Adaptive Boxing Programme in East Sussex Aims for Paralympic Recognition

Adaptive Boxing Programme in East Sussex Aims for Paralympic Recognition

A boxing club in East Sussex is leading the way in making the sport more inclusive and accessible for people with disabilities. Brighton and Hove Boxing Gym’s adaptive boxing programme, supported by the World Boxing Council (WBC), is gaining popularity and recognition for its innovative approach.

Led by Kieran Green, who has cerebral palsy, the programme offers weekly sessions for individuals with a range of disabilities, including wheelchair boxers and those with Parkinson’s disease. The focus is on teaching a “safer style of boxing” that emphasizes skill development and fitness, rather than just taking hits.

The gym, which has a rich history dating back to 1946 and has hosted boxing legends like Tyson Fury and Lennox Lewis, is committed to expanding its accessible coaching programme to other gyms in the South East of England. The carefully planned training sessions cover a range of skills, including defense, and are designed to be both challenging and enjoyable.

Participants like Johnny Dawson-Ellis, who travels from Kent to attend the sessions, and Victoria Lacy, who has been boxing since 2019, praise the programme for its stress-relieving benefits and empowering impact. They believe that other boxing gyms should follow suit and offer similar programmes to promote inclusivity and diversity in the sport.

Kieran Green, who competes in exhibition bouts himself, has a bigger vision for the adaptive boxing programme – he wants to see it become a Paralympic sport. With the support of the WBC and the growing interest from participants and spectators, adaptive boxing could soon earn its place on the world stage.