Investigating how boxing interventions may support youth in northern British Columbia: A qualitative study

Sport-based interventions (SBIs) are one method proven to help at-risk youth improve their lives by building relationships with positive adult and peer role models and providing a physical goal oriented activity with which to engage. This study examined boxing as a SBI intervention, looking specifically at if and how it may improve the lives of at-risk youth in Prince George and 100 Mile House, BC. SBIs have been shown to empower youth to choose differently by assisting them to develop positively (Wright, 2006; Pollack, 1998). My research focused on the sport of boxing as an intervention to assist youth towards more positive development, especially for at-risk youth living in northern British Columbia (BC), to form positive relationships, gain empowerment to make healthy choices, and decrease violent behaviours. To collect data, open-ended, semi-structured interviews were conducted. There were eight interviews completed with two boxing coaches, two adult boxers, who have been boxing since their youth, and four youth boxers ranging in age from 15 to 17 years old. Thematic analysis was conducted with the interview transcripts, which yielded three main findings: influence of boxing, boxing can teach life skills, and coaches’ have a positive influence. The significance of this research is well-timed and important. In a northern BC community with fewer resources available as compared to urban geographies, an SBI might be a more viable option to help youth become connected to their communities.