When life throws you punches… Box360
At the age of 15, Roland earned his junior SA colours, fought for South Africa and came third in Africa.
Life has thrown 38-year-old Roland van Rooyen a lot of punches but none he hasn’t been able to bounce back from.
“Don’t be afraid to bleed,” he says.
In fact, if you follow Roland on social media, you will see his posts encourage anyone going through a tough time to pick themselves up and soldier on.
“You don’t always have a plan when it comes to life. We have to take those risks and grab on to the things that come our way, no matter how hard it seems,” he says.
Roland grew up in Pretoria. His father, Les, one of South Africa’s finest boxing coaches, played a pivotal role in his life.
“My father was a plumber by day, and a boxing coach by night. I have many fond memories of my Dad. He was my boxing coach and mentor and he taught me how to look after myself.” At the age of 15, Roland earned his junior SA colours, fought for South Africa and came third in Africa.
When his father died, Roland admitted that he strayed off from the tracks, getting involved in drugs is his mid 20’s. Not able to afford a private rehab, he was fortunate to receive guidance and help from family and friends in his path to rehabilitation.
Later, he worked for the South Coast Recovery Centre as a house manager and trainer before moving to Cape Town to work as a personal trainer. Roland married and the couple had a daughter. Unfortunately the marriage failed and after the divorce, Roland moved back to the South Coast and was offered the position of assistant manager at The South Coast Recovery Centre.
It was a perfect fit. One day, two youngsters at the centre asked him to train them, and that reignited his passion for boxing.
The rest is history… and Box360 was born.
It’s now Roland’s vision to inspire and give back to the youth.
“So many youngsters on the South Coast are battling with addictions, bullying and other social issues,” said Roland.
“The sport helps one to develop discipline and build strong character and the ability, for example, to stand up to a bully.”
Roland believes many people feel helpless in their situations and turn to “self medicating “on alcohol and drugs .
“This is where boxing can help , as it channels emotion, and releases tension and/or aggression in a safe and controlled environment.
Why is it called Box360? “Simple. Turn your life around. Make a 360 change,” he says.
Businessman and attorney Robin Petterson has played an important role in getting Box360 off the ground, and Roland is thankful for his support in his journey of bringing boxing to the coast. The boxing gym is already growing from strength to strength, attracting all ages and genders to the sport.
In terms of health benefits, it can help can strengthen bones and muscles, burn more calories, and lift your mood. It’s a fast, furious sport and while you’re at it, it leaves very little room in your head for anything else!
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