Boxing Club reopens after refurbishments

The club is situated in an old Hibernian hall and was in dire need of renovation.

Over the last number of years the club has depended on bag packing and other fundraising events to pay the rent and take the kids to competitions.  

This year, the club applied to Groundworks NI for funding for capital build and much to their delight they were successful in their application. The club receieved just under £50,000 of funding.

Club secretary Carmel Quinn said: “We are delighted we received this funding from Groundworks NI. They were so impressed with the hard work carried out by the boxing club in the community that they awarded us the funds necessary to bring the club to the appropriate standard. The local Policing and Community Safety Partnership and the PSNI also provided generous funding which allowed us to purchase a new boxing ring.

“The re-opening has been a success and I am sure our clubs success stories will continue as we have already began the new season with four of our boxers winning titles.

“We cannot thank Groundworks NI the PSNI and the PCSP enough for this funding. It is great for our club and the community as a whole.”

Townland Boxing Club is just one of the community projects Groundworks NI has funded. Established in 2008 by Alpha Resource Management Ltd, The Alpha Programme is managed by Groundwork NI and has already provided funding to over 60 biodiversity and community based projects.

Sinn Fein representative for the area MaryKate Quinn said: “The re-opening event was hugely attended which shows just how much support this club has within our community.

“The coaches and volunteers put so much effort in and I am glad the work has paid off thanks to Groundworks NI, the PSNI and the PCSP.

“The club has been completely transformed, a huge asset for our area. All the members are keen to begin a new season in their new club.”