Beyond Boxing

Our Youth team kicked off Beyond Boxing in 2024, a weekly, term-based program which allows young people to regulate their emotions in a healthy manner, as well as developing skills in self-discipline, strength and physical exercise. 

Y Ballarat Youth Worker, Dan, weighed in on the program’s impact. “Since its launch, over 165 boxing sessions have been facilitated across more than 10 local schools or services.”

Young people are nominated by the school or service to enter the program – but it is up to the individual to show up and shine.

Attendance ranges from two to ten people per week but the feedback has been very positive, keeping our team busy and expanding the program and its benefits.

A growing program

Woodman’s Hill Secondary College, in particular, value the program so highly that they requested multiple sessions each term for various groups of young people, based on year level or the gender with which they identify, for example.

For Payton, a student at Woodman’s Hill, this weekly class is an opportunity for her to step outside of her comfort zone, learn new skills and collaborate with friends.

“I’ve really enjoyed it. Over the term, I’ve learnt things I never knew that I could do,” said Payton. “I like how the sessions are different. We’ve had a lot of different programs but it’s been a mix of physical and skill. I would 100% recommend doing it, it’s such a good program.”

When it’s time run the show

At the end of each term, the reins are passed on to the young people, empowering each through stepping up to demonstrate something they have learnt throughout the sessions. 

Whether it’s a new kicking style or public speaking, each young person takes something different out of the program.