Paul is Mid-Ulster Champ
Tuesday, 17 January 2012
ST Patrick’s Boxing club have yet another champ. Coach Gareth McKeown congratulates Paul Higgins on winning the Mid Ulster
ST PATRICK'S Boxing Club in Burren is celebrating after their very own Paul Higgins claimed the Mid-Ulster Novice Championship title in Monaghan last week.
The event in Tyholland was the 11-year old's first ever competitive tournament but there were no nerves on display and he fought like a pro.
Competing in the Boys 36 Kilo section he fought his way to the semi-final where he had a convincing victory over Derrylin's Mark McKenna.
McKenna battled bravely but Higgins was the clear winner in all three rounds.
He advanced to the final where he faced Cootehill's Shane West in a tight contest.
Both lads gave it their all but Higgins claimed victory with a majority judge decision.
Ian McShane, one of Paul's coaches, said the club is delighted with his efforts.
“It was an incredible competitive debut," said Ian.
“His other coaches, Paddy and Gareth McKeown, were with him on the day, and Tony Hughes was a part of his training team as well and they are all incredibly proud of him.
“He's done the club proud."
Ian said that with young lads like Paul at the helm, the future of boxing in Burren is bright.
“It's a growing sport, it gets stronger every year," he said.
“There are so many advantages to it, it teaches kids discipline, self control, respect. They make friends here that they have for life. They set goals for themselves and the health benefits are obvious. It's a great sport for any young person and the younger the better.
“We have kids here eight and nine years of age and by the time the novice comptitions come round when they are 11 they have a few years experience already.
“It's not just for boys either, we have a very active girls league and we'd love to see more local girls get involved.
“The more we have the more competitions we can set up. The club really is as strong as the local community wants it to be."
In other boxing news St Bronagh's Boxing Club in Rostrevor are holding their annual tournament in the Balmoral in Warrenpoint on Friday, January 20.
It promises to be an action packed night and people are being encouraged to head down and support the club.
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