Boxing is proving to be an excellent tool for rehabilitation at Middledrift Correctional Services.
Inmates take nothing for granted as they attempt to make their mark on the boxing stage.
Boxing is proving to be an excellent tool for rehabilitation at Middledrift Correctional Services.
Inmates take nothing for granted as they attempt to make their mark on the boxing stage.
Last weekend the team took part in the Mfuzo Boxing Tournament staged at the Indoor Sport Centre in Joza. Of 11 inmates who participated, seven returned to their cells with medals – four of them gold.
The team also came back with boxer and fight of the tournament awards. Lindela Mlamli, and Monde Mkhokeli and his opponent, respectively, took the honours. Middledrift boxing coordinator, Thembinkosi Mabi said the reception from the Joza community was encouraging for the inmates. The latter have been urged to take the sport seriously after their release.
“We can’t do it alone; community support is helpful for these inmates. This is part of our rehabilitation programme and we gain so much by being part of these tournaments,” said Mabi.
"This is the first time we have participated with teams from outside. Usually we fight against other correctional services facilities," he said.
The tournament was staged by Mfuzo Boxing Club, which seeks to promote not only boxing, but sport in Makana Municipality. Club Chairman, Wandisile Che, said they were satisfied with the turnout and the amount of support they received from the community.
"Our wish is to grow the sport in this town; not only boxing, but sport in general, as we believe sport is important to youth empowerment.
"We want to [be more proactive]and encourage more participation in boxing. This sport is about instilling discipline and developing the Cacadu region," he said.
The tournament started later than the scheduled time, but once under way the crowd were wowed by the calibre of boxing produced on the day.
Seven boxing clubs took part in the tournament, with boxers from all ages participating, starting as young as 12.
