How NCS helped Simon change his mindset
Simon’s NCS local community experience packed a punch, in more than one way! Taking part in HYPE Merseyside’s Boxing and Fitness programme at Hard Hitters boxing gym, he not only learnt how to throw a mean right hook, but how to turn that energy into positive action.
5 min read
Changing your mindset gives you time to get HYPE
For Simon, who “always had an interest in boxing but never had the opportunity to try it” this experience was perfect. Training sessions in the gym focused on boxing basics, technique, fitness, and conditioning. And then, pro boxer (and coach) Luke Nevin, opened up the floor for team discussions.
“Luke would check in, see how we were doing, and give us the chance to ask questions”. These ranged from stories about Luke’s childhood and boxing career, to life skills, motivation, and struggles.
It’s always a good thing to hear about other people’s stories. Whether they’re a professional, a famous person, your family and friends, or your neighbour down the street. The more we understand other people, the more we can empathise. And you never know, that person you admire might have just had the same upbringing as you, or be interested in the same things. And when you can see someone like you succeeding, it gives more motivation to make it happen for yourself!
Simon doing some pad work with coach Luke Nevin.
How to help others by taking action
Simon put in work in the boxing ring, and outside of it. Part of his local community experience included going to a local youth club and helping to clear the outside area for kids to be able to play in.
“Volunteering at the youth club introduced me to a new place I’d never been before” said Simon, “and after that I wanted to get more involved with them, so I started volunteering two or three times a week for a few hours. I've been helping the staff, doing some sports stuff with the kids and my aim is to get paid part-time hours over there when I've built up experience.”
This is the great thing about going on an NCS experience…you never know the doors it may open for you! From team bonding exercises to taking part in social action, you can build up great transferable skills that can help you out in the real world, flesh out your CV nicely, check out how here 👀), and create opportunities to meet new people and make new connections.
Simon volunteering at the HUB youth club after completing his NCS experience.
Reflections on how to get disciplined
So what does it all mean for Simon now?
Well, for one, he’s way more disciplined.
"Luke taught us a lot about discipline and mindset. I was making sure I showed up to the sessions each week and was organised and not late."
And it’s made him think about what he enjoys doing.
“I want to make better use of my time outside of college and do more clubs and similar NCS type of activities now, whereas before I didn't know what to get involved in.”
Simon at a water and waste social action project, where he helped collect nine bags of plastic waste from Albert Dock.
But mostly? It’s helped him take on life, in a super positive way.
“NCS was insane, amazing, and it opened doors for me. I wasn't up to the best fitness levels, and was struggling mentally. Now I feel refreshed and I'm inspired to do more, get out there and find more opportunities.”
That’s a TKO* if you ask us!
Want to know what you could achieve in your local community? Get yourself on an NCS experience. Just take a look at what we’ve got to offer and sign up today!
*Technical knockout