TO help young children get out of crime, a new unique project combining academic studies with sports has been set up in Bromsgrove.
The Fight Sports Scholarship Programme – a not-for-profit Community Interest Company based in Aston Fields – aims to give guidance and support to potential budding athletes and steer them away from the pitfalls of peer pressure, crime and gang culture.
The scheme – set up for those aged between 14 and 19 from lower socio-economic backgrounds – provides young adults with training schedules and pathways to get them into the boxing industry.
Andy Hopwood, founder, was a martial arts coach for 30 years and decided to set up the charity from his own experiences of seeing his talented pupils move into crime.
“In order to reduce youth crime, the causes of young people committing crimes need to be fully understood.
“These causes could include peer pressure, family troubles, bullying, financial hardship, as well as drug and alcohol abuse.
“In addition to this, young people feel astounding pressure nowadays to feel part of a group. Tackling these issues can lower youth crime in communities and encourage young people to create a stable life for themselves.”
He added that when children feel more supported, it can deter them from making bad decisions and having something to focus on and progress in can be a distraction.
The coaching system he designed focuses on improving fitness, technical ability and ringcraft along with mental wellness & confidence levels in young athletes.
Justine Ledwith takes her son Rohan Cushen to the scholarship, and despite him not ever venturing into crime, she can see the benefits it has for young people.
“Rohan has matured so much during his time, and it has really focused him.
“He has never been a child that’s toed the line , but if you do have a child like that, it helps put their energy into something else instead of those things.
“Bromsgrove does have challenges, and this does provide something to focus on – it is a benefit for the wider community.”
Visit crowdfunder.co.uk/p/fight-sports-scholarship-programme/donate/20 to donate or email [email protected] for more information.
