Young people in Region Six can now cultivate their boxing potential following the opening of the Michael Anthony Parris Boxing Gym in New Amsterdam.
Named after Guyana’s only Olympic boxing medalist, the facility aims to boost grassroots sports across East Berbice-Corentyne. It forms part of broader government investment in youth development and regional sporting infrastructure.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport Charles Ramson Jr. highlighted the gym’s broader mandate, noting that its true value lies in character development.
“The doors that we are opening at the gym today are not just the doors to the gym. We are opening the doors to the transformation of lives, the lives of young people,” the minister stated.
He explained that boxing instils important life skills, including discipline, mental toughness, patience, focus and self-control, while teaching young athletes how to manage pressure, overcome setbacks and respect others.
He outlined a structured four-stage pathway designed to anchor the gym’s operations: participation, athlete development, competition, and ultimately, sporting excellence.
This approach will guide young fighters from initial fitness training and technical conditioning through to amateur bouts, national tournaments, and potential international representation.
He emphasised that access to proper facilities is essential to converting Guyana’s sporting talent into competitive achievement, noting that infrastructure plays a critical role in preparing athletes for higher levels of performance.
“I don’t want you to come to this gym just to become a better boxer. I want you to come to this gym to become a better person,” he said.
Importantly, the Minister said the gym’s design could be replicated in other communities because of its relatively low construction cost. This would let more young people across the country access sporting facilities without travelling long distances.
Ramson recognised local boxing coach Jeff Roberts, who first presented the idea during a presidential outreach in 2023 and continued following up on the request until it progressed through the necessary planning, budgetary and construction processes.
Drawing on decades of grassroots mentoring, Roberts highlighted his dedication to using boxing as a catalyst for social change.
“I have a good relationship with young boxers, young guys in the community. Once they come into my hands, I transform them. No matter who they are or where they are, where they come from and what background they are, I transform them,” he said.
Minister Ramson encouraged prospective users to approach the opportunity with a broader sense of purpose, reminding them that the value of sport is not measured solely by medals and championships, but also by the character and discipline developed along the way.
DPI
