Hallein boxing club teaches young people respect and self-control

A boxing club in Hallein is using training to build fitness, confidence and respect among children and teenagers from different backgrounds, ORF reports.

Up to 25 young people train at the ASKÖ Hallein boxing club three times a week. Club chairman and trainer Tarik Asil said people from 20 nationalities take part. The sessions also aim to promote integration and teach teamwork, self-confidence, respect and discipline.

One rule is that everyone must speak German during training so participants can communicate and learn from one another. Asil has chaired the club for three years and recently qualified as a state-certified trainer. He has also founded the Fairmotion association to encourage children and teenagers to take part in sport.

Boxer Felipe Hurtado Herrera, who has trained at the club for two years, said boxing helps participants control their egos and become more confident. He said fights on the street were not part of the club’s approach: when tensions arise, members walk away.

The club’s training was featured as part of ORF’s “Wir bewegen Österreich” initiative for Austria’s National Day.