Four of five Socorro boxers returned home with victories after a trip to the School of Hard Knocks Invitational in Hobbs on Saturday, Nov. 21.

Jesus Escobedo (2-0), age 13, Gabe Sanchez (1-1), age 11, and Jason Allison (1-0), age 11, all won by unanimous decision. Matthew Moore (2-0) didn't fight, but was credited with a walkover win because his opponent was disqualified before the match, due to an out-of-date passbook.

"Every kid they fought had way more fights than they did — I was impress with them," said boxing coach David Castillo. "That's what I like about going to eastern New Mexico is you see a lot of kids that you don't see otherwise."

Only three boxing teams at the Hobbs tournament were from New Mexico, Castillo said, and 17 were from Texas.

Monique Maez (2-2) lost by split decision to an opponent she had defeated three weeks prior.

"Monique had an off day. Before she got in the ring even she looked off," Castillo said.

The match was the first for the promising young Jason.

"He's got that look in his eye that he's going to be someone," Castillo said.

The sentiment was echoed by another boxing coach Ray Zamora, who noted that Jason didn't flinch at all during his fight.

Attentiveness helped Gabe earn a win in his second outing.

"Gabe is like a cool little cat - he is the calmest kid. That's what you need — to listen," Castillo said.

While Moore was disappointed that he missed engaging his opponent in the ring, he is looking forward to his next opportunity.

"My grandpa - he's my motivation. He passed away a year ago, but he was the first one I asked if I should (box) and he said, 'Yeah,'" Moore said.

Jesus, Gabe and Jason are three of the boxers from Socorro planning to attend the New Mexico Silver Gloves Tournament held Dec. 10-12 in Las Vegas, N.M.

Castillo said he has been making and selling chile rellenos to help raise funds to take to the trio to the tournament.

Interested boxers or others who want to support the club are invited to stop by the gym, at 105 Francisco de Avondo, near Parkview Elementary, after 5:30 p.m. on weekdays.