The achievements of boxers from St Paul’s Boxing Academy were celebrated in an end of season event which attracted well over 100 people.
The awards ceremony, which took place on Sunday, June 2, at the gym, saw Olympic gold medallist Luke Campbell MBE present medals and certificates to junior and senior boxers, marking their progression and successes in regional and national competitions.
Well-known Trustee of St Paul’s, John Rutherford, who led the £1m renovation of the gym, also took the opportunity to announce he was standing down.
John has championed St Paul’s for a number of years and has perhaps done more than anyone else to ensure the club has a bright future for many years to come.
Speaking at the event, Head Coach Mike Bromby congratulated each of the boxers.
He said: “St Paul’s has had another fantastic season with some tremendous victories for our boxers, and some fantastic performances at very high levels in the sport.
“This year we’ve boxed in Spain, the Netherlands, Guernsey, Scotland, and in the UK and have demonstrated the level of talent coming out of the gym at every opportunity we’ve had.
“I’m extremely proud of all of our boxers and our coaches. You all do a brilliant job and I’m delight to be presenting the end of season awards alongside another champion who trained at St Paul’s, Luke Campbell.
“Congratulations to everyone on another great year.”
David Garness, Chair of the Trustees, echoed Mike’s words.
He said: “The achievements of our boxers this year have been astonishing. We are creating some of the best talent in the country and that is all down to Mike, our coaches, and the determination of the boxers themselves. Well done to one and all.”
David also paid tribute to John Rutherford for his determination in ensure St Paul’s had a future.
He said: “Without John’s hard work and dedication, none of us would be standing here today to celebrate the achievements of these amazing athletes.
“John’s determination to help rebuild the gym and give them a place they could continue to train in has been nothing short of inspirational and we cannot thank him enough for his hard work and commitment.
“I would like to thank him for everything he has done as a Trustee and wish him all the best for the future, although he will always be part of the St Paul’s family.”