ABS in turmoil with internal strife

Amateur Boxing Scotland Ltd (ABS), the governing body for amateur boxing has had its trials and tribulations since its formation out of the ashes of the two organisations which had vied for control in Scotland , the former Scottish Amateur Boxing (Association and Federation). With money being sought from the Scottish Government in terms of funding, there could only be one single governing body to oversee the sport, and after a Scottish Government sponsored commission led by Barry McGuigan and with input from a variety of sources, the new limited company was formed.

So far so good, one body to govern the sport and a source of funding from Holyrood to assist in the development of the sport, and even an acceptance that the sport of boxing has a role to play in the development of youngsters by schools throughout Scotland.

Not so it would seem though, as the membership of the limited company are in danger of committing commercial suicide by potentially losing the very funding it has gained, with continued bickering on a scale which beggars belief.

Resignations galore from the board and two senior and respected coaches have apparently been suspended from participation in the sport for criticising the board of ABS on Boxing Forums. This latest acrimonious dispute being carried out in public will have a detrimental effect on Sport Scotland’s attitude to boxing if it is not resolved, and sooner rather than later!

Having been on the General Council for some time when I was involved with the amateurs, needless to say I watch this space with an interest doused in sadness.