The boys met their opponents on Saturday at the Bert Collins Boxing Club in Springs.
“I am really proud of my boys. I am seeing a great improvement in the way they fight,” says Mtshali.
He says he is pleasantly surprised by the number of medals they have won in the past few years.
Ashley Mokoena (19), who Mtshali says is one of his most promising boxers, won in the third round through technical knockout.
• Read: Tsakane boxer aims high
Mtshali says he hopes to see Mokoena go professional by the end of the year.
Thirteen-year-old Sibusiso Shabalala won on points after three rounds.
“It is still sad that when we compete we don’t have parents or the community cheering for us. We need support,” says Mtshali.
Mtshali went on to explain that the lack of resources remains their greatest challenge.
“Most of the parents can’t afford to pay for grading, medical exams and transport. So I am left with a burden, because I want the boys to succeed,” he says.
The club is in desperate need of training facilities.
• Also read: Boxing club gets equipment
“I will persist until my fighters have nothing but the best, because I know they can succeed.”
Mtshali says he is willing to train more boys and mentor new coaches in the community.
