Evolution Boxing Club's Paige McCollum bridges the Atlantic
A 16-year-old boxer from Carrickfergus has returned home after a memorable and successful trip to the United States, where she recorded an impressive victory on American soil.
Paige McCollum travelled to the USA after being selected as part of the highly regarded Bridges Beyond Boxing programme, which provides young athletes with opportunities to experience different cultures and compete against high level opposition from around America.
Paige’s first bout on the 12 day trip took place in Louisville, Kentucky, where afyer a tour of the Muhammad ali centre and an American football game she faced local boxer Maya Schafer. Despite competing thousands of miles from home, the Evolution boxer delivered a composed and dominant display to secure an excellent victory.
Following her success in Louisville and fantastic reception, the team travelled to Cincinnati, Ohio for the second leg of the trip, where Paige and the team stepped back through the ropes for the second time, this time McCollum faced of against three-time American National Champion Tamya Smith. While facing such experienced opposition represented a significant challenge, the opportunity to compete at that level provided invaluable experience and further highlighted Paige’s incredible development as a boxer.
Evolution Boxing Club head coach Iain Mahood praised Paige for embracing every aspect of the trip and representing both her club, the town and the Bridges team with pride.
"This trip was about far more than just going over and winning fights," said Mahood. "Paige has shown tremendous courage and character by travelling to America, stepping into unfamiliar surroundings and testing and proving herself against quality opposition. Her win in Louisville was a fantastic performance, and then to have the experience she had in Cincinnati was another huge experience and milestone for her.
"These opportunities are priceless for all the young athletes involved. They build confidence, experience and memories that last a lifetime and everyone at the club is incredibly proud of what she achieved from first stepping into the club at 13 a very shy and quiet individual."
Mahood also praised the work of the Bridges Beyond Boxing programme which is headed by Joe Lowe and Alan Martin, which continues to create opportunities for young people taking them out of their areas and mixing with an international exchange staying with host familes and getting a taste of different cultures and ways of life.
Paige’s American adventure is another example of the pathway being created for young athletes within the Evolution boxing gym in Carrickfergus. From beginners to national champions and international competitors, the club continues to provide opportunities both inside and outside the ring.
Paige McCollum’s successful journey to America is yet another chapter in the growing story of a club that continues to produce a conveyor belt of talent, ambition and most importantly opportunity
