Boys boxing clever

Ringing the changes – Youngsters ‘given a confidence boost’ by St Pancras Amateur Boxing Club

Published: 11 March 2010
by STEVE BARNETT

PUPILS from Chalcot School for Boys have found the perfect way to vent their excess energy after joining St Pancras Amateur Boxing Club.  

The boys make their way from their school in Chalk Farm to the gym in Kentish Town every Friday, where they are put through their paces by professional trainers CJ Hussein and Mourad Boudjemaa. 

The group face tough fitness drills including skipping, running and working on their combinations on punching bags, before stepping into the ring to practise their new skills in controlled sparring sessions. 

Teacher John Lane, who attends the sessions with the boys, believes the challenge is just what they needed. 

“The coaches have high expectations of the boys, and that really motivates them to do their best,” he said.

“The St Pancras team have been marvellous. They work really well with the boys, and give them a good challenge, which is what they need. It helps them to focus, and teaches them good discipline.

“They build mutual respect in and out of a ring for each other. Boxing has boosted their confidence and their self-esteem.”