Roxie Verduzco of Sylmar was honored by the San Fernando City Council for winning a gold medal at USA Boxing’s 2015 Junior Olympic and Prep National Championships held in Charleston, West Virginia in June.
Verduzco won the intermediate female division (95-pounds) with a second round technical knockout of her opponent, Lakandra Watson of Lubbock, TX.
“The San Fernando City Council is honored to commend you on your courage, determination and commitment, in achieving this monumental effort,” said Councilmember Robert Gonzalez while presenting Verduzco with an award of excellence at the council meeting on Monday, Aug. 17.
“We are proud that you represent the youth of our community, and may your example set a high bar for the aspiring boxers in our community who will soon follow you. Congratulations on your momentous achievement.”
Verduzco’s mother Gloria Mosquera, co-owner of the Young Champions Boxing Gym in San Fernando, told the council, “I think it’s wonderful thing that you guys acknowledge wonderful youth. She’s worked very hard. My uncle (and former pro boxer) Blinky Rodriguez — most of you probably know who he is — has always inspired us and my daughter to achieve our goals live the legacy of our family.
Verduzco, 13, also thanked the council for “the great honor,” and said how winning an Olympic medal is her goal.
“I am the fourth generation fighter in my family,” she said “My family has been my biggest idols and supporters starting off with my aunt, a legend, Lilly Rodriguez. My uncle Blinky Rodriguez has been to most of my fights. And Uncle (and former pro karate fighter) Benny Urquidez, who always inspires me to be the best of the best.
“And I want to thank one more person — my mom. She pushes me to do more and want more. inspires me to do and want more. She packs my bag, combs my hair nice, to always say ‘hello, ‘thank you’ and ‘please’ and makes me smile.”
— Mike Terry