Carrick Amateur Boxing Club Launches Successful Saturday Night Drop-In Hub for Local Youth

Carrick Amateur Boxing Club has successfully launched a new Saturday night drop-in hub for young people aged 11–17, providing a safe, energetic space with boxing, music, and food. The initiative, delivered in sponsorship with Mid and East Antrim Borough Council and PCSP, saw a fantastic turnout on its first night.

A Strong Start for Carrick’s New Youth Initiative

Carrickfergus has taken a positive step forward for its young people with the launch of a brand-new Saturday Night Drop-In Hub at Carrick Amateur Boxing Club.

Held at the club’s premises on Ellis Street, the first night was a major success, drawing a strong turnout of local teenagers eager to get involved, stay active, and socialise in a safe and structured environment.

The initiative is designed specifically for young people aged 11–17, offering an alternative to hanging around the streets while promoting fitness, discipline, and community connection.

“Hit the Pads, Not the Streets”

Built around the message “Hit the Pads, Not the Streets,” the programme combines amateur boxing training with a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.

Attendees on the opening night enjoyed:

• Boxing pad work and fitness sessions
• Music and a lively social environment
• Food and refreshments
• A safe, supervised space to meet friends

The club was described as “buzzing” throughout the evening, with coaches and volunteers creating a positive and inclusive atmosphere for everyone who attended.

Community Support Driving the Programme

The drop-in hub is delivered in sponsorship with Mid and East Antrim Borough Council and the Policing and Community Safety Partnership (PCSP), highlighting a wider commitment to supporting young people across the borough.

Programmes like this are seen as vital in providing constructive outlets for youth, helping to build confidence, reduce anti-social behaviour, and strengthen community ties.

Local Business Steps Up

The success of the first night was further boosted by support from local business Vorrei La Pizza, who generously supplied 10 pizzas and 5 garlic breads for attendees.

The food proved a big hit, adding to the welcoming and community-driven feel of the evening.

A Safe Space for Young People in Carrickfergus

With increasing demand for safe and engaging youth activities in the area, the new drop-in hub is already being recognised as a valuable addition to Carrickfergus.

The initiative provides:

• A structured and supervised environment
• Opportunities to try boxing and fitness training
• A place to build friendships and confidence
• A positive alternative on Saturday nights

Weekly Sessions Now Underway

Following a successful launch, the Saturday night sessions will now run weekly at Carrick Amateur Boxing Club.

Location: 41 Ellis Street, Carrickfergus (below The Moghul)
Time: Every Saturday, 7PM – 10PM
Ages: 11–17

No booking or sign-up is required — young people can simply turn up and get involved.

Building a Stronger Community Through Sport

Carrick Amateur Boxing Club has long been a cornerstone of the local community, and this latest initiative further reinforces its commitment to youth development and wellbeing.

With continued support from local organisations and businesses, the Saturday Night Drop-In Hub looks set to become a key part of the community calendar.