Winchester To Host Boxing Event on Saturday

The Winchester Field Development Council will hold a night of boxing matches on Saturday, Nov. 19 at 7 p.m. at to help raise money for Phase 2 of the renovation project.

The event, which will pit seven pugilists from New England against those from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, N.Y., is expected to bring in $40,000 to $50,000 to help according to Athletic Director Brian Carroll.

Former World Boxing Union (WBU) champion, Lowell’s own Micky Ward, who was the subject of the 2010 film, “The Fighter,” will be in attendance as will Winchester’s own Luca LoConte-Botis, who will fight in a special bout.

“It’s important to know that [the council] is doing everything it can to raise money for the project on its own,” Carroll said.

Earlier this month, Renovation Project.

The town put about $1 million toward Phase 1, which was completed in November 2009. The council had planned on completing Phase 2, which includes the construction of a state-of-the-art track and turf field, solely with private funds. However, it now believes it needs $200,000 from the town to help finish out its fundraising efforts.

“We really need this infusion of contributions to get to the finish line,” said Chris Costello of the Winchester Field Development Council (WFDC).

Even with the requested town funds, the council still needs an additional $400,000 to complete Phase 2, about the same amount of money it has already raised for the second phase.

“We’re hoping to leverage the remaining contributions necessary to complete the Manchester Field project,” said Selectman Thomas Howley.

Carroll said certain features, like some sodding, fencing and a scoreboard, have been taken out of Phase 2 to lower its cost. He said the hope is that individual investors will sponsor those elements of the project.

Tickets are limited and may be purchased in advance by contacting Paul Manganaro at pmanganaro@manganaro.com or Lisa at lisa.basile@comcast.net. There will be limited tickets available at the door. Tickets are $25 for general admission and $40 for reserved floor seating.