A long-time resident of Broomall, he attended Upper Darby High School, where he was a member of the wrestling team. He became a professional boxer, competing in the featherweight class and working under trainer Marty Feldman at the Upper Darby Police Physical Education Center. After winning only once in his first three fights, he put together a 19-bout winning streak, then left the ring in 1972 with a record of 22-5 (17 KOs) because of personal problems. After a five-year absence from the ring, he returned and won five bouts before retiring in 1979. He is a member of the Delaware County Athletes Hall of Fame.