The Soo Line Boxing Club held its first practice of the season last Thursday night, with roughly 25 boxers coming out, said coach Hank Hartenberger.

Hartenberger said he and his fellow coaches are expecting anywhere from 35 to 40 potential contenders to be out this week, but they're still looking to broaden their base.

The club is open to male and female boxers, and registration costs are only $40 for the whole season. A number of certified and experienced coaches help out at the club, including Hartenberger, Brent Franks, Dan Demarchi, Bill Irvine, Don Pokletar and Armin Roettger.

Asked if he had any up-and-comers, Hartenberger said they were expecting Canada Winter Games silver medallist Joel Franks to win provincials this year, and the intermediate nationals are a possibility this January in Montreal.

Otherwise, there are a lot of newcomers to the club who need some fine-tuning, but nonetheless are good boxers.

"Quite a few guys need work but I think there's some prospects there," he said.

The boxing club is currently meeting at Elks Hall, despite the fact it was auctioned off recently. Hartenberger said he has spoken with the new owner, who told him the club could stay there for now.