Sergeant Cherie McLean is the Youth Club Program Manager of the PCYC. She runs a multitude of programs, including programs to assist youth, particularly disadvantaged youth. Other programs include RUBY (Rise Up Yourself), a free strength training program for women who experience Domestic Violence.But this visit was dedicated to a new program on offer: ‘Boxing After Dark’. This is a FREE boxing program for young people aged 12-18 years and is delivered every Thursday from 7pm-8pm. The program is delivered by Cherie personally at the Monaco Street campus, but will shortly also be available at Ashmore and Nerang.
Boxing? “There won’t be any fights in the ring, there won’t be any sparring”, Cherie clarified. The program is primarily designed to give young persons an opportunity to learn a sport, whilst they get an opportunity to channel their emotions towards a punching bag. This is a ‘back to basics’ early intervention youth program. The aim is for them to be physically active, socially connecting with the Police (and with each other) in a friendly and positive environment. And we provide some food… “Food is a powerful magnet for young people” Cherie assured us.
The PCYC runs various other programs designed towards Youth. Please download a copy of Cherie’s PowerPoint slides (see Download Section on the right), which also include contact details.
(Photo: Sgt Cherie with our meeting chairman, Ray Higgs)