Ring of Confidence for Young Boxers

YOUNG boxers in Shepshed are reaping the benefits of a new ring, part-funded by a sports grant from Charnwood Borough Council.

The 12ft by 12ft ring has been described as “a brilliant development” by officials at Shepshed ABC’s headquarters in Brook Street as it also meets new Amateur Boxing Association guidelines.

“We have dreamed over the past 11 years of owning our own ring and it is now a reality and we are so grateful for the grant,” said co-founder Jo Norman, whose husband, Shaun, is the senior coach at the club.

 “It is safer for the youngsters and something we have needed for many years. We were just about getting by with a matted area which had three rope posts, but we desperately needed a proper ring.

“Getting the grant from the council has been a massive boost for us. In the past, we have had to do all the fund-raising and I even sold my car to help towards the cost of levelling the floor.”

The new ring was purchased by the club through a grant of £550 from the Borough Council as well as additional financial support from the William Colton  Foundation and the Central Social & Recreational Trust.

 Councillor David Snartt, Charnwood Borough Council’s Cabinet member for Neighbourhood Services, said: “I am delighted that Shepshed ABC is benefiting from our support.

“Our Sports Facilities’ Grants are continuing to help individuals and clubs as we are determined to ensure there is a legacy from the wonderful results achieved by our athletes at London 2012.”

The work of the boxing club was highlighted by their involvement at sporting sessions in Loughborough town centre to coincide with both the Opening and Closing Ceremonies at London 2012.

Jo said youngsters had also been spurred on by the success of gold-medallists Anthony Joshua, Luke Campbell and Nicola Adams.

She said: “We have had a lot of interest, including a few girls who are training with us at the moment.”

Shaun also won the Coach of the Year accolade at last year’s Charnwood Sports Awards – and the search is on to find his successor.

The top coach category is one of 13 in this year’s event and the closing date for entries is Friday, October 7. Nominations can be made online at:

www.charnwood.gov.uk/pages/sportsawards

To find out more about the grants programme and the Charnwood Sports Awards, contact Hayley Boereboom, Senior Sports Development Officer, on 01509 634592 or email

Hayley.Boereboom@Charnwood.gov.uk

ENDS