West Herts Amateur Boxing Club (ABC) will provide two extra sessions a week for disadvantaged children after receiving a £5,000 grant from the council.
The funding has been provided by Watford Borough Council’s Neighbourhood Grants initiative.
Founded by Saud Hafiz in 2020, the boxing club currently caters for children and young people aged 11 to 19 (up to 25 for those with Special Educational Needs (SEN)) who have recently moved to the Carrowlands and Central Watford area.
The goal is to provide a positive outlet for disadvantaged young people who face isolation, loneliness and vulnerability to negative influences.
Watford Mayor Peter Taylor said: “Watford has a proud history in boxing, from the famous Buxton family to Saud and the more recent generations of Anthony Joshua, Shannon Courtenay and Shannon Ryan.
“Apart from the physical and health aspects, it is a great sport for training energy, focus and intelligence.
“Thanks to Saud's efforts and the grant funding received, West Herts ABC will have the opportunity to improve its existing services.”
Saud Hafiz and Mayor Taylor (Image: Watford Borough Council)
West Herts ABC remains committed to using boxing as a means to bring about positive change in Watford.
The club not only aims to improve physical fitness but also promotes further values such as discipline, friendship and respect.
A former amateur boxer who twice won England titles, Hafiz knows all too well the life-changing power of boxing.
Hafiz's passion for boxing began when he was 13, as a way to cope with the death of his father.
He said: “I was born and brought up in Watford and spent most of my childhood on the Radlett Road Estate.
“Life has been hard at times, my trials and tribulations began when I was 12 years old when my father passed away.
“Thankfully, boxing has paved the way for confidence, courage and a sense of belonging.
“It took a lot of discipline and sacrifice, but it made me the winner I am today.
“I want to empower our community, so that people from all walks of life can dream, believe in and achieve their dreams.
“It all starts here at West Herts ABC and thanks to the grant we can bring boxing to even more people.”
The next funding round for Neighborhood Grants is now open.
The initiative is funded by a community infrastructure levy from new housing developers and will be carried out annually to mitigate the impacts of development whilst promoting sustainable growth in communities.
For more information, including this year's projects, visit watford.gov.uk/community
