NEW ORLEANS — Two talented young athletes from the Spartan Boxing Club, a proud partner of the New Orleans Recreation Development (NORD) Commission who trains at NORD Commission’s Milne Recreation Center, were recognized by the New Orleans City Council for their participation in the 2024 USA Women’s Boxing Championship Tournament. The athletes, Daneia Mitchell and Sydni Johnson, continue to make strides in both athletics and academics, showcasing the positive impact of this partnership involving the city’s youth.
Daneia Mitchell, a student at Warren Easton Senior High School, made her national tournament debut in this year’s competition. She earned the Youth Female Novice title in the 139 lb. weight class. Training under the guidance of coaches Robert Armstrong and Leo Wilson, Daneia has rapidly advanced as a boxer since beginning in 2021. She also excels academically, maintaining a 3.75 GPA and earning membership in the National Honor Society.
Sydni Johnson, a student at St. Katherine Drexel Prep High School, claimed the title of Junior Female Novice Champion in the 145 lb. weight class. Sydni has been boxing for eight years, initially training with the late Coach William Montgomery, Jr., founder of Spartans Boxing Club. Sydni currently trains with coaches Isaac Knapper, Jay Daniels, and Malcolm Hughes. Along with her boxing success, Sydni has excelled academically, earning National Honor Society honors and making the Presidential Honor Roll multiple times.
Both athletes exemplify the success of NORD Commission’s athletic programs, which fosters not only athletic growth, but also academic and personal development, as well.
“We are deeply thankful to Mayor Cantrell and the New Orleans City Council for their continuous support of our city’s young people,” said Larry Barabino, Jr., NORD Commission’s CEO.
“The recognition of Daneia and Sydni is a testament to what is possible when our community invests in the potential of our youth. Your support empowers the next generation of leaders and champions.”
For more information on NORD Commission’s athletic programs or to learn more about Daneia and Sydni’s achievements, please visit www.nordc.org or call (504) 658-3052.
###