Boxing academy unites teams in Ekurhuleni

Beyond Limits Sporting Academy, formerly known as Rabie Ridge Boxing, hosted a successful boxing tournament on April 26 at the Rabie Ridge Community Hall.

The event, held under the banner of the Ekurhuleni Boxing Federation, brought together young boxers from across the region as they prepare for the upcoming Ekurhuleni Boxing Championship.

The academy, which has been active for five years, continues to make its mark despite the challenges of running a sports club in a township environment.

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Now operating with eight active members of both genders, the club is proud to include a reigning South African champion in its ranks.

The recent tournament was more than just a contest, it was a stepping stone for athletes eyeing national representation.

Participants are now one step closer to competing for top honours in the Ekurhuleni region and beyond.

Founder of Beyond Limits Sporting Academy, Anthony Pries, said the initiative has always been about much more than boxing.

“Our club aims to motivate and empower the youth of this area. We want to help them stay away from drugs and crime, and instead give them a purpose in life,” he said.

Pries encouraged community members to get involved, even those not interested in competitive boxing.

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“While boxing is our main focus, we welcome anyone who wants to get fit and do something productive. It’s about building a future where young people choose sports over the streets.”

The club’s recent rebranding to a sporting academy reflects its intention to grow beyond boxing.

“After five years of building a strong foundation in boxing, we realised there was a need to cater to more interests. The community deserves options, and we aim to leave no athlete behind,” said Pries.

He also called for more active involvement from parents and residents.

“What would make a difference is seeing parents and community members at our events. When children compete without the support of their loved ones in the stands, it impacts their motivation. We’re not just building boxers, we’re building future leaders.”

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Beyond Limits is a family-run operation, with Anthony, his wife, and a team of dedicated trainers pouring their time and energy into developing young talent.

From humble beginnings training in a garage, the academy now uses the community hall and sports grounds to accommodate their growing membership and ambitions.

At the recent tournament, every participant was awarded a medal, while the top contenders took home trophies, each symbolising not only a win in the ring but a victory against the odds.