RILEY’S REAL BOXING TRIUMPH
Hamilton boxing coach Stephen Forsyth has tipped a youngster for the top after he used the sport to overcome bullying.
Stephen, who runs Forsyth’s Boxing Club from Hillhouse Industrial Estate, says Coatbridge lad Riley Milliken was shy and wanted to keep his head down in the kids’ class when he came to him.
However, Stephen and coach Colin Murray saw some raw talent in the 12-year-old and decided to push him forward; they believe he will win his first fight, before long.
Stephen also hopes that serves as a spark for any other kids out there who are looking for something better.
He said: “Young Riley came to the club a good few months back. He was being bullied and his mum and dad felt it would be good to help him build his confidence up.
“When we first met Riley, he was quite shy and just wanted to blend into the mix and keep his head down in the kids’ class.
“The more we got him sparring, and the more time we spent with him, we realised he had natural talent and ability.
“We moved him into the fighters’ class after a few months, and upped his training. Still not displaying a lot of confidence or self-belief, it was a real struggle to keep the wee man motivated.
“Loads of tears and tempers, and not wanting to spar meant we kept pushing on to get him to believe in his own ability.
“Loads of bumps in the road, and the bullying still continuing outside the gym, really pushed the wee man back as he just didn’t believe he was good enough.
“After a good chat with him and talking things through, we finally understood the extent of the bullying problem that he had kept from everyone.
“Some advice from us, and some belief in his own ability, saw the wee man stand up to his bullies, and over the next few weeks we noticed a massive change in him.
“Riley lost over 5kgs in weight, became fit, and put more into training until he was ready for his first fight.
“Although he didn’t win, he did us all proud; this little kid with no confidence or self-belief turned everything round in his favour.”
Stephen hopes that Riley’s story can help others who are struggling with similar issues.
“There is always another answer to being bullied, and people can turn things in their favour,” said Stephen.
“The boys always do us proud, every single one of them. When they put the effort in and step into the ring, the crowds don’t see the effort these boys put in, the crying, bloody noses and tempers... all to get in the ring and fight.
“As an amateur club, like all others, we travel the length and breadth of the UK for these boys, train them at nights and weekends, and when you have good news stories like that, it really makes things worthwhile.
“We would strongly encourage every parent to get their child involved in sport, and boxing at grassroots level is perfect for instilling discipline and confidence.”
For more information, visit forsythsboxingclub.co.uk or call Stephen on 07900 564200.