St Joseph’s (East) valuable community work across Gwent

Boxing is a valuable tool for good in society and the work that clubs do in their communities is vital. 

Community-focussed initiatives are far from uncommon within boxing in Wales and St Joseph’s (East) in Newport are one club that take this responsibility role very seriously. 

For many, years the club has had links with schools across Gwent with pupils coming to the gym to train. With this limiting the number of attendees, however, and health and wellbeing becoming central in the national curriculum, St Joseph’s (East) began taking boxing to the schools. 

“After one school contacted us to visit them and deliver a lesson to three classes of 30 pupils, word quickly spread and we were in great demand,” Billy Reynolds, from St Joseph’s (East), told Welsh Boxing. 

Since starting the initiative, Billy and the club have seen their work produce a great impact. 

“The engagement has been fabulous for us, the coaches, and for the pupils and teachers,” Billy explained.  

“For the vast majority of the pupils this is the first time that they have ever even considered the sport of boxing, not least have a go at it! 

“And the feedback has been fantastic. We’ve had some heart-warming letters and cards from the children and, of course, an element of proof of the success is that quite a few pupils have come to the gym to continue their own boxing journey!” 

It’s fantastic to see our clubs undertake this truly valuable work within their local communities, and have kids inspired to box as a by-product. Boxing’s health and social value cannot be understated. 

“The physical benefits are well documented,” Billy commented, “particularly with aspects such as development of cardiovascular fitness, improvement of hand-eye coordination, and general development of balance and agility. 

“There are also mental health benefits to consider,” he continued. “From my years at St Joseph’s, I have had first-hand experience of witnessing how young people’s confidence improves along with an appreciation for self-discipline and respect. We must also consider that boxing is a very social sport, and it’s fun!” 

All in all, it has been fantastic to see St. Joseph’s (East) exemplify the fantastic work our clubs do inside and outside of their premises, and the importance they have in the community. 

“St Joseph’s, like many others boxing clubs in the country, is a focal point of the community,” Billy explained.  

“Clubs definitely have a positive impact on the youth of the community, as they promote self-discipline, self-confidence, and general life skills. The sport of boxing and boxing gyms can help reduce crime and violence by offering an alternative to “street life”. 

“Additionally,” he concluded, “boxing provides an avenue for people to come together and form strong bonds with one another, regardless of background. In my opinion, attending a boxing gym is quite simply a win-win situation.”