"Men & Women of Distinction: Ray Rodgers" will premiere on the Arkansas Educational Television Network at 6:30 p.m. Monday.
This installment of "Men & Women of Distinction" tells the story of Arkansas Sports Hall of Famer Ray Rodgers, who has dedicated more than 70 years of his life to boxing, from amateur boxer to coach to the top leadership posts in the sport. His skills as a "cutman" are legendary, and he's worked in the corners of some of professional boxing's greatest champions, a news release said.
Rodgers was born in Oklahoma but moved to Conway as a child. In fifth grade, he was introduced to boxing and has been hooked ever since. He spent 14 years as an amateur, and at age 16, while still an amateur fighter himself, began coaching younger kids. "He relished the role and expanded it over the years -- coaching countless youngsters out of his own Little Rock gym and presiding over both the national Silver and Golden Glove organizations. His dedication to youth is further demonstrated by the 'Golden Gloves Education Center' he opened next door to the gym, which serves as a quiet place for the kids to study," the release said.
"In the early amateur days, before headgear became mandatory, coaches had to take care of cuts that would open up on fighters. Over time, Rodgers developed his own technique and was soon sought after in the professional ranks for his talents. Today, he is known throughout the sport as one of the best cutmen and has traveled the globe, working for some of the most recognizable fighters in the game. To date, he has been in the corner for more than 50 championship fights," it said.
"Men & Women of Distinction: Ray Rodgers" will repeat Sunday, Nov. 18, at 11 p.m. The film is produced by Jon Renfroe.
"Men & Women of Distinction" features interviews with prominent Arkansans known for their citizenship, character and accomplishments. The series has previously featured, among others, former governors and U.S. Sens. David Pryor and Dale Bumpers; former U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Joycelyn Elders; former Gov. Sid McMath; Judge Morris Arnold; fashion designer Korto Momolu; poet Miller Williams; artist Gene Hatfield; and Tuskegee Airman Milton Crenchaw.
Entertainment on 11/11/2018