Boxing club takes a swing at changing lives

Sisonke Boxing Club was proud to unveil its brand-new, world-class boxing gym in the basement of the Victoria Mall in Hout Bay.

Behind it all was Jonny Cohen, the club's director, who said: "This milestone marks a major step forward for the club."

For years, the club had been operating from a modest facility in Imizamo Yethu, attracting the interest of several youngsters facing an array of challenges in the streets.

"Thanks to a generous funder, the club was able to get the opportunity to expand its mission and deepen its impact in the community," Mr Cohen said.

Sisonke Boxing Club, a registered non-profit organisation, has long been a cornerstone of youth development in the area, offering a platform for young people to build discipline, resilience, and confidence — and "ultimately champions in and out the ring".

"The boxing club is an inspirational boxing programme helping young men and women, teaching them boxing skills, discipline, and even started providing a solid meal once a week to many struggling kids," Mr Cohen said.

Mr Cohen said former coach Bongile Centane, who worked as a petrol attendant during the day, had brought a sense of purpose to the youth.

He suffered a stroke a few years ago, affecting his speech, leading to the end of his coaching career, but still hangs around to guide and support the future of boxing.

With a rich history of success in the South African National Boxing Organisation (SANABO) competitions, the club has already produced multiple Western Province and national champions over the years.

Most notably, pro boxer Sandiso Centane, who is currently the Western Province flyweight champion and also the nephew of Bongile.

"The new gym has turned everything around. Bringing better hope and interest to many more boxers to come and join," Sandiso said.

Ayabonga Maliza, 23, said the club helped change his life for the better after spending 13 years with them.

"This club means a lot to me; it is not just a place to train, but a space that has shaped who I am. I joined the club when I was just 10 years old, and it has been a big part of my life ever since," Mr Maliza said.

"It taught me self-discipline, how to stay focused even when things get tough, and the value of patience both inside and outside the ring."

When he first arrived at the gym, he said, he just "saw red" and was looking to smash everything in sight.

"But I found so much more, I found a community that pushes me, mentors who believe in me, and life lessons that go far beyond boxing. Sisonke helped me grow, not just as an athlete, but as a person. I’m grateful for everything the club stands for, and I carry those values with me every day," said Mr Maliza proudly.

“Boxing is more than a sport - it’s a metaphor for life,” says Mr Cohen.

“From learning to roll with the punches, to grit, and the benefits of discipline, the young men and women who have come through our programmes over the years, stand tall in their communities.” 

He said these values, instilled early on, would be able to ripple "far beyond the ring, equipping participants to succeed in school, work, and life.

"The new facility allows Sisonke to broaden its reach through a range of inclusive programming, including daily nutrition," Mr Cohen said.

Youth programmes happen daily, and in the evenings, from 5.30pm to 6.30pm, the gym hosts a community boxing class for senior and advanced club members. From Monday April 7, group classes for all levels, will start daily from 6.30am to 7.30am.

For more information, contact the club's director Jonny Cohen on 083 441 5449, or email jonnyc@mweb.co.za