BoxRec

Wales wrote:A supposed recent pic of ike promoting his "get an education campaign". Ike is basically saying young athletes should get an education as he has just completed his in clink. he looks in okay shape to me.... if it is a recent pic?!?!?!???

“IF I CAN DO IT IN PRISON, YOU CAN DO IT ANYWHERE”

The best thing that ever happened to me in my life, either in or out of prison, was the opportunity to return to school and get an education. For 16 years now, since my last year in school, I never realized how satisfying it would be to complete my education. When I was not in prison, boxing prevented me from going back to school as I kept procrastinating, assuring myself that when my boxing career was over, I would go back to school.

I would later come to realize, that here in America, opportunity exists everywhere, even for those in prison. It was there, that I made the decision to make some positive changes in my life and finally indulge my desire to get an education. In fact, my efforts and desire in learning have kept me on the “Dean’s List” at Western Nevada Community College for two semesters in a row.

Nothing is as rehabilitating and refreshing as education. As a matter of fact, the very situation that led to my incarceration could have been avoided if I had learned then what I have learned now. Courses like psychology and communications have indeed enlightened me on how to socialize and interact with people in a positive way.

So I encourage anyone, especially young people out there who feel that athletics is all they need to become accomplished in life. While this may be partly true, athletics without education is a waste. I hate to cite instances but, it’s true. Nothing compares or even comes close to the empowerment of learning. Knowledge is power; and, good for everyone. And so I say to everyone, go to school!

- IKE IBEABUCHI