Steve Plevins, a remarkable figure in the boxing community, has recently been bestowed with the prestigious 2024 Boxing Man of the Year Award by the New Jersey Boxing Hall of Fame. His life's work is dedicated to serving communities and uplifting youth, with a special emphasis on the transformative power of boxing.

A Boxing Legend's Impact on Communities

Early Beginnings and Training

From a young age, Plevins was deeply involved in the world of boxing. From ages 10 to 15, he trained with amateur boxers, laying the foundation for his future in the sport. By 16, he was already volunteering at Ma Byrd's Training Camp in Pleasantville, NJ. Here, he had the privilege of working alongside boxing legends like Joe Frazier, Yank Durham, Emile Griffith, Gypsy Joe Harris, Ernie Terrell, and Stanley “Kitten” Hayward. This experience exposed him to the rich history and traditions of Philadelphia's boxing scene and instilled in him a passion for the sport that would last a lifetime.During this time, he witnessed firsthand the discipline and determination required to succeed in boxing. These early experiences shaped his approach to working with young people and inspired him to use boxing as a tool for personal growth and development.

Community Outreach and Impact

Plevins' commitment to community service began early on. As a community recreation director in Prince George’s County, Maryland, he supported the local boxing team that included the young Sugar Ray Leonard. He collaborated with Adrian Davis in a program in Bowie, Maryland, furthering his reach and impact.Later, as recreation director at the Vineland Children’s Residential Treatment Center, he made history by integrating boxing into the treatment and rehabilitation of troubled youth. His program secured state approval to take students to professional boxing workouts in Atlantic City, where they had the opportunity to train with celebrated fighters like Mike Tyson, Lennox Lewis, Shannon Briggs, Pernell Whitaker, Evander Holyfield, and George Foreman.The results of his program were remarkable. Many of the young participants did not return to state facilities, indicating the positive impact that boxing had on their lives. This initiative was a huge success and demonstrated Plevins' ability to use boxing as a means of helping at-risk youth.

Notable Initiatives and Recognition

One of Plevins' notable initiatives was “Broaden Your Horizons,” a five-day afterschool program centered on boxing. This program was recognized by Gov. Christie Whitman as the best in the state and eventually evolved into the Vineland Boys and Girls Club.In 2023, Plevins was honored before Congress for his enduring impact on the Vineland community. His numerous accolades celebrate his unwavering dedication to inner city and at-risk youth in Vineland. His work has touched the lives of many and has left a lasting legacy in the boxing community.Plevins' journey is a testament to the power of boxing to transform lives and communities. His dedication and hard work have earned him the respect and admiration of many, and his story serves as an inspiration to others.