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03/06/2008
Launch of Oldham Boxing Centre
The man who puts Ricky Hatton through his paces has officially opened a new boxing centre. Billy Graham, who trains the Hyde-based light-welterweight boxing champ launched Oldham Boxing and Personal Development Centre at the end of May.
As well as being open to the wider community as Oldham's only ABAE affiliated club, the centre is part of a pioneering ACCE project, which uses the sport to help users of alcohol, cocaine, cannabis and ecstasy to clean up. Around 80 young people have taken part in ACCE since it was launched six months ago, boosting their health, self-discipline, self-esteem and confidence.
The project is a joint venture between Oldham DAAT and Manchester's former England international and professional boxer - and now a consultant - Eric Noi. Eric intends to merge active participation sport with both academic and vocational learning.
Eric said: "Boxing will provide the ideal medium for engaging young people and provide them with the opportunity to fulfil their potential."
The launch provided the opportunity for a chance meeting between Billy Graham and Commonwealth champion Craig Watson, who were in opposite corners the following Sataurday when Craig successfully defended his title against Mathew Hatton, trained by Billy Graham.
The event was a double celebration of the two projects and Billy spoke passionately about how boxing had transformed his life: "Anybody who says boxing can't change your life - I am living testament. I was always in trouble at school, I got expelled and I got in trouble with the police. When I started boxing didn't get in any more trouble. Boxing gives you an interest that turns into a passion," said Graham. "I think the centre is fantastic. Anything that helps the kids, gets them off the streets, gives them some incentive, I am all for that.. Everybody deserves a second chance. I hope it goes from strength to strength and encourages more people other areas to do the same. Some people need help and some direction to show them there's another way."
ABAE chief executive Paul King added: "Boxing clubs give something very special. They give people a sense of belonging in part of a community. Sometimes this is the biggest piece of social glue we come across. I am thrilled Oldham is taking this opportunity. Oldham has a very rich and proud history in the sport and I am glad that roots have gone down again."
Jimmy Hume (18) from Westwood has ditched cocaine thanks to ACCE and said: "Since I started this I have got other things to do, better things to do."
Richard Gibson (25) from Royton added: "It is breaking the cycle. Instead of looking forward to drugs and getting drunk, I find a lot more enjoyment going to the gym, boxing and keeping fit. This has opened up a lot more new doors."
ABAE CEO Paul King with Billy Graham, Craig Watson and Eric Noi