Following a successful launch earlier this month, the Mighty Mitts Boxing Youth Program is currently running at the Gin Gin Youth Activity Centre.
The free six-week youth mentoring and boxing program, sponsored by Bendigo Bank with support from the Gin Gin Neighbourhood Centre, aims to help participants aged seven to 17 build confidence, fitness and life skills in a safe and supportive environment.
Mighty Mitts Boxing Founder and President Hami Shelford told us more about the program.
Tell us more about Mighty Mitts Boxing and the programs you offer?
Child Protection Week Award winning Mighty Mitts Boxing Qld Inc is a Bundaberg-based youth mentoring and non-contact boxing non-profit organisation helping children and young people build confidence, resilience, emotional strength and positive life skills through structured boxing and mentoring programs.
The organisation also works alongside community groups to support young people aged 7 to18 who may be experiencing bullying, anxiety, low confidence, family challenges or disengagement from school and community activities.
Why did you start a club like this?
I founded Mighty Mitts Boxing Qld Inc after changing positions as a police liaison officer to a school support officer with the Queensland Police Service in Bundaberg.
Through my work, I identified the need for a safe and nurturing mentoring program for children under 12 years old that families could be referred to, particularly for young people experiencing school disengagement, offending or re-offending behaviours or victims of DFV-related trauma.
What are the benefits of a sport like boxing?
Boxing provides many positive physical, mental and emotional benefits for children and young people when delivered in a safe and structured environment.
Through non-contact boxing and mentoring, Mighty Mitts Boxing Qld Inc gives young people healthy coping strategies, positive role models and supportive environment where they feel encouraged, valued and empowered.
Why did you decide to bring the program to Gin Gin?
I decided to bring the Mighty Mitts Boxing Qld Inc program to Gin Gin after meeting a mother and her son from the Gin Gin community at a weekend family event where Mighty Mitts Boxing had set up a community activity.
With the amazing support from Bendigo Bank sponsoring the six-week program and the Gin Gin Neighbourhood Centre providing a venue, Mighty Mitts Boxing commenced on the Tuesday 5 May at the Gin Gin Youth Activity Centre.
What does it mean to have the support of the Gin Gin Neighbourhood Centre?
Having the support of the Gin Gin Neighbourhood Centre means a lot to Mighty Mitts Boxing Qld Inc.
It shows the program is trusted locally and backed by a community organisation that already has strong relationships with families in the area.
Most importantly, it validates the vision and culture Mighty Mitts Boxing Qld Inc was built on and helps ensure children and families in Gin Gin have access to the same kind of support and opportunities available through programs in Bundaberg.
How has the response been to the sessions so far?
The response to the Mighty Mitts Boxing Qld Inc session so far has been overwhelmingly positive.
The Gin Gin Mighty Mitts Boxing program launch had a strong turnout of 32 children, showing just how well the program connects with the community.
What would your message be to anyone considering taking part?
My message would be simple – come and give it a go.
It’s not about being a boxer, it’s about using boxing as a tool to grow mindset, confidence, resilience, respect and self-belief.
Most importantly, it’s about showing up, having a go, and being part of a community that wants to see young people succeed.
Mighty Mitts boxing program
Where: Gin Gin Youth Activity Centre
When: Tuesday afternoons (26 May, 2 June, 9 June) from 3.30 – 4.30 pm
Cost: Free, bookings required (spaces are limited)
For more information or to book contact the Gin Gin Neighbourhood Centre on 07 4130 4630 or ggnc@bundaberg.qld.gov.au
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