Former kickboxing champion opens Oldbury gym to support community
Wayne Evans, a former European, British Kickboxing champion, West Midlands ABA Champion, and full ABA England coach, officially opened Evans Boxing and Fitness on August 30. Wayne was joined by the former Midlands, English and European professional boxing champion Tyler Denny and High Sheriff Award winner Shaz Saleem for the official opening.
Wayne, 43, said: "I started transforming lives through sport 22 years ago at Priory Park ABC in 2003. I have seen firsthand the positive impact the sport has on young people. Watching children walk through the door who lacked confidence and many troubled from broken families. Deep down, these were good kids, but they are swayed on to the wrong path.
The boxing gym teaches them respect, self belief, confidence and builds mental toughness. I have watched many troubled youngsters go on to win ABA titles. Some have gone on to learn a trade and open up their own business all from learning discipline taught at the boxing gym.
The sport has also transformed adults' lives too. Just recently, I have just finished with a client who was a borderline alcoholic drug user. He now competes at Hydrox events nationwide after being sober for five years, This is the power of having sports coaches or mentors in your community. The biggest reward from coaching is knowing you are or have been a support network for someone because coaching is never about the sport. It is a complete physical and mental mindset transformation."
Wayne is very passionate about encouraging youngsters to find their purpose.
Wayne continued: "My goals are to create some champions, steer kids away from the streets, teach them values and life skills. Hopefully, this will keep them off the streets where knife crime is rife at the moment. I also aim to keep helping adults make healthier lifestyle choices and live happier lives through my fitness classes."
Tyer Deny, former Midlands, English and European professional boxing champion, said: "I was really honoured when Wayne asked me to be part of his new boxing gym opening on Saturday and to cut the ribbon. It means a lot to me as I know myself the positive impact this sport can have on kids' lives."
High Sheriff Award winner Shaz Saleem said: "Boxing is such an amazing sport. After taking part in a boxing match, I admire the commitment and effort these athletes give to perfect their craft.
As a youth worker, I have always believed many youngsters need a purpose. They need that positive role model. Wayne is that role model who will better the lives of our youngsters. Many congratulations to Wayne and his amazing team!"
The gym runs classes from 5 - 9 pm and also give Personal training throughout the day.
The gym is based at Stumps, 90 Dudley Rd, West Tividale, Oldbury, B69 2HU.
