Aspire’s Ronny Tucker recognised at Move More Sheffield Awards

Aspire Boxing Club’s Ronny Tucker has been honoured with the Unsung Hero Award at the Move More Sheffield Awards, in recognition of his outstanding contribution to boxing across Sheffield, Yorkshire and the East Midlands.

The Move More Sheffield Awards celebrate the efforts of individuals and organisations making a positive impact through sport and physical activity, highlighting those helping to create a healthier, happier and more connected city.

Ronny founded Aspire Boxing Club in 1990 and has spent more than three decades supporting the local community, working with hundreds of people and positively changing countless lives. Many former members of the club have gone on to become coaches themselves, continuing the club’s legacy across South Yorkshire.

Run entirely by volunteers, the club is committed to removing barriers to participation and providing opportunities for people to engage in boxing regardless of their circumstances.

Ronny’s reaction to the award was as selfless as the work he has been carrying out for the last 35 years: “Although receiving an award for the work that we do is a fantastic achievement, we don’t do what we do for rewards, we do it to make a difference.

“We are a small Boxing Club, but the impact we have on people’s lives is massive. Often, the barrier to engagement in sport is cost, and Aspire Boxing Club helps people overcome that barrier. We do not charge subs; the facility is totally free. At Aspire Boxing Club, we help people to turn dreams into reality.

“Thank you to Alicia Winbolt, England Boxing’s Club Support officer, who does an amazing job supporting the clubs in Yorkshire. A massive thank you to the team at Aspire Boxing Club; the Club would not be able to operate without your continued dedication.

“Together we Aspire, Together we Achieve.”

Following the awards evening, Aspire Boxing Club hosted an open evening and celebration event attended by representatives from Sheffield City Council, the Youth Service, local councillors, schools and community groups, alongside the club’s boxers and their families. England Boxing staff were also in attendance, as well as former British Champion Tommy Frank.

England Boxing Club Support Officer Alicia Winbolt added her congratulations, reflecting on both Ronny’s impact and the significance of his recognition: “I was delighted to be invited to attend the Move More Sheffield Awards and to witness Ronny win his award.

“Ronny is so deserving of this award; the dedication he has put in over so many years is remarkable. He has a true passion for changing the lives of young people and has had to fight hard to get his club where it is today.

“Ronny is part of our Moves Different Programme, which is a crime prevention programme to engage young people in School years 9-13 who are most at risk of crime, violence and antisocial behaviour. He also dedicates time to support clubs around the County as the Welfare Officer for Yorkshire and the East Midlands.”