SPQR, short for Senatus Populusque Romanus, meaning “The Senate and the People of Rome” was emblazoned on the standards and shields of the Roman Legions. Like today’s American warriors, the Roman Legionaire believed that his power derived from the people. He was not their master, as is true in dictatorship, but rather he served them – he placed his life in their hands.
While the flexibility of their formations and the discipline of their troops was formidable, many believe that the indomitable spirit of the Roman Army was their true strength. Built on the belief that they were fighting for the greater good of the Roman people and the state, the Roman Legionaries were a nightmare for those that stood in their path and are still the model for discipline and strength in military units.
Matt Phinney featured in an article after his third fight in the 2010 Golden Gloves Tournament resulting in a first round knockout. View the full article here, at the Lowell Sun website.
Matt Phinney was featured in an article from the Lowell Sun after his second fight in the 2010 Golden Glove Tournament. Click here to view the article.
Mike Vongsavath started training under Matt Phinney just over a year ago. In his first official fight at Manfredo’s Gym in Rhode Island today, Mike defeated a more experienced fighter in a three round fire fight. Both Mike and his opponent traded power punches from the opening bell. Mike worked more proficiently by blasting away at his opponents mid section as well as attacking his head. The fight was a back and forth slugfest until Mike scored a knockdown near the end of round one from a left hook in an exchange. This prompted Mike to try and finish his opponent in the first. The second round was more of the same with no beats skipped from either fighter. Mike again maintained control of the fight by landing often and clean with both hands. The third round saw both young fighters battling to out will the other. Again, it was Mike Vongsavath controlling the fight with continuous movement and vicious body punches. The official decision came at the end of three rounds, a unanimous decision to Mike Vongsavath. It was clear the young boxer’s fans were in the house today and he certainly walked away with a few more than he arrived with. At 14 years old and only one official fight, Mike has the ring generalship of a veteran boxer. No doubt we will be seeing this young man’s name more frequently and in bolder print.
