Norwich Lads ABC was founded by John Henry Dien in 1918 with the aim of giving young people a place to learn the art of boxing while keeping them off the streets while giving them a purpose and identity. 102 YEARS LATER the club is STILL GOING STRONG thanks to the dedication and hard work of the volunteers that run it.

Norwich Lads ABC has its gym set up in premises leased from The Hewitt School. We train three nights a week with separate training sessions split between youngsters/beginners and experienced boxers. We have 10 coaches, men and women with over 50 years experience behind them. They train the 150 plus members some 15% of whom are girls.

Norwich Lads ABC is a not for profit club run with purposefully low subscription costs to its members. We just manage to cover expenses. At Norwich Lads we are fully inclusive and for the young men and women who buy into the clubs ethos "Speak True, Live Pure" they learn the importance of friendship, belonging, commitment, dedication and family. And these are not just words. When I first visited the club just over a year ago I was immediately struck by the good behaviour, discipline, exemplary sportsmanship, but most of all the friendly care and consideration shown to one another. I could see that the club provides a safe environment for lads and lasses to keep fit and train hard. Over time I have seen friendship groups form and youngsters confidence and self esteem grow and develop.

Now, because of COVID-19 Norwich Lads ABC doors are shut. And I felt really, really sad for all the boys and girls. Train at the gym 2 or three nights a week was for many the highlight of the week. Something they passionately looked forward to. I feel their loss.

There is another less obvious loss for the club itself: we are not receiving the member dues with which we pay rent

And I really, really want to see the club open its doors again when we have KO'd COVID-19.

We must however pay the rent so that we can be there for the boys and girls to fight another day. Please give generously. Justgiving donations are paid into the dedicated club account.

Speak True, Live Pure