Ryton ABC win Sports Club of the Year at regional award show
June 23, 2023 | by Chris Boyd
Ryton Amateur Boxing Club continue to enjoy their new lease of life after scooping the Sports Club of the Year award at the Gateshead Council Awards 2023.
The boxing club came first in a pool of three nominees, which also included Gateshead Rugby Club and Cardinal Hornets Basketball Club.
The Sports Club of the Year award recognises, ‘outstanding services to the community of Gateshead.’
Head coach Jonathan Holmes, along with his small team, re-opened Ryton ABC in April 2022 after the original club closed following the COVID-19 pandemic.
Since then, Ryton has gone from strength to strength providing women’s sessions, supporting the White Ribbon Alliance, and working alongside police to give opportunities to young people – amongst a host of other great initiatives.
Ryton, based a few miles outside of Newcastle, was presented with the award at a ceremony held on Wednesday 21st June 2023.
After winning the award, Holmes and his team were quick to recognise the success of their predecessors Chris Shaw and Bob Bates, who opened the original Ryton in 1985 and managed it successfully until its closure.
“This would not be possible if it wasn’t for the amazing foundations built by Chris and Bob.
“They tirelessly gave back to the community to improve the lives of others for over 35 years.
“We would like to give a huge thank you to everyone who voted, the coaching staff, boxers, supporters, sponsors, family, friends, and parents. To Holy Cross Church, West Gateshead Sporting Alliance, Brighten Ryton, Gateshead Council, England Boxing, TTW association and all of the other clubs we work with.
“We are hugely grateful for the love and support.”
