U.S. Olympian and Glenville native, Morelle McCane, said goodbye to her fans Tuesday night as she prepared to head to Paris for the 2024 Olympic games.

Dozens of supporters filled the gym at the Glenville Recreation Center to celebrate McCane with games and prizes. She and her team gave away t-shirts with an image of her in full boxing gear, in front of an American flag. As she thanked the crowd for their continued support, McCane was overcome with emotion. Her supporters lifted her up with a roaring cheer.

The boxer told Signal Cleveland that she likes to say she is representing the United States, “but really I’m representing Cleveland.” The last time a Cleveland boxer brought home an Olympic medal was in 1954. McCane hopes 2024 is the year she brings home the gold.

Morelle McCane poses in the gym of the Glenville Recreation Center.
Morelle McCane poses in the gym of the Glenville Recreation Center. Credit: Najee Hall / Signal Cleveland
McCane greeting children who came to see her.
McCane greeting children who came to see her. Credit: Najee Hall / Signal Cleveland
McCane checking shirt sizes as she hands them out to fans.
McCane checking shirt sizes as she hands them out to fans. Credit: Najee Hall / Signal Cleveland
McCane handing out t-shirts to fans.
McCane handing out t-shirts to fans. Credit: Najee Hall / Signal Cleveland
McCane poses with fellow boxers at the Glenville recreation center and Mayor Justin Bibb.
McCane poses with fellow boxers at the Glenville recreation center and Mayor Justin Bibb. Credit: Najee Hall / Signal Cleveland
Mccane thanks the crowd and community for their continued support.
Mccane thanks the crowd and community for their continued support. Credit: Najee Hall / Signal Cleveland
McCane gets emotional as the crowd cheers her on.
McCane gets emotional as the crowd cheers her on. Credit: Najee Hall / Signal Cleveland

Community Reporter (he/him)
I work to gain the trust of Cleveland residents through direct community engagement and storytelling. My goal is to amplify and celebrate the residents and stakeholders who contribute to the success of city neighborhoods. I’m hoping to erase the negative stigma that has been cast on some neighborhoods throughout the years.