Matchroom Charitable Foundation is delighted to make a £300,000 donation to pioneering boxing charity Empire Fighting Chance to support up to 100 amateur boxing clubs across the UK over the next three years.
Empire work with young people aged 8 to 25 who have been hit by inequality and poverty, and are often experiencing poor physical and mental health as the result of trauma and toxic conditions. They combine non-contact boxing with intensive personal support to challenge and inspire young people to realise their unique potential.
The outstanding results in their base of Bristol inspired local authorities in South Wales to invite Empire to replicate their work in deprived communities across the region. And now, over the next three years, Empire and Matchroom will work with around 100 amateur boxing clubs across the UK, providing them with the resources to deliver Empire’s programmes and develop sustainable business models.
Matchroom Charitable Foundation Trustee said “This partnership underscores our commitment to making a meaningful difference in the lives of young people through boxing, as well as supporting the long-term sustainability of boxing clubs. Together, Matchroom and Empire are strengthening the foundations of these clubs, enabling them to remain lasting pillars of guidance and development in their communities for years to come.”
Martin Bisp and Jamie Sanigar, Empire Fighting Chance co-founders said
“We’re grateful for Matchroom’s generosity and long-term commitment to helping us transform boxing clubs across the UK and beyond. Boxing holds a unique position within communities; people who might never walk into traditional support services find their way through the doors of Empire Fighting Chance and our partner clubs,” he continued.
“Through our network, we are reducing poor mental health, helping young people exit criminal behaviour and gangs. Our work saves lives, and alongside Matchroom, we have the chance to forever change the boxing landscape.”
Empire Fighting Chance’s story began eighteen years ago from the Empire Amateur Boxing Club when founders Martin and Jamie spotted two young men dealing drugs in a park near to their gym in inner city Bristol. They decided to tackle their behaviour by inviting them for a private training session. Both enjoyed it and turned up the following week with a few friends. Within six weeks 50 young people were attending sessions five nights a week. Over time they have evolved from a small boxing project into a national charity using a pioneering approach that harnesses the power of sport.
Empire now directly supports approximately 3,500 young people each year. Empire’s work gives young people the skills, knowledge, and inspiration they need to make positive changes to how they think and behave and to improve their lives. Despite the chronic adversity they face, they return to school, exit gangs, develop positive relationships, get work, and feel healthier and happier.
The Empire model has allowed them to identify exceptional organisations further afield, training and supporting them to deliver their work across the UK.