Aryn Pajak of the Trenton Boxing Club competed in the National Silver Gloves Tournament in Independence from Wednesday, January 30th through Saturday, February 2nd. The tournament consisted of all regional champions in each weight class, from the 8 regions. Every state in the US was represented at the tournament.
Pajak, fighting in the 9-10 year old, 90 pound division was able to draw a bye on the first night of competition, putting him into the semifinals on Friday. Here he would face off with Prodigy Shepherd of New York City. Pajak, with the slight height and reach advantage, utilized a good controlled jab and set the pace of the fight from the get go. Nice combinations, and a very strong 3rd round, assured Pajak the unanimous decision and moved him to the finals on Saturday.
In the finals, Pajak would be up against Luis Vasquez, from El Monte, California. Vasquez, a very seasoned fighter, and much different style then Shepherd, and brought the fight to Pajak. Pajak adjusted well, and stayed calm and was able to pivot off the jab and score nice hooks. It was a very good back and forth match, with each fighter displaying moments of heart and guts, digging down deep. When the final bell rang, the score cards had Vasquez winning a split decision 3-2.
Pajak and teammate Parker Findley will next be in action Saturday, February 16th in Mason City, Iowa.
