stop while he watched them. Nothing escaped his eye.
“A good boxer can adapt to any opponent. He has to be responsive,” he said. “You can recognize a good boxer by his work ethic and his determination.”