More funding needed for boxing and martial arts clubs in Tipperary

Sinn Féin Local election candidate Breandán Ó Conchúir has called for more funding for boxing and martial arts clubs.

"In our area we have great boxing, Mixed Martial Arts, jiu jitsu, kick boxing, and other martial arts clubs that are providing a much-needed community resource. Unfortunately, when it comes to funding from both the sports capital grant and local authority grants they are often over looked.

"Despite the lack of official support these clubs are producing high level athletes, Templemore boxing club has produced 13 national champions since 2018, premier martial arts in Roscrea sent three athletes to the world youth MMA championships last year, Sam and Liam Devaney from Borrisoleigh who train in the kick boxing club in Thurles are competing at the highest level in muay thai.

"That a small rural area can produce such a high level of athletes in various martial arts is a testament to the hard work of all the coaches and athletes in these clubs. The local authority should do more to ensure that these clubs are able to develop top class training facilities to ensure they can continue to compete at the highest possible level.

"If elected to the Council I will work to ensure that these clubs are not overlooked in terms of funding," he said.