A program developed by Thunder Bay Police Service members as a youth outreach tool has successfully completed its second round.
Boxing for Badges, an eight-week introduction to boxing, was first established by TBPS officers Cst. Frank Tropea, Cst. Matt Veal and Sgt, Julie Tilbury. The program was designed to give at-risk youths, or students who otherwise wouldn’t have a chance, an opportunity to try the sport.
Boxing for Badges first launched in 2018 with support from local martial arts school Leading Edge Gym and a grant from Canadian Tire’s Jump Start program. After receiving another Jump Start grant, School Resource officer Cst. Tropea decided to bring a re-vamped Boxing for Badges directly into participating schools.
“It was a lot of fun,” said Cst. Tropea about the program that concluded at St. James and St. Ann schools in December of 2019. “It was kind of sad to see it end … but definitely a very, very positive outcome.”
Staff from participating schools agreed with Cst. Tropea’s conclusion.
“One of the things that we’re really trying to focus on here at St. James Public School is building community partnerships,” said St. James Public School Principal Angelina Tassone.
“It helps our students recognize there are lots of caring adults in the community that are here to help them, and it also gives them some unique experiences they may not have had an opportunity to do outside the school.”
Tassone said when the concept of Boxing for Badges was brought to their attention staff immediately saw the two it was a great opportunity to connect students with community police officers while engaging in physical activities.
School staff even volunteered their time to help run the program.
“It’s been so exciting to see some of our students come out of their shells,” Tassone added. “Some of the students socialize here at boxing in a way that didn’t necessarily do in a regular classroom.”
Some of the students involved in Boxing for Badges became more outgoing and engaged as a result of their participation.
“I’ve made quite a bit of progress,” said Felicia Spence, St. James Public School student and Boxing for Badges graduate.
“It feels pretty good to be honest. I feel like I’m a lot stronger than before and I may continue on from this because it is something that I really enjoy.”
Boxing for Badges is made possible through a generous grant from Canadian Tire’s Jumpstart program. Learn more about Jumpstart here: https://jumpstart.canadiantire.ca/