After an unsuccessful defense of its national championship in 2007, the Rebel boxing squad is ready for a return to form.

Four student athletes from the UNLV Boxing Club have advanced from the National Collegiate Boxing Association's Western Regional Championships in Santa Clara, Calif., qualifying for the 2008 National Championship.

Jason Morris in the 112-pound weight class, Jerome Foster in the 132-pound weight class, Jason Croco in the 175-pound weight class and returning champion Charles "Trey" Blackwell in the 185-pound weight class, all finished in the top two positions of the Western Region in their respective divisions.

They will go on to fight against athletes from schools around the nation in the NCBA National Championship taking place April 10 - 12 at the Downtown Ballroom in Reno.

"I have four guys that can fight," coach Chris Ben-Tchavtchavadze said. "They all have the possibility to go all the way and win a national title."

He added: "You know there's a lot of politics involved in amateur boxing, but I'd like to come back with at least two national champions."

Blackwell, the returning champion, appears to be the favorite in the 185-pound weight class.

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