In this episode Tom and Jo Ann speak to retired professional boxer Sammy Sparkman. Born and raised in Columbia, TN, Mr. Sparkman began boxing when he was just seven years old. Following some time away from the sport, Mr. Sparkman spent six years in amateur boxing before turning pro in 1997. He fought in the ring all over the United States and the world including Poland, Canada, Denmark, Italy, and elsewhere. He has been in the ring with seven future world champions and numerous world title contenders. Known by the nickname “Silk,” he had a reputation of never turning down a challenge. Like many boxers, however, Sparkman never got the acclaim, or the accompanying reward that he fought for during his career. In 2009, at the age of 39, Sparkman hung up his gloves. His story one of inspiration.
