The Future of Hyde's Boxing Club in Doubt: A Community's Concern
The amateur boxing club where the legendary Ricky Hatton honed his skills could soon be facing an uncertain future. The site, owned by Tameside Borough Council, has been sold, leaving the club without a home. This has sparked concern among the community, especially those who have been closely tied to the club for decades.
Steve Strong, the head coach of Hyde & District Amateur Boxing Club, expressed his distress, saying, 'It's a disaster. I don't want this place to shut. The boxers won't hang about, they'll go elsewhere, and the youngsters won't have anywhere to go.'
The club, established in the 1970s, serves as a hub for hundreds of people of all ages, offering not just boxing but also fitness and community support. Paul McIlvenny, a trainer at the club, highlighted the social impact, noting the strong sense of community among the members, including parents and their children, who are in regular contact via a WhatsApp group.
The club's building, deemed 'not fit for purpose' by the council, is now in a state of uncertainty. While there are no immediate redevelopment plans, the council's decision has left the club's future in doubt. McIlvenny, who grew up with Hatton and trained him in his pre-teenage years, emphasized the club's significance, stating, 'His roots are here. He was born and bred here and started his amateur career here.'
The impact of this potential loss extends beyond the boxing ring. Young boxers like 16-year-old Oscar and 23-year-old Tyler Daulby have shared how the club keeps them fit, happy, and out of trouble. Daulby particularly noted the club's role in supporting mental health and providing a sense of community.
As the community grapples with this news, the question remains: What will become of the Hyde & District Amateur Boxing Club, and how will the loss of this cherished space affect the lives of those who call it home?
