A FORMER soldier has taken control of the reins of a popular boxing club - and put an emphasis on community.
Gary Rodford left the army two years ago to return to his roots at Eastleigh Boxing Club in Bishopstoke Road.
The 37-year-old was named head coach upon his return at the beginning of June this year and immediately set out to make the club as diverse and community-focused as the town it serves.
Gary said: “Eastleigh is a really diverse town and the club is a good representation of that.
“The club helped me in the past. When I was 15 years old I was in trouble with the police and I was going down the wrong route.
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“I got into boxing and it put me on the right track. I wanted to push myself and boxing helped take me off the streets and I focused my energy on something positive.”
Club owner Stuart Rooney, 45, is excited for the club’s future thanks to Gary’s arrival.
He said: “We have got a whole new team and we are looking to continue with our community feel and produce new boxers.
“The club was founded in 1947 and has produced champions, so with Gary onboard we will hopefully produce more champions and also help the community.
“When I was given the opportunity to get back up and running, it was something I was really positive about.
“I saw the benefit for the community and it seemed a tragedy if the club went wayward.”
Growing popularity and interest in the “art of boxing” as (Stuart puts it) has seen the club’s number of members start to creep up to pre-pandemic levels.
The club caters to those aged ten and over and hosts junior and senior sessions, along with free sessions for Ukrainian children.
For Gary and Stuart, this wide involvement in the community is vital.
Stuart said: “Every community needs a boxing club. It helps people’s mental and physical health.
“The buzz in the club is absolutely fantastic and it’s a massive thanks to Gary for what he’s done.”
To find out more about the club, visit www.eastleighboxingclub.com/ or search Eastleigh Boxing Club on Facebook.
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