Can Larches and Savick ABC go the distance?

Since it’s opening in 2002, Larches and Savick Amateur Boxing Club has seen the surrounding estate shake off its ‘Muggers’ Alley’ nickname but is boxing a sport that can really help a community?

Often susceptible to bad press, boxing is a sport that some parents oppose being taught in school. “My lad is only two,” said Angela McKeen, Fulwood. “But I wouldn’t want to see him boxing at school. I think it would just encourage him to start fights with other kids.”

However coaches at Larches and Savick ABC are keen to stress that boxing is not about youngsters “battering each other” but instead improves discipline and fitness levels.

Click to hear coach David Fitzgerald on the subject.

FAMILY
Stepping into the gym, the warm, family atmosphere between the coaches and their pupils is clear. The fluorescent yellow signs spelling out the rules of the gym seem to be a bit redundant as it’s hard to imagine any child rebelling against such well-respected coaches.

Former boxer and coach Paul Burke said:

“Discipline is important. We don’t like bullying within or outside the gym and
anyone found doing it gets banned. There’s a lot of camaraderie here. The
squad’s a bit like a family or gang who all look out for each other.”

Coach David Fitzgerald added: “If kids come in and disrupt things then they’ve got to go. Our lads have to be fit when they step in the ring as there’s not going to be anyone in their with them to pass the ball to like you can if you’re playing football. Boxing is a solo sport, so they have to be disciplined. That’s why we don’t tolerate back chat or anyone messing about.”

PROUD DAD
Tim Chune, father of nine year old Charlie, has no doubt about the change in his son since he has started at the club. Click to hear.


This view has been supported by research at Liverpool Hope University as sports psychology student, Laura Watson, explains. “Studies have shown that some adolescent males will come to a point when they have to have a fight. The reasons behind it could be a desire to prove their masculinity or it can have a cathartic effect. Young males who box allow them to release their aggression in a controlled environment and therefore decrease the risk of them starting a fight in the street or in bars or
clubs.
"The skills required to box such as discipline, focus, restraint and control are also transferable to everyday life making boxing a good sport for kids to be involved in.”