The National Collegiate Boxing Association (NCBA) was formed in 1976 and is a group member of USA Boxing. Currently the NCBA has over 25 colleges and universities participating in collegiate boxing nationwide. The NCBA philosophy and rules seek to provide a boxing outlet for student athletes with little or no experience. The program emphasizes the teaching of fundamental novice boxing skills while studying. The association is designed to provide a safe, positive educational experience for student athletes and encourages participation at the intramural, instructional, recreational, and competitive amateur boxing levels. Student athletes are limited to five bouts after their sixteenth birthday if they are to be considered for the program. The NCBA conducts competitions throughout the year for the following weight classes: 112, 119, 125, 132, 139, 147, 156, 165, 175, 185, 195, and 195+. Each spring a National Championship Belt is awarded to the best individual boxer per weight class and National Championship Trophy to the best team in college boxing.