Coronation Recreation Centre came to life at the weekend when boxing lovers came in their numbers to watch a tournament.
The tournament was a collaboration between the City of Johannesburg’s Sport and Recreation Directorate and the Hugenoot Boxing Club. About 15 boxing clubs and approximately 70 boxers from various weight division crammed into the centre.
The purpose of the tournament was to select a Joburg Team that will represent the city and the Gauteng Boxing Tournament.
The mood outside and inside the hall showed how much people still love this sport. Inside, spectators set around the boxing ring, technical tables and official well positioned to see what was going on.
When asked about the buzzing centre, Hazel Murphy, from the neighbourhood said: “It is not so often that boxing is hosted in Corrie. Entry is free and people came in numbers. The centre is alive.”
Boxing is an amazing sport meant to be fun while simultaneously promoting lifelong and daily health.
A young boxer, William Cele Mpani ,who arrived in the morning from East London, though staying in the Southern Suburbs, when asked whether he is not scared that his cute face will be ruined, he said, “I love boxing. So, I make sure to stay away from punches, I keep my feet balanced to be able to move when attacked.”
Mpani has been boxing for the past six years and looking forward to a great future in boxing.
As boxers moved in the boxing ring, it was easy to see how well they kept their weight balanced and easily keeping feet apart except when they were under attack. Strong punches staggered opponents.
A 21-year-old Thato Ndlemeza when asked how he felt when he entered the boxing ring, said: “At first, I got nervous but got better with time. I have learnt to do what my coach tells me, and it makes my fights easier. I love this sport. I want to hit harder, block punches from my opponents and win many fights.”
“I am pretty much in good shape and confident that I will do well. The coach has been good to me, and I hope not to disappoint him”.
Watching Thato fighting using different angles, not reaching and often staying in his range, was a clear demonstration that he came from a solid boxing stable. His balancing, timing, and coordination showed he was a better boxer.
The bouts were exciting, coaches were hyped up, technical officials looked highly focused, and the spectators – young and old – cheering, some screaming on the sides giving advice. It was fun all round and boxing was the winner.
06/04/2022