Pontiac Times

A man who won the 2022 Golden Gloves of America tournament was honored during a recent Pontiac School District board meeting.

Kentrell Rouser is a recent graduate of the Pontiac School District. He won the Golden Boy Award at the tournament in August. Rouser proved himself as the best amateur boxer in his weight class. He also was chosen as the outstanding boxer of the year from all weight classes.

"I would like to thank y'all for honoring me, too, because my whole life I've been a part of [the] Pontiac School District, and I do want to bring light to the city, let people know that it is good coming out of this city in a different way," Rouser said. "So, I appreciate y'all; I thank y'all. I'll continue to keep God first, chase my dreams, and be positive. Thank you."

The school board brought Rouser to the meeting to recognize him for his accomplishments and how he represents the entire Pontiac community. He also is a mentor for current students and athletes. Principal Lee Montgomery introduced Rouser to the board and said he was a respectable, responsible, and kind student when he was in school.

Rouser's father, Kentrell Rouser, Sr., also spoke at the request of the board. He said he was motivated to coach and encourage Rouser and his other children because he wanted to make a change and create a legacy.

"What I always dreamed of was bringing light to my family – not only my family, [but] the city as well," Rouser, Sr. said. "My goal was always to build something to where I could make and build strong youth."

Rouser, Sr. said he hopes to one day have a gym where he can encourage and shape more young people in Pontiac.