Micky Ward, born Michael Gerard Ward on October 4, 1965, in Lowell, Massachusetts, is an inspirational figure not only in the world of boxing but also as an embodiment of resilience and determination. Teaching students about Micky Ward can serve as a powerful lesson on staying true to one’s goals through thick and thin.
Early Life and Career
Growing up in a struggling working-class family, Ward faced his fair share of adversities from an early age. Despite his challenging circumstances, he developed a love for boxing and began training with his older brother, Dicky Eklund. And so, began an incredible journey towards becoming a professional boxer. Ward’s perseverance and dedication towards the sport allowed him to make his professional debut in 1985.
The Struggles and Comeback
Throughout his career, Micky Ward faced numerous setbacks that could have ended his boxing career. From droughts of fight offers to sustaining injuries and experiencing losses inside the ring – life was not easy for him. However, he never gave up and returned even stronger after each setback.
Ward managed a spectacular comeback with his no-quit attitude in 1997 after two years away from the sport. His epic battles with other renowned fighters showcased both his exceptional boxing skills as well as the importance of putting up a relentless fight in the face of adversity.
Notable Achievements
Micky Ward’s most memorable matches were against Arturo Gatti – a trilogy that remains etched into boxing history. These action-packed bouts demonstrated determination, sportsmanship, and mutual respect between the fighters. Ward retired from boxing with an impressive record of 38 wins (27 by knockouts), 13 losses, and one draw.
In 2010, Ward’s life story was turned into a Hollywood film titled “The Fighter,” starring Mark Wahlberg and Christian Bale. The film received critical acclaim and introduced Ward’s inspiring journey to a brand-new audience.
Teaching Students About Micky Ward
Students can learn valuable life lessons from Micky Ward’s journey in boxing. His story highlights the importance of hard work, dedication, and resilience. Here are some ways to teach students about Micky Ward:
1. Show clips from the movie “The Fighter,” as it provides an emotional and gripping portrayal of Micky Ward’s life.
2. Discuss documentaries or articles that detail his boxing career, setbacks, and comebacks.
3. Encourage classroom discussions on facing adversity, overcoming obstacles, and the power of determination.
4. Share interviews of Micky Ward that showcase his humility, sportsmanship, and work ethic.
5. Organize project presentations where students research various aspects of Micky Ward’s life and share insights with their peers.
Conclusion
Teaching students about Micky Ward is a powerful way to impart lessons on persevering in the face of adversity and staying dedicated to one’s dreams. His real-life challenges serve as a reminder to students that success seldom comes easy but is achievable through consistent effort and unyielding determination.
