Young boxers (from left) Ben Westley and Adrian Aidan shape up at Bentley Park College.
Respect, self confidence, discipline: three elements of a boxing program that is reducing violence and keeping Cairns teenagers in high school.
The Streets Boxing Program operates in conjunction with Bentley Park College targeting young people aged 12-17 at risk of exiting the education system due to anger management issues.
School worker Jesse Martin established the program to provide an outlet for aggression and frustration, keep young people off drugs and alcohol and divert them from anti-social behaviour.
“The regimen of fitness, technique and respect teaches kids discipline and builds their confidence,” Jesse says.
“Self preservation is a great motivator.
“They quickly learn that training and commitment is important, that you can’t just jump into the ring unprepared and expect to win.
“They learn to apply the choices and self control to their day-to-day lives. Not one of the 100 or so young people who have seriously participated has got into a fight outside the program.”
The Streets Boxing Program has received $45,000 under the Queensland Government's Active Inclusion Program, which enables groups facing economic, social, cultural or physical barriers to access sport and recreation opportunities.
The funds will be used to obtain a proper boxing ring, training equipment, gloves and headgear.
Jesse says the boxing regimen is paying dividends.
“Year 12 students who have done the program volunteer to help out. Young students look up to and take notice of these role models,” he says.
Applications are now open for Active Inclusion grants.
For more information: Active Inclusion grants: phone 1300 656 191 to be connected to your nearest regional office.
Streets Boxing Program: Jesse Martin 0412 214 187
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