GREAT Lakes YMCA boxers showed plenty of promise at last Saturday’s Taree PCYC fight night, and the Advocate’s not just saying that out of fear of meeting them in a dark alley.

Luke Ross, Beau Callaghan and Jake Loring had three very different fights, but each gave a good account of himself according to YMCA executive officer Len Newman.

“The trainers are doing a fantastic job. They boys are doing great, and we’re really happy with how they went,” he said.

Ross had an exhibition fight with Darren Bedford, which meant a few rounds of unscored action.

Most of the crowd were impressed by the training run.

Callaghan had a narrow points loss to Bankstown PCYC’s Vic D’Jaminez.

Newman said there is plenty of improvement left in Callaghan, who should go on to future wins.

Most pleasing of all was Jake Loring, who stopped Newcastle PCYC’s Adam Egan in the second round for a comprehensive win.

“That’s just Jake’s second fight, so he’s looking pretty good,” Newman said.

“All three of those guys have the place buzzing, especially Luke who has a reputation as an up-and-coming star. There’s a flow-on effect for the other kids who train there and get excited about these results.”

Ross’ father Martin is a former national champion, and trains at the centre. He said the YMCA is on the lookout for more juniors at Wednesday afternoon training.

“We take the under 14s at 4.30pm and the over 14s at 5.30 and it’s great to see so many kids getting involved,” he said.