Sandygate ABC is East Lancashire's oldest boxing club, established in 1967. Located in the Sandygate area of Burnley, the club has had various venues over the years, including Mechanics, above the old Kwik-Save, and Britannia Mills. Currently situated in the Centre of Burnley on Hargreaves Street, the club is considered one of the best amateur and professional gyms in the area.
The mission of Sandygate ABC is to promote boxing, health, and wellbeing among all residents of Burnley, including those from deprived and disadvantaged communities, without any discrimination based on race, gender, politics, or religious beliefs. The club aims to have a positive impact on the local community's health and lifestyle and provide opportunities for young people to participate and develop within the community.
The primary objectives of Sandygate ABC are to promote fitness, discipline, friendship, fair-play, and respect for all members of the community, especially young people. Furthermore, the club aims to help young people build self-confidence, reduce fear of crime, and provide a constructive alternative to anti-social behaviours like drug and alcohol abuse. All coaches within the club undergo regular NGB certification courses every three years to ensure the highest level of competency. They are also trained in first-aid, child protection, and equity, and have completed CRB Enhanced Checks.
Sandygate ABC actively seeks new members through its school and social links and collaborates with Burnley Council Sports Development Partnership in their schools programme. The club also has a dedicated coaching team for both amateur and professional boxers, with Andy Howcroft and Shane Armer as the professional coaching team, and Andy Howcroft, Shane Armer, Reece Farnhill, and Howard Metcalf as the amateur coaching team.
The club is managed by a committee that includes various positions like President, Chairman, Secretary, Treasurer, Child Welfare, Matchmaker, Club Doctor, Coach Rep, Boxer Rep, Charity Manager, Funding Manager, Boxer Welfare Manager, Personal Training, Official Merchandise, Show Venue Coordinator, Home Venue Management, Official Photographer, Professional Promoter, Manager Trainer, Medical Advisor, and Strength & Conditioning Advisor.
To facilitate effective communication, Sandygate ABC provides a gym timetable that includes different classes for juniors (10-15), seniors (16+), and development classes for those aged 14 and above. The club also invites professional and amateur carded boxers to participate in specific training sessions.
Those interested in joining or contacting Sandygate ABC can do so through the contact form on their website, where they can specify their name, email, phone number, class of interest, and any additional comments or questions they may have.
