Building a Stronger Future, One Round at a Time: New POPBOX Cohorts Step into the Ring of Opportunity

This past weekend, the POPBOX Club celebrated the arrival of 25 new boys into the program, gathering at Southpaw Boxing Studio in Westlake for the official Phase 1 launch. These boys came from gyms across the Peninsula – Westlake, Masiphumelele, Ocean View, Oakland, Blue Downs and City Mobile – and arrived ready to start a life-changing journey.

2025 Welcome and Orientation

The day began with a warm welcome from Southpaw founder Tyrone Lloyd and the POPBOX coaching team. A special moment came with the introduction of Coach Yandisa Mrwebi, a proud graduate of the 2024 program, who returns this year as a mentor. His journey from participant to coach served as powerful inspiration for the boys.

After a short orientation on the POPBOX Phase 1 curriculum, each boy received their welcome pack, including a POPBOX cap, T-shirt, curriculum folder, and personal logbook. These tools will accompany them throughout their journey, recording progress inside and outside the ring.

Strong Mind, Strong Body: A Shared Philosophy

The boys were divided into groups and paired with their coaches, who used this time to explain the POPBOX motto, “Strong Mind, Strong Body.” In an energising moment during a group drill, the boys and coaches began chanting the phrase together – a spontaneous show of unity that set the tone for the program ahead.

Training Session Begins

With their gear on and energy high, the boys took to the gym floor for their first training session. This included:

- Shadowboxing fundamentals

- Partner and team drills

- Footwork and pad exercises

- Functional strength movements

While physical skill-building was at the heart of the session, the sense of camaraderie and support was equally strong. Coaches encouraged mutual respect and effort, and the boys responded with determination.

Quick Refuel & Logbook Sign-off

After a solid workout, the boys took a short break and refuelled with sports drinks and snacks before receiving their official logbook stamp to mark the end of their first day.

It was a simple moment that underscored their commitment and marked their place in the POPBOX journey.

Looking Ahead

The next POPBOX Club gathering is scheduled for Saturday, 23 August 2025, where training and mentorship will continue. With this strong start, we look forward to the months ahead as these young champions develop not just their physical skills, but their self-belief and sense of purpose.

Thanks to our partners, coaches, and supporters who make these moments possible. Stay in our corner. The fight is just beginning.

About POPBOX Club

The POPBOX Club is more than a boxing program. It’s a movement. We use the power of boxing to equip young people from under-resourced communities in Cape Town with the skills, mindset, and support they need to thrive. Through structured coaching, mentorship, and a values-based curriculum, POPBOX helps young champions grow strong in both mind and body, inside and outside the ring.

Our club operates as an informal, voluntary association guided by a clear constitution. While not registered as a PBO just yet, we remain committed to transparency, community impact, and the development of youth potential.

Step Into the Ring of Support

Every jab, every drill, every breakthrough, it all happens because of the people in our corner.

By joining the POPBOX Ring of Support, you become part of a growing community of individuals and organisations investing in the futures of these young athletes. Whether it’s R50 or R100 per month, your contribution makes a real difference.

📋 Donate or learn more at: https://www.popbox.club/ringofsupport

Together, we’re forging future champions. One round at a time.

Strong Mind. Strong Body. Strong Community.