Breaking Through Barriers

Posted on by Dominic McGuinness

The issues facing women and girls who box was the focus of the latest 'Chase Your Future' event held at Bermondsey Boxing Gym. The initiative, a partnership between Maverick Stars Trust and Boxxer, has already proved hugely successful in other towns and cities, and the latest instalment was no exception.

Participants on the day had all previously come through a Maverick Stars programme aimed at empowering young women through boxing. All took part in a question-and-answer session hosted by presenter Ali Drew with a panel including pro fighters Caroline Dubois and Fran Hennessy, along with Boxxer CEO Ben Shalom and England Boxing coach Rachel Bower. Caroline and debutant Fran were attending just days before their respective fights at York Hall.

Following the Q&A, all were treated to a boxing masterclass with former world champion and Maverick ambassador Anthony Crolla.

Future’s Bright for Adaptive Boxing

Posted on by Dominic McGuinness

Furture's Bright for Adaptive Boxing

Maverick Stars Trust and Boxxer teamed up once again to deliver a hugely successful adaptive boxing session in Salford.

On this occasion, the tables were turned with boxers and professional coaches being put through their paces by the staff and participants from the Yorkshire-based Kronik Warrior Adaptive Boxing Academy - the country's first and only adaptive boxing academy affiliated with England Boxing.

Click below to watch former world champions Anthony Crolla and Scott Quigg - along with current fighters Mikaela Mayer, Frazer Clarke and Adam Azim - get to grips with wheelchair boxing.

Box Your Grief Out

Posted on by Dominic McGuinness

Box Your Grief Out

An initiative which uses boxing to help people dealing with grief, has proved a huge success.

Supported by Maverick Stars Trust, the 'RELEASE: Boxing for bereavement' programme was delivered by The Loss Project and Dennis and Dyer Boxing Academy in Loughton, Essex. Two groups of adults and young people participated in the programme which is aimed at people who are new to boxing or have little boxing or fitness experience.

The sessions combine boxing skills, fitness, strength, and conditioning with grief support, alongside a supportive peer group of like-minded people who understand the challenges of grief and loss. Plans are in place to develop the programme further in other areas including East London, South Essex, and Rutland.

 

Train Like a GB Boxer

Posted on by Dominic McGuinness

Train Like a GB Boxer

Young people in Manchester were treated to a two-week summer holiday project delivered by Olympic hopefuls Delicious Orie and Conner Tudsbury.

Based at Moss Side Fire Station Boxing Club, the pair ran sessions for local boys and girls aimed at giving them an insight into what it takes to become a champion. The initiative included boxing training, strength and conditioning, nutritional advice and general mentoring. All participants were provided with a nutritious meal at each session.

Super-heavyweight Delicious and Conner, who competes at light-heavy, are part of the GB Boxing team. It's been a huge year for 'DJ' who has won both Commonwealth and European gold medals, and qualified for the Paris Olympics in 2024. Conner is working at following his friend to the Games next year.

The Maverick Stars Trust 'Train Like a GB Boxer' iniatiative was delivered in association with Thermal Road Repairs - a Cheshire-based company that is committed to supporting the communities in which they work.

Huge Turnout for Feltham Fighters

Posted on by Dominic McGuinness

Huge Turnout for Feltham Fighters

The latest 'Chase Your Future' initiative rolled into south west London ahead of a Friday fight night at the iconic York Hall. Maverick Stars Trust and Boxxer joined forces once again to provide a fantastic boxing workshop for the huge turnout at Feltham Community Boxing Club.

Although injured and subsequently off the bill, top talent Adam Azim was on hand to help train the different groups in attendance. He was joined by heavyweight prospect Frazer Clarke who fights Mariusz Wach on the Sky Sports show this weekend.

As ever, Maverick ambassador Anthony Crolla put everyone through their paces during the very enjoyable event.

Fun in the South Coast Sun

Posted on by Dominic McGuinness

Fun in the South Coast Sun

Maverick Stars and Boxxer joined forces once again to deliver an evening a group of young people in Bournemouth will never forget.

Local hero Chris Billam-Smith - who beat Lawrence Okolie to claim the WBO cruiserweight title on Saturday night - took part in the event which comprised a Q&A panel and a boxing workshop.

Under the guidance of Maverick ambassador and world champ-turned-coach Anthony Crolla, the session in the South Coast sunshine did not disappoint.

Inspiring the Next Gen

Posted on by Dominic McGuinness

Inspiring the Next Gen

Maverick Stars ambassadors Delicious Orie and Conner Tudsbury put Salford schoolchildren through their paces during a special initiative aimed at getting young people more active.

The GB boxing stars visited three schools in Walkden, giving motivational talks to the students along with delivering training sessions.

Posted on by Dominic McGuinness

Sting Like a Bee - the Inspirational Josh Williams

A Bolton teenager is pursuing his boxing dreams as a fighter and trainer - all thanks to a Maverick Stars initiative aimed at supporting young people at risk of crime and anti-social behaviour.

'Sting Like a Bee' has enabled hundreds of disadvantaged youths nationwide to get off the streets, get fit, healthy, learn new skills and follow their dreams. Josh Williams, 16, is an excellent example of the project working to full effect.

Josh, who has autism and ADHD, has thrived since joining S.L.A.B at Elite Boxing Academy in Bolton. Hear more about his inspirational story by clicking below.

Salford Stars at Easter Giveaway

Posted on by Dominic McGuinness

Salford Stars at Easter Giveaway

Boxing royalty joined forces with the world of music and celebrity when a Salford gym opened its doors to the local community. Bridgewater ABC treated disadvantaged families to Easter eggs donated by loyal sponsors.

Those attending the event included former world champion Robin Reid, British and European titlist-turned-trainer Pat Barrett, and star of the show - Bez from the Happy Mondays (and countless reality tv shows).

Also on hand as roving reporters - Maverick Stars ambassador Jamie Moore and Maverick founder Charlotte Gilley.

Moss Side Taking Shape

Posted on by Dominic McGuinness

Moss Side Taking Shape

Moss Side Fire Station Boxing Club has opened the first phase of its extension. The gym now has improved toilet facilities, a viewing area and kitchen.

With support from Maverick Stars Trust, the club continues to thrive and change lives in one of the nation's most deprived wards. Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester, is a passionate supporter of the club and is backing plans for further building works at the club.