As baseball and golf season wind down in west central Saskatchewan and high school team sports kick off, there is another sport not to be forgotten about. Boxing has been a favourite among competitors and spectators alike, dating back to the first recorded match in 1681.

The sport has had mixed reviews during the years with some saying it is too violent, where others praise the sport by spend countless hours hitting the bag or sometimes paying top dollar to watch high-profile professionals battle it our in the ring.

One local man is taken his love for the sport and opened a boxing club in the west central region, sharing all that boxing has to offer people of all ages. Ken Blohm first opened Sandhills Boxing Club in Leader, SK., five years ago after taking a 20 year hiatus from the sport due to the hustle and bustle of life.

Blohm is the head coach and president at the club and teaches anyone who is willing and able to learn and states that, “although it is a highly individual sport, whenever you are in the gym in class or practising, you can’t beat the family atmosphere.”

He has seen the sport transform many young people, from those who have extra energy to burn and require focus and structure to others who may not have the best self esteem, walk out the door after class feeling accomplished and confident.

“I have had parents who watch their kids in class after not seeing them in action for awhile and become overwhelmed with pride to see the changes in skill set and are just really proud of them,” said Blohm. He added that even if the kids find it is not for them, the parents will see the benefit and sign up themselves for classes.

Boxing, although a combat sport, harbours many more qualities than simply beating your opponent. The discipline and desire to be better are qualities that stick with you throughout your life, not-to-mention, the confidence that ensues from the skills learned. It has been reported that many kids who do not feel comfortable or like they belong in group sports can often flourish in individual sports such as boxing.

Blohm said he teaches all students the fundamentals and even encourages those interested in getting involved in Mixed Martial Arts to start with building a foundation in boxing first.

The Sandhills Boxing Club is one of just 12 boxing clubs in our province and the only one in the west central region.