HAILSHAM Boxing Club has officially opened the doors to its new facility this evening (Tuesday), completing a journey from uncertainty to a brand new home.
The club welcomed a large crowd of supporters on opening night at it’s new premises on Station Road Industrial Estate, including local MP Nusrat Ghani and Hailsham Mayor Chris Bryant, as residents, businesses, councillors and members gathered to celebrate the milestone moment.
The evening marked the culmination of a challenging period that, at one stage, had placed the club’s future in serious doubt.
Founded during the COVID-19 pandemic, the club began in humble surroundings, operating from a field during a time when many people were struggling. What started as a place to train quickly grew into a vital community hub, offering a safe space, support network and a pathway for both young people and adults to rebuild confidence and discipline.
However, that progress was threatened nine months ago when the club’s previous premises were declared unsafe, forcing sessions to stop and leaving its future hanging in the balance.
Support from partners, including Empire Fighting Chance and Matchroom Boxing proved crucial in helping the club regroup and push forward.
At the same time, efforts were underway locally to secure a long-term solution.
Steve Wennington from Hailsham Active, highlighted the scale of the challenge, revealing the club had come close to folding due to its premises no longer being fit for purpose and its lease running out.
He described how a long effort to find a new home had led to a difficult but ultimately successful proposal for Hailsham Town Council to subsidise a commercial rent.
The move, initially met with some resistance, was eventually approved unanimously by councillors, recognising the club’s impact on the community.
That decision paved the way for the club to secure its new base on the Station Road Industrial Estate, a facility expected to house two full-size boxing rings alongside a gym.
Reflecting on the opening, Sam Buchanan said the support received had been overwhelming.
“To stand in our new facility surrounded by so many amazing people was a very proud and emotional moment.
“Through resilience, determination and strong community backing, the club has not only survived — but is now entering what it believes is its most exciting chapter yet.
The journey has already produced a national champion, with a new generation of talented boxers now coming through the ranks.”
But organisers stress the club’s purpose goes far beyond success in the ring.
Sam added: “Hailsham Boxing Club has never just been about boxing, It’s about changing lives, building confidence and giving people a path forward.”
