“I’ve been a drug addict for 12 years and now I’m taking my life back,” are the emotional and powerful words of Mitch Steyn.
This 34 year old is looking to turn his life around through one of his first loves – boxing. Mitch has been a boxer since the age of six, when he boxed as an amateur, but as he grew up, he lost his way.
“I’ve caused too much trouble and landed in hospital too many times. I’ve been addicted to drugs such as crystal meth and cat which caused me to be homeless twice,” he said.
However, two months ago a lightbulb went off in Mitch’s head which prompted him to try to change his life for the better. He went back into the boxing ring and started training with BRD Sports Academy, which he says has always helped him to focus.
“I thought it was time to change. Boxing is what has always helped me focus clearly and keeps me disciplined as it’s one of the sport’s core values. It takes dedication, hard work, blood, sweat and tears to train hard and keep at it,” he said.
Mitch’s goal is to be ready in time for the upcoming pro licence boxing matches that will be hosted at the Booysens Amateur Boxing Club on 4 March. He wants to obtain a professional licence and continue in the sport that has helped him change his life.
“My life has been an emotional ride. There were many times I tried to quit drugs and return to boxing but it never stuck. I would always veer off the right path and be back to the life of drugs. But now I am putting in the effort and with the help of God and BRD Sports Academy, I know I will make it through this time,” he said.
Mitch wants to use himself as an example to get the youth into sports such as boxing instead of going down the wrong path. He also wants to show his family and friends a positive side to himself.
“My father is very happy about me being back in the ring, while my mother is a bit skeptical. I want to show them I am positive and strong and looking forward to fighting in the ring once again”, he said.
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