My Corner of the Ring

Gr 6 Up–Silva’s memoir is a unique and inspiring story of bravery, resilience, and passion. At only seven years old, Silva developed a love for boxing and never looked back. She soon discovered the male-dominated nature of the sport and in response, felt determined to make a place for herself and other female boxers. She also yearned to help create a world in which gender stereotypes ceased to exist in sports. While largely fueled by her own passion to challenge herself, Silva received immense love and encouragement from her family, friends, and coach. After only two years of intense training and sparring, she was able to participate in her first match with another girl. She earned the nickname Jess ‘Too Cute’ Silva and got a custom-made boxing outfit. In due time, Silva achieved one of her major goals—to qualify for the Junior Olympics. At 12, she fought in her local Junior Olympic Regional Tournament and only a month later, she competed at the nationals. Silva fought against someone who was both older and more experienced and while she didn’t win, she returned home with a bronze medal, her family and coach’s enduring support, and a new goal—to win gold at the 2024 Olympics.