Boxing club beats boredom in Ballymena community

Pictured at All Saints Boxing Club, Ballymena are, left to right, Gareth Atkinson, All Saints Boxing Club member and Brendan Dunne, All Saints Boxing Club coach.
Pictured at All Saints Boxing Club, Ballymena are, left to right, Gareth Atkinson, All Saints Boxing Club member and Brendan Dunne, All Saints Boxing Club coach.

Expert coaches have successfully helped many boxing enthusiasts with complex needs reach fighting fit condition thanks to Housing Executive funding in Ballymena.

All Saints Boxing Club, situated close to the Dunclug and Doury Road estates, used the £3, 735 Community Involvement grant to cover coaching, equipment and refreshment costs for their 12-week Fighting Fit course.

All Saints ABC coach Brendan Dunne said, “This programme equips people over 40 with the tools to live happier and healthier lives.

“We were delighted to see even more people with complex needs take part this year. 

“Participating created a sense of belonging and achievement because they no longer felt isolated and excluded from clubs and sporting activities.

“Our highly qualified, skilled and experienced coaches provided the highest level of support and their input was key to the success of the programme.

“Open and accessible to all and free of change the programme enabled some of the most vulnerable in our community to take part.

“With the cost-of-living crisis we realise that courses like this are a lifeline to adults living on a tight budget. 

“By getting involved in healthy schemes like this, adults can inspire the younger generations to get active in their community and steer clear of negative influences.

“We are extremely grateful to the Housing Executive for their support.”

Roy McClean, Housing Executive Assistant Manager, Mid and East Antrim said, “We are very fortunate to work with many amazing community groups and volunteers who are 

the backbone of our communities. 

“Groups provide support, compassion and dedication throughout the year. 

“Meticulously planned projects help make a real difference to so many lives and we would like all groups to know how much we appreciate what they do. 

“All Saints Boxing Club is one such group and it is a pleasure to support them.”

Visit nihe.gov.uk for more information.


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