As you may or may not know, my 10 y/o lad Maxi has been training at Darley ABC for a couple of years now under the expert guidance of Luke Gallear.

It’s fair to say that Darley’s is a proper team... As Luke says .. it doesn’t matter who fights - they win together and they lose together. If the amateurs fight/spar then there is true mutual respect and friendship between all those who walk through the door at Darley Abbey Mills. They encourage each other and yet remain highly competetive.

But grass roots boxing really is a labour of love. Money takes a back seat to achievement.

Max is now an amateur boxer and each and every week I’ve seen Max train hard, develop his skills, remain respectful, take some and give some in probably the best environment you can imagine and certainly with one of the best coaches you could hope for.

But to keep people coming in prices have to be keen whilst all the time bags need changing, gloves need replacing, the best equipment is desired to give the proper boxers the best chance they have to be the best they cam be. It isn‘t cheap or easy.

So.. for my part on 6th April 2019 at the Roundhoise, Derby I am content to be repeatedly hit in the face and body if it helps the proper boxers get the best training/equipment at Darleys.

Any donation would be gratefully appreciated to help, even in a small way, the proper future boxers try and fulfil their potential.