Boxing club raises awareness against crime and substance abuse
The aim of the tournament was to revive boxing in Mamelodi and surrounding areas, raise awareness of drug abuse, and keep children busy and away from the streets.
In a bid to fight crime, and substance abuse and keep children away from the negative effects of the streets, boxers from around Gauteng came together recently at the 7th Street Sports boxing tournament to raise awareness about these issues.
The first boxing tournament in the area was held in 2019.
This year’s tournament was organised by Mabetha Boxing Club in Mamelodi and was held at Bavumile Pub and Grill on October 26.
Club chairperson Santy Mabetha said the tournament consisted of 40 male boxers grouped into junior, youth, and elite categories.
He said it was open to everyone from the age of seven years upwards, and all participants walked away with medals and certificates.
“The aim of the tournament is to revive boxing in Mamelodi and surrounding areas, raise awareness of drug abuse, and keep children busy and away from the streets,” said Mabetha.
“The much-anticipated boxing friendly tournament saw the community of Section 16 in Mamelodi come out in their numbers to watch the boxers showcase their boxing skills.”
The tournament was also aimed at recruiting boxers, especially young boys and girls.
MC Maditsi Moseke weaved the tournament together from start to finish and reminded the community that they needed to play their role to bring an end to crime and substance abuse.
Mathole said they also wanted to encourage children from Mamelodi to participate in different sporting codes.
“We have a lot of talent in Mamelodi, and some of these include boxing. They are not aware that we have our very own boxing club in Mamelodi,” he said.
“The drive is to get as many kids off the streets and allow them access to physical training. We want to reduce the use of drugs and eliminate crime among the youth.”
The tournament also saw the coaching, guiding, and helping of young boxers with their fight preparation.
Mathole said he was happy with the turnout and the involvement of parents in supporting their children.
“This tournament will also sharpen the appetite of boxing fans and will go a long way in reviving the sport in Mamelodi,” he said.
“It is an opportunity for amateur boxers to gauge their skills before getting the chance to compete in the upcoming boxing competitions.”
The club is looking for sponsors to help with training equipment and a facility to train all Mamelodi children.
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