"I was deeply saddened to hear of Vernon's passing this morning. I want to extend
all my thoughts and prayers to his entire family. Vernon (aka "shorty" in
those days )first walked into the Augusta Boxing Club when he was 8 and it did
not take long to recognize his amazing talent in additon to his tremendous
"heart and dedication". THIS COMBINATION OF TALENT AND HEART is one of the
things that set him apart from most boxers in the world. We have lost one of
the very few true role models for our youth. Sure many of our pro athletes
"talk the talk" but not many "walk the walk" like Vernon did through his foundation
in addition to his many hours spent on site physically working with our youth. We have truely lost a great "Champion" from his boxing in the ring today but
equally as significant we have lost a greater CHAMP "outside" the ring. Again my
blessings to his family and many many friends and fans. My love and admiration
for Vernon and the memories he left with us will never end." -Tom Moraetes
"I was deeply saddened to hear of Vernon's passing this morning. I want to extend
all my thoughts and prayers to his entire family. Vernon (aka "shorty" in
those days )first walked into the Augusta Boxing Club when he was 8 and it did
not take long to recognize his amazing talent in additon to his tremendous
"heart and dedication". THIS COMBINATION OF TALENT AND HEART is one of the
things that set him apart from most boxers in the world. We have lost one of
the very few true role models for our youth. Sure many of our pro athletes
"talk the talk" but not many "walk the walk" like Vernon did through his foundation
in addition to his many hours spent on site physically working with our youth. We have truely lost a great "Champion" from his boxing in the ring today but
equally as significant we have lost a greater CHAMP "outside" the ring. Again my
blessings to his family and many many friends and fans. My love and admiration
for Vernon and the memories he left with us will never end." -Tom Moraetes