IN THE COUNTY LEGISLATURE OF JACKSON COUNTY, MISSOURI
Title
A RESOLUTION recognizing Jerry Morales, former Golden Glove boxer, coach, and referee, for his contributions to our community.
Intro
RESOLUTION NO. 21393, September 11, 2023
INTRODUCED BY Manuel Abarca IV, County Legislator
Body
WHEREAS, Jerry Morales grew up in the heart of the Westside and spent his early years
working in the family business, before ultimately finding his calling in Golden Gloves amateur boxing; and,
WHEREAS, Jerry's dedication to the sport led him to the Pan America Boxing Club in Kansas City, Kansas, where, in his pre-teens, he embarked on his journey in amateur boxing, quickly making a name for himself; and,
WHEREAS, Jerry's remarkable talent was showcased in numerous Golden Gloves tournaments, notably in the 112-pound flyweight division, where he clinched championship titles at the Annual Kansas City Tournament in 1950, 1952, 1953, 1954, and 1956, and even advanced to the prestigious National Golden Gloves Tournament of Champions; and,
WHEREAS, Jerry eventually transitioned into professional boxing in 1957, amassing an impressive record in eight professional fights across the Midwest, leaving an indelible mark on the Kansas City sports scene; and,
WHEREAS, Jerry's dedication to boxing extended beyond the ring, as he embarked on a 58-year journey of giving back to the community, sharing his boxing knowledge with the youth of Kansas City, serving as an official, translator, referee, and two-time President of the Kansas City Golden Gloves, and being an instrumental figure in the success of the Guadalupe Boxing Club on the Westside; and,
WHEREAS, Jerry's influence transcended local boundaries, as he officiated numerous high-profile professional fights, highlighted by the 1974 exhibition match at Kemper Arena featuring legendary boxer Muhammad Ali; and,
WHEREAS, Jerry is most proud of his family, his beloved wife of nearly 70 years, Virginia, and their eleven children, f...
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