Matthys Elementary School fathers and their children were recently treated to a night with “The Champ.”

Four-time World Heavyweight Boxing Champion Evander Holyfield spoke to students and their fathers at the school’s third annual Father’s Night Out. The special event for Matthys fathers is one of many community outreach programs the campus holds for its parents throughout the year.

Holyfield spoke to both the students and their fathers during two separate presentations. He spoke to the children about his childhood and how they can become successful in life.

“I started boxing when I was 8-years-old,” he said, “and my dream was to become heavyweight champion of the world. As a young man, I was successful as a boxer, then I ran into one opponent – and he beat me. I faced him again, and I lost. I went back to fight him a third time and he still defeated me. I wanted to quit, but my coach and my mother told me that, ‘you’re not a quitter.’ They encouraged me and gave me the determination to continue my dream. It helped me become who I am today.

“The key to success in life is to always keep trying,” he said. “The best advice I can give to young people is to love your mom and dad, do what your teachers ask you to do and never, ever give up. Following these three rules will help show you the way throughout your life.”

As a result of the guidance he received from his mother and his coach, Holyfield captured his first world championship belt at 28-years-old. He explained to the fathers in attendance how they can make a lasting impact in their childrens’ lives.

“The example you set as parents is very important,” Holyfield said. “Your actions and how you conduct yourself has a great influence on your children.”

Holyfield said the examples he learned from his mother and his boxing coach have helped shape his parenting skills today.

“My goal as a father is for my kids to turn out better than me, and I truly think that most parents feel the same way. We all want our children to have all of the success in the world. We play an important role in getting them there.”

The most important job of a parent, Holyfield says, is to give their children the support and love they need to achieve their dreams.

“With the encouragement I received, I felt I could achieve anything,” he said. “As parents, I also encourage you to be such a beacon in your child’s life. You are the most influential person in their lives. Love them, support them, and help them learn from their mistakes. If you are the rock in their lives and set a positive example for them, the lessons they’ve learned will be passed down for generations to come.”