By James Bovington
Hundreds of local people attend boxing shows arranged by local clubs and gyms – and the Summer Showdown at Bramley Villagers last Saturday was no exception as boxers took on opponents from as far away as Blackpool.
“Our shows bring our community together,” said Richard ‘Dee Jay Titch’ Manning, 40, who is chief coach at Villagers. “We give boxers chance to demonstrate skills learnt while proving to themselves that they can box successfully and earn a little commission on ticket sales.
“They all have day jobs but train intensively and make everyone proud of what’s achieved. Some of the younger ones are set on becoming professional boxers.”
That’s the ambition of Kalem Pickles, 18, who beat the experienced Kyle McNicholas. “I was delighted to get the win following a loss earlier in the year. I’m planning my journey through England Boxing’s amateurs and aiming to become a professional boxer at 21. I’m proud that the sport is central to my life.”
Oscar Fletcher, 17, won the Independent Boxing Championship’s 63 kg title belt. He said: “I love to train. Keep fit. Boxing separates me from the average person.
“I’d had a life changing injury, but coaches Titch and Danny believed in me throughout. I moved to the adults’ group at 16 and I’ve made great friendships in what’s one big family. The atmosphere at the shows is fantastic and prepares me for a future as a pro boxer.”
“Boxing has protected me,” admits Jamie Brook, 22. “I was getting into trouble on the streets, but I now fit in perfectly with all the lads.
“Their boxing work ethic helps me push myself further. Scott Mazurke, 27, got a fourth consecutive win beating Corey Harrison and praises boxing for ‘benefitting my mental health when everything was getting too much.
“I’m in shape and we boxers look after each other no matter what.”
Ryan Taylor, 33, uses boxing to raise awareness of autism and values friendships made with a ‘great set of lads helping each other progress’.
Saturday’s bout was the last for Gary Lockwood, 49. “In four years I’ve won nine matches and proud that my retirement fight ended in a stoppage.
“It all began with a charity fundraising fight and now I’ve friends for life at Villagers. My son boxes too. It’s building his confidence. I can’t thank Titch and Danny enough for their dedication to Villagers and commitment to us boxers.”
Lockwood’s son Harry and Noah Myers are both fourteen and train three times a week at the club.
Both had ‘skills bouts’ on the show meaning that they could demonstrate boxing techniques learned without the pressure of a formal result.
However, both lads, who start year ten at local schools, are keen to compete to win on the next show. Both have the longer-term goal of becoming professional boxers. “There’s no better ambition a boy can have. I can’t wait to prove myself competing in the ring,” said Noah.
Jack Toye, 20, had a comfortable win over Lewis Loftus. Toye also arranged a collection on behalf of local man Andrew James Honey, 42 – ‘Bunchy’ – who had recently taken his own life.
“We wanted to do something to help his family at this most difficult of times,’ explained Toye, ‘and we were delighted to raise £ 400.”
The show was sponsored by a variety of local businesses including Rubix Cleaning Services, M.A. Plastering, Mobile Parts Distribution, Pro-Reno Leeds Ltd, EG Foam, Scott’s Groomers, ATR Properties, Leeds Metal Fabrication Ltd., Rodley Carpets, Able & Able Upholsterers, Paul Young Mobile Services, Sambuca and Nelson Loft Insulation. The writer apologises for any omissions.
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Great to read articles like this, having a routine and discipline like this really benefits a young persons life. A minute later, though, we’re reading of another alcohol licence granted by the council:Its clear that many private individuals and businesses have much more concern for the young in our society than the local authority do.