Copyright © 2003 NLThomas
All Rights Reserved

LtoR: Dakota Neconie, James Hansen and Dakota Mead all of Jay.

JAY, OKLAHOMA - James Hansen, a twenty-one year old from Jay is becoming well known in the world of amateur boxing. Hansen fights as a middleweight and light/heavy weight boxer. His amateur record is 8 wins with 8 knockouts, 2 losses and 1 draw.

"I became interested in boxing after studying five years of martial arts under Master Lee Snow," Hansen said.

After Hansen became interested in boxing, two of his high school friends suggested using Walt Loy, of Jay, as his trainer. Loy was previously a professional boxer who fought World Welterweight and Hall of Fame champion Carmen Bisilio in 1954. After Loy saw Hansen box, he saw potential in him and encouraged him to fight.

Loy has been Hansen's trainer since 1997. Loy also coaches Hansen's brother Josh Hansen, Dakota Mead, Ryder Haggard, and Dakota Neconie all of Jay. In 2000, Loy was named Oklahoma boxing coach of the year.

Hansen's training schedule consists of a lot of bag work, weight training and shadow boxing. He also does roadwork, rope skipping and sparring.

"Boxing is a tough sport and to succeed, one has to be dedicated and make a lot of sacrifices," Hansen said. "There are few fighters in Oklahoma and even fewer Native American fighters."

"I usually go in to the ring and see what style my opponent has and try to adapt to it," Hansen said.

Hansen plans on getting more experience as an amateur within the next year before moving on to the professional ranks.

Besides training and boxing, Hansen attends Northeastern State University full-time and works at the Cherokee Nation Sam Hider Clinic in Jay.

Even with this busy schedule, Hansen still finds time to perform community service at area schools. Hansen teaches physical fitness and provides boxing demonstrations for elementary and high school students. For the last six years, Hansen volunteered his time at the Cherokee Nation Summer Youth Fitness Camps (SYFC). The campers received his message well and many of the campers, especially the boys, have shown an interest in boxing and an increased interest in being physically fit. His spirit and endless enthusiasm for his sport makes him a perfect role model for the SYFC campers.

"My grandparents taught me to strive for tomorrow, but never forget the past," Hansen said. "When I am in the ring, I feel like I pay tribute to my ancestors and its their spirit that gives me the inspiration to succeed."