A DECADE ago there were calls for boxing to be banned on safety grounds but the sport is enjoying a resurgence and even making its way into schools.
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Getting fit, forging relationships and teaching safety is part of why Tenterfield Salvation Army captain Joel Soper thought it would be good to get kids donning gloves.
In his younger days in Sydney Mr Soper jumped in the ring as an amateur boxer and he’s brought that experience to the classrooms at Sir Henry Parkes Memorial Public School.
“I used to do a bit of amateur stuff – my grandfather used to box and my dad and grandfather taught me,” he said.
Nearly every Monday for the last two years Joel has been working with school kids in teaching boxing – but it’s more than that.
“The parent’s response has been really positive – it seems to be working very well.
“It’s about helping form friendships while being physical and doing fitness… it’s a good relationship builder.”
Each week teachers will decide what kids will partake and it usually operates on a rotational basis.
“Sometimes they get the kids with a bit more energy to burn – it’s a good outlet for some,” Joel said.
The Monday 2pm class tends to attract 15-20 students and Mr Soper said they were looking at the potential of creating a girls exclusive class.
Tenterfield Police Senior Constable Todd Cremer has also gotten involved helping Mr Soper each week.
“It’s good for the kids to get to know him.
“He can earn their respect (as a police officer) a different way by doing this,” Mr Soper said.
Creating positive role models is also an important element and Mr Soper said the school had really embraced the classes.
“You get the odd one who doesn’t want to do it but most love it.
“If we don’t do a class the kids will be asking how come we didn’t do it this week,” Joel said.
Aside from practicing their punching techniques the group power through sit-ups and push-ups – some more so than others.
One in four Australian children is overweight or obese and Mr Soper said the class was a good way for the kids to get fit and let off some steam.
Additional classes also run out of the Salvation Army Hall on Tuesday’s with classes for juniors and teenagers from 4-5pm while a senior class operates from 5.30-7pm.