Throughout my years growing up, I was an avid Notre Dame football fan. It was always the topic of discussion in my house. I'd like to change that norm for myself for once and discuss and share my thought on the Bengal Bouts. This year marks the 81st Annual Bengal Bouts. As many people in the ND community are aware, the first preliminary rounds occurred on Sunday, Feb. 13th. With no surprise, they were exciting and entertaining. We see the culmination of months of hard work and determination duked out between two men strong enough to step in the ring. They have different styles, size and most importantly, "reach".
One thing however they do have in common, bravery. It is a true test of manhood to step in a ring a fellow boxer once told me. It's that one-on-one test to see what you are made of. This, I believe, is an achievement in itself. The Bengal Bouts promote physical toughness and builds character. Having had a brother fight in the bouts (2 time semi-finalist), I've seen my far share of great matches and boxers. One recent boxer that sticks out is Chris Perez. He was one of two guys to be a 4-time champion in ND history which was accomplished by flawless technique and quick hands. However, this year topped all other years past opening fights. They were some of the best fights I've ever seen, most going into split decisions.
But beyond two men plummeting each other to show there manliness and technique, or sometimes, lack there of, we must not over look the simple question: "Why do they fight?" Why get in a ring and risk a broken nose? Why try and humiliate your opponent by landing that haymaker? They do it for the people of Bangladesh and the Holy Cross Missions there. The way I see it, the participants of the Bengal Bouts do it for the support and promotion of the Missions, not their own self fulfillment. I hope you see the bouts and realize what a good cause it is and remember that "Strong bodies fight so that weak bodies may be nourished."
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Matthew Pepe
Social Foundations of Coaching
University of Notre Dame 2012
