The Witpoortjie Vikings Amateur Boxing Club has seen an increase in the number of recruits this season.
This is all thanks to a recent recruitment drive which spread the word about the club and the benefits it provides.
“Everyday we have been getting new people who are interested in boxing to join which is fantastic for the sport and the club. It shows that there is something right we are doing to have so many new faces in the club,” said head coach Phillip du Randt.
However, du Randt added that with lack of sponsorship still plaguing the sport, proper development of young boxers can be a challenge.
“In the past you could say that boxers from certain backgrounds were disadvantaged but with the sport lacking in funds, that is not the case anymore. We are running out of mitts and gloves and other quality equipment that are needed to develop young boxers for the future,” he said.
Danny Coetzee who had his first boxing match at 13-years-old is planning on turning professional this year.
Now at 21-years-old, he is still addicted to the adrenaline rush that made him fall in love with the sport.
“I just cant get over the sport. It has taught me discipline and how keeping calm is the key to victory not only in sport but in life. If you lose your cool, you lose everything,” he said.
13-year-old John Nel who recently joined the club said he has learned a lot of responsibility by being part of the club.
“I have learned to look after myself now and I’m learning how to be fit and healthy. My father was a boxer so to follow in his footsteps in a sport he enjoys is great. Now I am looking forward to participating in matches and winning medals for the club,” he said.
The club has also brought in four new assistant coaches in Gert Kruger, Willem Boys, Pieter Kleinhans and Sanet Botha.
The coaches have varied levels of experience and are excited to impart their knowledge of the sport onto the boxers.
They will be sent to a training course this month to fine their skills so they can help the juniors much more effectively.
The club will also be selecting their new executive committee in February.
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