'Momentous occasion' as Limerick boxing club gets new ring

A NEW BOXING ring has been unveiled in a local city boxing club to support its ‘strong’ membership status.

Described as a ‘momentous occasion’, money was allocated for the new ring in West End Boxing club by Limerick councillors Daniel Butler and Sarah Kiely. 

Our Lady of Lourdes school in Rosbrien currently plays host to the club, having seen the benefit to students within the school. Coaches in the club are Mike Daly, Claire Daly and Eoin O'Brien.

Cllr Sarah Kiely says that being from the area means she knows the ‘value’ of the club: “Being from the area myself and now a councillor here, I know the value of clubs like West End BC to the community, especially young people and their families. 

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“We need to see more resources and support in the Ballinacurra area because it would seem they have not seen the same level of investment as other regeneration communities.

“Being able to support this [new ring] purchase in a small way is great, but there is much more needed for the club and the community,” the city east councillor concluded.

Agreeing with Cllr Kiely, Cllr Daniel Butler said: “From my time working in the area as a drug education and prevention worker, I have seen first-hand the benefit the discipline of boxing has on young people’s lives.

“It gives them a focus and framework to succeed, not just in the ring, but in school and beyond. Huge tribute needs to be paid to the foresight of Our Lady of Lourdes Principal Peter Jennings, in supporting the club so wholeheartedly.

“We need to see more of this kind of cooperation within the community to support young people to grow and flourish,” Cllr Butler concluded.