Flaxmere heroes: Academy helps lift self-esteem

Flaxmere Boxing Academy

The Flaxmere Heroes Calendar profiles people doing good things in the community. Alice Lock chats to those who feature this year.

November brings together a group of people from all walks of life who have come to uplift, inspire and encourage one another.

The Flaxmere Boxing Academy is a place for men, women and children to live a healthy and positive life together through the medium of boxing.

Founder Henare O'Keefe said boxing was used as a vehicle to create warriors in the ring but ladies and gentlemen in the home.

"We restore, uplift and heal one another. We don't judge or condemn we take on the good, the bad and the ugly and love them to bits."

The groups involved have formed a tight knit bond where healthy living, pride, self-esteem, affirmation and a sense of value have been realised through the academy.

The academy provides an opportunity for life skills coaching, practical boxing training, positive role modelling and leadership skills.

Events and activities are also held to encourage participation in healthy recreation and opportunities are created for experienced sports men and women to influence youth through exposure and contact.

Mr O'Keefe said there was a tournament with the Wairoa community and it was about supporting one another and appreciating all cultures.

"We come together in and outside Flaxmere. It is all about healing thyself."

Mr O'Keefe hoped the academy would provide youth with self-discipline and give them a focus, which would reduce truancy and improve behaviour at school.

"Since 2012 it has grown, we have had so many people and a lot of women turn up at our doors. We have actually outgrown our venue and last week we had queues of kids standing at the door. It is amazing."

Mr O'Keefe said considering the talent available the academy members are optimistic that they will accumulate local and national titles in the not too distant future.