Gersh, Ed

An NYU graduate, Gersh left boxing, after a brief but successful career, to teach in Spanish Harlem. He became a dean at his school, opening a summer camp (West Hills Day Camp in Huntington, New York in 1955 -- it is still in business) and training young fighters. Ed maintained his contacts with the world of professional boxing, sparring with world champ Jake LaMotta. Today (in 2002) Gersh is 82 years old, and the subject of an upcoming documentary being filmed by Burrill Crohn.

Birth and Death Dates:
b. 1920

Career Highlights:
In 1943, at Madison Square Garden, Gersh won the Golden Gloves Open Heavyweight Championship, the first Jewish boxer to ever do so. He then had five professional fights, winning four; the other was a draw. He retired undefeated, choosing to teach and mentor underprivileged kids instead of to box professionally.

Origin:
New York City

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