Sport Islington

Sport Islington has just awarded the Times Boxing Club a grant totalling £1,500. The cheque was split three ways giving the Club the opportunity to purchase tracksuits for members. National Novice Champions Marlon Mellish, 18 years, and George Kean, 16 years, were awarded individual grants to help them with training and competition costs.

Sport Islington was launched in November 2006 to provide a co-ordinated voice for volunteer sector sport in Islington stimulating participation, competition and general awareness of sport and sporting opportunities in the borough. It is funded by Islington Council annually and has distributed £23,260 in the last 15 months.

Dave Ryan, Head Coach at Times Boxing Club said, ‘The tracksuits have helped the members look more presentable at shows and put them on an equal standing with other clubs. If you look smarter it instils a sense of pride and will help you box better.’

Marlon Mellish, who is studying Sport Science at City & Islington College, hopes to go professional in 3 years time and will use the award to finance his training and equipment costs. George Kean is in training full-time and has high ambitions, ‘I want to be World Champion in 8 years time.’ His first task though is to prepare for the Amateur Boxing Association Nationals on 18th April.

Presenting the Club with their cheque is Declan Hamblin, Secretary of Sport Islington. ‚It’s fantastic what Times Boxing Club is achieving not only in Regional and National Titles but in creating an opportunity for youngsters to fulfil their potential in a disciplined environment. I’m sure the Club’s members have learnt many life skills from participating in sport.‚’

Any voluntary sport club working in Islington can apply for an award, along with individuals competing at County level or above. Contact Dan Jarvis, Club Development Officer on 0207 527 1868 or at Daniel.Jarvis@islington.gov.uk for more details.