More Than 40 Years of Boxing History in Val Caron

The rich history of Boxing in Valley East began when Bill Rannelli Sr opened the doors to the Valley East Boxing Club in 1972. Since then, the name "Rannelli" and Boxing have been synonymous with one another in Valley East. In its over 40 years of existence, it has served many talented youth in our community by providing fitness classes and teaching the skills required to become a competitive boxer. Many legendary champions were produced during this period of existence, none more recognizable than the Rannelli brothers; Bill Jr, Rick, Dan and Chris.

From 1975-77, it was the center for all clubs in Sudbury and was named the Sudbury Regional Boxing Club. In the fall of 1977, it reclaimed its original name; The Valley East Boxing Club, and has never turned back! It was known then, and still is, for its first class coaching. Names like Bill Rannelli Sr., David Leggett, Mike Rosko and Peter Yannacoureas were and are some of the best coaches in this country.

During the 70s, the VEBC was host to a number of boxing events, namely the Ontario Championships and the Canadian Qualification for the 1976 Olympics which were held in Montreal Canada. The club welcomed fighters throughout North America for several high profile club fights.

This Club was the best in Canada, and produced more champions than any other at the time, such as the Leggett brothers (Steve, Mike and David Jr.), Floyd Jeanveau, Arvo Punkinnen, Dave Jamerozik, Gordon Apolloni, Walter Neville, Gill Bisaillon, Roger Fitzpatrick and Phil Boudreault. Because of this success, the coaches were able to accompany their boxers with the National Team, which provided them the opportunity to travel around the Globe, expanding their knowledge even further.

Thanks to the continued efforts of Coaches Bill Rannelli Jr., Peter Yannacoureas, Stuart Mitchell, Lorne Ramanko and Mike Stewart the Valley East Boxing Club continues to thrive today, 40+ years later! It's now up to the current members to write the next chapters in VEBC's legacy...and thanks to this great team of coaches and volunteers, the story continues....