New sister club to Nottingham School of Boxing set to open in Mansfield

A new boxing club is set to be opened in the East Midlands region that will be the sister club to Nottingham School of Boxing.

Switch Up, the charity organisation behind the city gym has announced it is to take over the running of the River Maun Leisure Centre in Mansfield where it is to set up a community club.

And as part of that project, the plan is to open a boxing club to help engage with people in the local community.

Switch Up will take over the day-to-day operation of the centre, on Barringer Road, from 1st April.

The community interest company (CIC) supports children and young people to reach their full potential through mentoring, education, counselling and physical activity.

“We are delighted to be setting up Mansfield School of boxing that will operate within the community with an aim to produce champions in and out the ring,” said Switch Up founder and Chief Executive, Marcellus Baz BEM.

We are delighted to be establishing a permanent base in Mansfield after having supported the local community for several years. The community can expect us to connect with them so we can meet their needs.

“Switch Up has a track record for deterring young people away from crime and antisocial behaviour, using the power of sport and personal development to transition young people into employment, training, and education.

“We look forward to working with them and with various partners such as Mansfield District Council, Nottinghamshire County Council, the Police and Crime Commissioner, local schools and community groups, to make not just the Recreation Centre vibrant but also the wider community.”

The hub and gym aim to provide a safe and alternative space for people to learn and develop and has been described and the handover – via a Community Asset Transfer – follows the agreement of a long-term least of at least 15 years.

The plans have been hailed as a ‘brilliant initiative’ by Mansfield District Council, with Cllr Andy Burgin, Portfolio Holder for Leisure and Environment, saying: “A range of new activities along with tried and tested techniques will help to steer young people away from crime and antisocial behaviour and help them to reach their full potential with increased skills and confidence.

“We look forward to seeing the benefits of this new hub in our local area.”