The Eden Park Boxing Club is seeing a growth in numbers

The Eden Park Boxing Club is making boxing great again. A rise in the number of young people joining the club suggests the sport is becoming increasingly attractive to Eden Park’s youth.

“We are seeing more and more young people coming to train. They are not only from Eden Park, but also from surrounding townships such as Phola Park and Greenfields. The numbers are so big that our gym can no longer accommodate everyone. We are, however, grateful to John Carelse who now allows us to use the local tennis club, which is larger, to house and train our fighters,” said Sydney Kok, chairman of the Eden Park Boxing Club.

“There is a lot of talent among these youngsters. It is good for them to focus on both school and boxing, so that they can become positive role models in their communities. They get so excited about stepping into the ring and sparring. I also admire the spirit and good sportsmanship they display,” Kok added.

Boxing in South Africa as a whole is also experiencing a resurgence, with fresh investment boosting the sport.

Through the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, the government is supporting boxing by opening up more funding opportunities.

South Africa has seen a growing number of world champions, alongside the popularity of celebrity boxing events.

These initiatives aim to revive the sport, strengthen its structures, and raise the profile of boxers, giving them the recognition they deserve.