Summer Boxing Academy ‘Champions 4 Change’ meets needs of young carers
BY CALUM FRASER
calum@slpmedia.co.uk
Young carers were given a chance to let off some steam at a boxing class that aims to empower them.
The Champions 4 Change (C4C) Summer Boxing academy was run at St Thomas’ church in Charlton.
More than a dozen children from across Greenwich turned up to the class in Woodland Terrace.
C4C founder and lead trainer Scott O’Conner put the children through circuit training, non-contact boxing sessions as well as workshops on healthy eating and goal setting.
George King, a young carer and trainee coach, said: “Boxing has really changed my life. Since meeting Scott he has helped me to not only exercise but he has mentored and guided me in life.
“I was very angry when I was young, now I manage my emotions and have clear goals of becoming a fully qualified coach for Champions 4 Change. Then I can help other young people in the same way Scott has helped me.”
Mr O’Connor runs the St Peter’s Boxing Club in Maryon Road in Woolwich.
The academy session on Friday, August 10 is part of Mr O’Connor’s Young Championship Boot Camp programme that he has been running for six years.
Mr O’Connor said: “I believe boxing is a great sport for everyone especially young people.
The outcomes Champions 4 Change have achieved have been second to none.
“Throughout our programmes feedback from both young people and their parents highlight growth in confidence and self esteem, less anger as they have the tools to manage emotions effectively and they feel safer due to learning the art of boxing.”
To find out more about C4C go to www.champions4change.org.uk