Girls boxing pack Woollo Wolves to show off their skills at PCYC showcase
THE girls of Woolloomooloo are all too used to life’s low blows but a PCYC boxing program is helping them fight back against inequality.
THE girls of Woolloomooloo are all too used to life’s low blows but a PCYC boxing program is helping them fight back against inequality.
In an area where young women are statistically less likely to finish grade 10, let alone complete high school or go to university, the Woollo Wolves is giving the girls a constructive outlet for their frustration and helping them punch through the glass ceiling.
The girls in the pack, aged 12 to 20, train every Wednesday under the expert guidance of Boxfit founder and former Australian Heavyweight Champion Michael Isgro and Woolloomooloo PCYC president Bruce Collins. While some of the older girls are beginning to compete, for the younger Wolves the sense of inclusion is just as important as the ability to deliver an uppercut.
“Some of these girls don’t feel they’re a part of anything, they're on the outer, so this is really important to them,” Senior Constable Diana Ucles said.
“A lot of stories about women boxing tend to have a focus on self defence and empowerment and, yes, they are learning how to defend themselves but that’s not where this is based.
“It’s more about team work and making strong friendships and having role models.”
Sen Const Ucles said the girls transformed upon entering the program, which also provided them with a nutritional meal after training.
“I can see this level of maturity that happens once they come into the class,” she said.
“I’ve seen these friendships grow and I know the younger and older girls do bump into each other when they are walking around the streets.
“I’m a police officer so they may not want to always talk to me about something but these older girls will take them under their wing and look after them.”
The Woollo Wolves are recruiting young women aged 12 to 17. They have invited the community to attend a boxing showcase where the girls will display their skills on Wednesday December 12 from 4.30pm to 6pm.
Gold coin donation entry. Nibbles will be served.
To make a donation to the program, please contact Sen Const Ucles on 9360 5835.
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