Like father, like son

Boxing at Bancroft-Kent Community Center in 1980

6/19/2017

Honoring fatherhood is celebrated internationally. On various days and in different parts of the world, families unify to give recognition to fathers. Fatherhood encompasses a combination of dedication, mentorship, and unconditional love.

This Blade archive photo taken by Dave Cron shows son Marvin Richardson, second from right, and father Bill Richardson, second from left. 

Richardson is aiming a punch at Frank Reyes, head coach of boxers at Bancroft-Kent Community Center. The far right of the photo shows Robert Easter, Sr. 

PHOTO GALLERY: Pictures of the Week for June 12-18, 2017

Marvin and Robert won national silver gloves titles in Iowa days before the photo was taken on Feb. 11, 1980.

The Bancroft-Kent Community Center opened on Dec. 5, 1968. It promoted a family-type recreation program for residents of the Warren-Sherman urban renewal area. 

The recreational center included programs such as nutrition classes, adult card playing, adjoining playground boxing, and more.

Currently, Toledo native Robert Easter, Jr., holds the IBF lightweight title and has zero losses. His father Robert Easter, Sr., has competed and won multiple matches across the United States. Robert Easter, Sr., is an active mentor to his son.

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