Boxing club hosts Youth Day tournament ‘Gloves Up, Guns Down’
Celebrating Youth Day, South Hills Boxing Club hosted an inspiring boxing tournament to promote positive change among young people
The South Rand Recreation Centre in South Hills came alive with energy and purpose on June 16, as South Hills Boxing Club hosted its Youth Day boxing tournament, titled ‘Box Fest: Gloves Up, Guns Down.’
The event aimed to steer young people away from gangsterism and crime, using boxing as a tool for empowerment, discipline, and positive change.
The tournament featured an action-packed programme with 15 bouts, including two female matches and 13 male bouts.
Each young fighter stepped into the ring to showcase their skills, take a stand against violence, and champion a future filled with hope and opportunity.
Various boxing clubs across Johannesburg South participated in the tournament, namely Booysens Boxing Club, Hyath Boxing Club Lenasia, Undisputed Boxing Club Ennerdale, Bee Sting Eldorado Park, Brown Bombers Eldorado Park, Maverick Boxing Club Eldorado Park, Central Jabavu Boxing Club Soweto, Randgate Boxing Club, Fight with Insight Boxing Club, Oulden Boxing Club Eldorado Park, Hugenoot Boxing Club Brixton, and Newville Boxing Club.
A key milestone at the event was the announcement of a new partnership with the South African Council of Psychology (SACAP), which will provide free counselling services to the club’s boxers and the community.
This initiative underscores the club’s holistic approach, addressing physical strength and mental well-being.
Looking ahead, South Hills Boxing Club is determined to deepen its impact. Its short-term vision includes forming partnerships with skills development organisations to open pathways to employment for the youth, offering hope and tangible opportunities for a better life.
The support of many generous individuals and organisations made the success of the tournament possible.
They especially thanked Donavan from SOG Security. Donavan from SOG Security for ensuring the event’s safety, Dwayne Du Sart from Ren Flex, Omar Abrahams from O and D Technologies, and Eddie from Compressor Valves & Accessories.
These sponsors helped to supply meals to the participating boxers. Their contributions reflect the spirit of the community.
The club also thanked the South Rand Recreation Centre manager, Sheron, operations manager Neo, and the City of Johannesburg for their ongoing support. They said, “Your contributions continue to uplift and sustain this vital community initiative.
South Hills Boxing Club, a registered NPC, has been a pillar in the community over the past few years. Its mission is to cultivate future leaders by providing youth with meaningful alternatives to crime and gang culture. Through its values of discipline, respect, and resilience, the club aims to change lives one jab at a time.
Coach Lyle Fortoen, the driving force behind the club, said: “We are grateful for every person and organisation standing with us. Together, we are changing lives, offering a new path for our youth, and building a stronger, safer community.”
South Hills Boxing Club remains a beacon of hope. It proves that, with the right support, gloves can be a tool for greatness and not violence.
To learn more or get involved, contact coach Lyle at 074 124 5952.
