Fran Russell has been appointed Regional Project Lead for Wales

Welsh Boxing is delighted to announce that Fran Russell has been appointed by England Boxing as the Regional Project Lead for Wales, working with the Welsh Boxing membership to deliver youth community projects that use the power of boxing to support young people and drive social change.

This role will play a vital part in highlighting the positive impact boxing can have not only on individuals but also on wider communities, as the sport continues to demonstrate its ability to inspire, engage, and transform lives.

These youth community projects form part of Welsh Boxing’s wider strategy to encourage more young people to get active and engaged through sport. They aim to demonstrate boxing’s power to bring about social change while providing safe, structured opportunities for those who may be at risk of being drawn into crime or violence. The projects are being delivered in collaboration with England Boxing, the Youth Endowment Fund, and other key partners, and Welsh Boxing is excited to see the positive impact they will have across communities in Wales.

Local boxing clubs will be at the heart of these initiatives, delivering sessions that combine skill development, discipline, and fitness. Clubs involved will benefit from resources, support, and funding to run high-quality programmes, while playing a key role in shaping young people’s futures and showcasing the sport’s positive influence.

Gareth Evans, Head of Community Boxing for Welsh Boxing, said:
“I am delighted that Fran has joined us as part of the team at Welsh Boxing. I’m really looking forward to seeing the positive impact she can make in the community space. The learnings from these youth community projects will be shared with our Activators to help enhance their roles and create more opportunities to engage young people through boxing. I’m excited to see how these projects develop and the difference they make across Wales.”

With over 12 years as a fencing coach, alongside roles with British Fencing and eight years on the board of Welsh Fencing, Fran has a proven record of using sport to inspire young people. Combined with experience as a teaching assistant supporting disadvantaged children in schools, this background will now be channelled into ensuring these youth community projects deliver maximum impact for young people in Wales.