St John Bosco Boxing Club Plan For New State of the Art Facility

By Kevin McAteer

Did you know St John Bosco is the only club in Newry who doesn’t have their own premises. It’s pretty standard within the boxing community that clubs get three or four hours an evening every night of the week. However currently, the Bosco boxing club can only manage one hour, three nights a week. A far cry for such a successful club with over 30 children on their waiting list.

Plans In Place

Speaking to Clanrye News and Sport Adrian Patterson reiterated the need for a new facility.

“Milligan Reside Larkin Architects and Belfast-based consultant company S3 Solutions have drawn up the plans for the new facility. We are in a position now to approach funders and we believe it is possible to achieve the £1.3million needed for the new facility.”

A Beacon of Hope

Bernadette Curran, club secretary has expressed the importance of such an endeavour indicating how St John’s Bosco Boxing Club has become a “beacon of hope” within the Newry community.

“St John Bosco Boxing Club – plans for a new club! The proposed club will be a beacon of hope and opportunity. Beyond teaching the sport itself, boxing provides a safe space for youths, offering mentorship, discipline, and camaraderie. By engaging in structured training, participants develop physical fitness and mental resilience, channelling energy constructively.”

Positive Community Effect

St John’s Bosco Boxing Club continues to have an immense positive effect on the Newry community; the club has operated in the city for nearly 80 years providing plenty of opportunities for young people.

Bernadette continued:

“Boxing reduces the likelihood of involvement in negative activities like crime or substance abuse. Moreover, a vibrant boxing scene fosters community pride and cohesion, enriching the city’s cultural fabric.”

“As individuals flourish within the club, their success stories become inspirational narratives, spurring further community development and investment. This will be a fantastic facility for the Newry & Mourne area and it is hoped their dream can become a reality.”

ENDS