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Local athlete turning hardships into championships in the boxing ring

DAVENPORT, Iowa– Out of the ring, her name is Jaylin Buckley, but in the ring, people call her ‘the Bull’. The decorated boxer is a three time...

DAVENPORT, Iowa-- Out of the ring, her name is Jaylin Buckley, but in the ring, people call her 'the Bull'.

The decorated boxer is a three time state champion and a four time national title holder. At only 17 years old, the Iowa State Golden Glover has a perfect record, 11 wins zero losses.

"It takes dedication, determination, and you have to be precise with everything you do," says Buckley.

Next month, the athlete is looking to compete for a new title at the Women's National Golden Gloves Tournament in Florida. But she is about $1,500 short.

This champion's life hasn't been all victories.

Jaylin, her twin sister, and her mom live at the Salvation Army Family Shelter in Davenport.

The family moved here two years ago from Michigan after falling on hard times. They're getting back on their feet in the transitional living program.

"With hard work, with focus, with drive, you can stay on the right path and do great things no matter what your background is," says Salvation Army Development Director Sarah Hite.

Through those hardships, the champion never lost sight of her dreams.

"When you do the right things, the right things happen to you," says Buckley.

She's fighting to brave any punch life throws her way.

If you want to help Jaylin raise enough money to compete next week, you can donate to her Go Fund Me Page

You can also deliver donations to the Salvation Army in Davenport at 301 W. 6th Street.

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