Donald Anderson

Donald Anderson is one of Central Ohio’s brightest shining stars who has hit the national stage with blows of the Silver Gloves variety. Anderson, a Linden McKinley football star is known best for the success and acclaim he has brought to the top level boxing program at Columbus’s Blackburn Recreation Center. Anderson credits his longtime coach, the legendary Mike Johnson with much of his success and all of his work ethic. Johnson has led Anderson into three championship pairs of Silver Gloves.

“Mike got a hold of me when I was just 7,” said Anderson. “After that I was hooked.”

Johnson specializes in taking young athletes, often who are confronting perilous life circumstances, and directing their mind, bodies, and spirit into a warrior status. Mike Johnson succeeds in creating a competitor’s sole focus on academic and athletic achievement. Anderson was awarded a $1,000 Columbus Rotary scholarship at the 2008 Arnold Sports Festival. He received the honor in recognition of his weekend performance and year-round academic standing.

Physically, Anderson is still developing. At 165 lbs. Anderson still has plenty of growing to do. He admits to managing his weight and training to maintain the agility and speed required in every championship ring. His favorite boxer? Floyd Mayweather, Jr.

“I don’t think of myself as anything special,” said Anthony. “When I am at school, alot of guys come up to me and say thanks for making us proud, thanks for making us look good. At least you’re getting out.”

Anderson knows excellence in sports will be his ticket to a life beyond Columbus’s near east side. Johnson has drilled into his young mind the messages of perseverance and leadership. Anderson remains a slight reserve at all times, except when he’s ready to battle.

“Donald definitely has the passion and the talent to become an Olympian,” says Johnson. I have trained many champions and Donald is one of the greatest. He’s a Junior Olympian who one day we will celebrate as a World Champion.”

Donald Anderson loves football and shows great acumen on the field as well. When asked if he ever feels torn between the two sports Donald hesitates and says, “I like football. Right now I don’t have to choose. Someday I will and I’ll be ready.”

My bet’s on the ring.