Boxing returns to Geraldton PCYC, with new coach James West bringing combat sports back to youth centre

Boxing is returning to Geraldton’s PCYC after the youth organisation recently appointed a new head boxing coach.

James West, originally from New Zealand, will take over the reins after recently relocating from Northam.

West had been coaching at Northam’s PCYC while also starting the Wheatbelt Boxing Club in Northam, which had fighters competing in Perth and regional towns.

Centre manager Talya Quinn said it was great to see combat sports up and running at the centre.

“This is a great opportunity to get boxing and combat sport fighting up and running after a long absence here at Geraldton PCYC,” she said.

“James’ goals are to see the next young boxers from Geraldton become Australia Golden Gloves champs with long-term plans for local fighters to attend world championships, Commonwealth and Olympic games.

“Boxing has been highly successful in the past at the centre and was very popular with our young people, specifically male young people facing troubles at home.

“Boxing is a way they can learn emotional regulation, discipline, feel a sense of belonging as well as the health and fitness benefits.”

The new boxing classes times and days will be announced soon, with plans for a new ring, strength training and a kickboxing space.

SkyBox Studio fighters Frauke Rawlings and Shareef Mohammad and Peacock’s boxing Gym’s Eric “EJ” Kyanga all trialled for the WA State Futures Squad in Perth over the weekend.

The Futures squad are selected individuals scouted as talent to represent WA in future tournaments; it is effectively State team representation.

The squad will be unveiled later this week.