Simon Danczuk MP

Fighting for Rochdale, Littleborough and Milnrow

Danczuk backs boxing in schools

Danczuk backs boxing in schools

Rochdale’s Labour Parliamentary Candidate Simon Danczuk has backed Sports Minister Gerry Sutcliffe’s call for boxing to be re-introduced to schools for the first time since 1962.

The controversial move could happen later this year, as the Sports Minister has made it clear that if a pilot scheme in Sheffield is successful he would like to roll it out to schools across the rest of the country.

Mr Danczuk believes that lessons have been learned from the public outcry this caused in 1962 and the introduction of boxing in schools could help instil self discipline and self respect in youngsters.

“Boxing is one of the most demanding sports there is and I’ve seen for myself some of the amazing work carried out by community clubs all over Britain in getting people off the streets and helping them direct their aggression into something more positive,” he said. “Why can’t schools use this sport to give youngsters a focus and teach them about self-respect and discipline?”

Mr Danczuk added that in the wake of the shocking murder of Garry Newlove, the debate started by his widow, Helen, about youth aggression and anti-social behaviour must be kept high on the agenda.

“Tackling anti-social behaviour, teaching children respect and making our streets safer must remain a high priority, as we cannot let our communities be ruined by these people,” he said. “All options must be considered to make our children learn respect, restraint and discipline.”

With the sport currently riding on a wave of popularity thanks to the achievements of people like Ricky Hatton and Amir Khan, Danczuk argued that boxing could make an enormous impact in schools.

“There is a strong tradition of boxing in Rochdale and I’m aware that Hamer Amateur Boxing Club already does a lot of good work in the community,” he said. “But I think there is potential for a lot more people to get involved if it were taught at school.”

However, he was quick to address safety concerns for those worried about their children being forced to take part in boxing lessons in school.

“It’s important to recognise that this is not compulsory, it would simply be an added option on the sports curriculum,” he said. “The majority of training would be non contact and only with the right safety equipment and supervision from the Amateur Boxing Association would sparring be considered.”