Potts issues call for local boxing consultations

Potts explained, “it is my understanding that the Trinidad and Tobago Amateur Boxing Association (TT ABA) is attempting to establish a boxing curriculum into the schools in a clandestine way but there must be consultation.

This curriculum must be investigated properly because the state is funding this initiative without discussions of all parties.” Potts confessed that the TT ABA cannot do this venture alone especially judging from their previous records. “Since the inception of the Boxing Amateur Association 100 years ago the fraternity has not (earned) any medals at an Olympic or World Games.” He believes that there must be a revamping of the system to ensure future successes. “The way forward has to be through the schools and the community and boxing has to be taught like academics in schools; you learn the letters of the alphabet, then to spell words and finally make sentences.” Potts stated that amateur and professional boxing must work together because, in the past, amateur boxing served as a nursery for professional boxing.

Potts is calling on the TTABA, World Boxing Council (WBC), Ministry of Sports, Ministry of Education and several other ministries to have discussions on designing a boxing curriculum.

The promoter was willing to back up his words as he had, in his possession, a boxing manual developed by the WBC that will be suited for schools as it teaches the sport from ages eight years and up.

In terms of the timing for the implementation of the programme, he stated, “I’m writing all the various Ministries to inform them that a boxing curriculum exists so that the nation can benefit from it. So, in future, we can produce world champions like Muhammad Ali and Floyd Mayweather as well as create awareness and visibility to our country.”