HEART OF HAYLING BOXING ACADEMY

In 2018, Knox co-founded the Heart of Hayling Boxing Academy, a non-competitive club built around the GB National Boxing Awards program. Unlike traditional boxing gyms, Heart of Hayling is dedicated to personal growth, not trophies—offering a safe, inclusive space where young people can build confidence, discipline, and resilience.

​

The academy delivers a structured six-level awards program that includes non-contact and semi-contact training. For every level completed, participants earn medals and certificates that not only celebrate their progress but also count toward wider achievements such as the Duke of Edinburgh Award, ASDAN, and even GCSE qualifications.

​

While some graduates of the program go on to compete in the ring, others take a different path—becoming Boxing Tutors and stepping into leadership roles as coaches. Many do both, inspired by the sense of purpose and community they’ve found at the club.

​

The impact of Heart of Hayling hasn’t gone unnoticed. In its journey toward earning the prestigious Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service (QAVS), the academy was also honored with the Lord Mayor’s Award for Best New Club and the High Sheriff’s Award for Outstanding Community Service. Knox himself received an individual Lord Mayor’s Award for his contributions to boxing and the community.

​

Though the academy asks for a small entrance fee, no young person is ever turned away. Whether they give a little or nothing at all, their presence and participation are what matter most.

At its core, The Gift of Being Broken—like the Heart of Hayling Academy—is a tribute to mastering oneself and finding strength in service to others. It’s an act of quiet, persistent bravery.

​

Find HOH at: