Cheers for minister as she backs brilliant boxing club

MINISTER Katherine Zappone has pledged her support for a permanent home for Whitechurch Boxing Club.

Standing in the ring among a parade of young boxers, Minister Zappone was met with cheers as she told the crowd of her personal love of the sport, inherited from her father.

She also declared her determination to help the club achieve its potential.

Minister Zappone, who was at the club with Cllr Alan Edge, was speaking at the start of an event to mark its tenth anniversary.

The club’s achievements, she added, were all the more remarkable given that they have never had a home of their own.

Despite this they have 13 national titles, seven All-Ireland finalists, 18 Dublin titles and 19 Dublin League Titles to their name.

She personally congratulated Gabrielle Mongan on her European bronze medal and was encouraged by the many successes of the club in regard to girls’ boxing.

She paid tribute to the dedication of the club’s coaches, including Tony, Andrew and Derek Delaney, Philip Hollowed and Vikki Whelan as well as the many parents.

Cllr Edge added that the club had a diverse membership of both the settled and travelling communities in the area.