GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. – Staying in peak physical condition is essential as a college student-athlete.  Senior men's lacrosse player Cody Cross has found a unique way to accomplish that goal and may have even found a new endeavor for himself post-college.  He has spent the last two years training as a boxer and learning hooks, crosses, and jabs.

Cody was urged to try boxing by his brother.  For the last two years he has been training three to four times a week at the Sand Lake Boxing Club.  Sometimes they will spar with other boxers in the Grand Rapids area for additional practice.

“I really enjoy it.  There are a lot of good boxers.  It's like we're a team all supporting each other.”

It is quite a balancing act being a full-time student, member of the men's lacrosse team, and training in the boxing ring.  “There are definitely some early mornings, but you just make time to get things done.”  He has maintained a 3.0 GPA and will be one semester away from graduation at the end of his senior season.

Cody has seen his training as a boxer benefit his play on the lacrosse field.  “My hand-eye coordination has improved.  My feet and hands are a lot quicker and I have a lot better cardio.”

Learning the sport of boxing has not been easy for Cody, but he has worked very hard.  “It has definitely gotten easier, but since I haven't fought a lot the adrenaline wears you down a lot quicker.”

Besides improving his physical condition, Cody has learned a lot about mental toughness.  “When you get hit, you have to stay calm in the ring.  It's more of a chess game.  That has helped me stay calm on the field, too, and overcome mistakes.”

Cody has a lot of ideas about what direction he would like to take after he graduates from Davenport.  One goal is to attend firefighter academy.  Whatever he chooses, he has plans to pursue professional boxing and stay involved in that sport for a while.

So far he is on track for that goal.  He is undefeated in his fights so far and looks forward to participating in the Golden Gloves, Michigan's biggest boxing competition, next year.  His goal is to participate in 50 fights by age 24.

The men's lacrosse team is back in action tonight as they host Western Michigan on the DU Turf Field at 7:30 PM.