Disability boxing event produces an unforgettable experience

England Boxing’s Community Apprentice Rhys McKay and Manchester City charity City in the Community produced a memorable day of boxing for the latter’s disability programme, culminating in a medal presentation with a Manchester boxing legend.

The event took place at Trinity High School in Manchester on the 13^th July and allowed several participants living with varying disabilities to try the sport of boxing.

Rhys, alongside fellow apprentice JP, delivered a pad work session to the group, which included a range of ages and genders, before moving them into the ring so the participants could get a feel for the size.

The taster session took place in preparation for the “main event”, a list of bouts between the programme’s participants and the City in the Community (CITC) coaches, who they spend time with each week.

After the all-important medicals had taken place, it was time for the master of ceremonies to introduce each boxer to the ring – with their ring walk soundtracked by a song of their choice.

As the defeats stacked up for the CITC coaches, the confidence of the boxers began to grow and so did the bout list, with eight participants taking to the ring instead of the original four. All eight boxers stormed to victory, much to the delight of the crowd.

The boxers were then treated to an extra special medal presentation as Fox ABC’s and former WBA Lightweight Champion Anthony Crolla was on hand to dish out the honours. After assisting Rhys in handing out medals, certificates and goody bags to all of the participants, Crolla stayed to take pictures with boxers and coaches and sign their items.

McKay said: “It was a great way to end the event and celebrate the massive achievements of the participants.

“It’s something they’ve never done before, and it gave them the opportunity to try boxing in a safe and fun environment and one where they could be themselves.”

Sean Dwyer, Disability Officer at City in the Community, praised the work Rhys put into creating a successful event: “Rhys did amazing, not only with the event but in the lead up as well. He fully understood some of the challenges that we may face working with such a complex group.

“The participants who got in the ring to box the coaches absolutely loved it. I think it rubbed off on the others as we went from four taking part to quickly seven and then eight.

“Rhys should be so proud of himself. Thank you for making such an amazing day for the participants.”

One parent echoed that sentiment: “The details such as the medical and ring walk music made it a brilliant experience and my son loved it.

“To all the coaches at EB and CITC, you once again pulled out all the stops for our children and gave them a wonderful experience.

“Lifelong memories are made through events such as this and you’ll never know just how much it means to all the participants and their families that you give up your free time to ensure every sporting event is inclusive. Thank you.”