Former Roscommon footballer opens first boxing club in New York suburb

A former Roscommon senior footballer has opened the first boxing club of its kind on the outskirts of New York, highlighting that the sport is for “everyone”.

Former Western Gaels player, Donal Ward, plied his trade with his club and the Rossies — lining out for his county between 2010 and 2015 before relocating to New York with his American wife, Katie.

His journey Stateside reignited his love for boxing, and after fighting top amateurs and professionals, including competing at the prestigious Ring Masters Championships — formerly known as the Golden Gloves — at the iconic Madison Square Garden, his attention switched to training and teaching the sport.

Now, Bua Boxing — the first club to be opened in Astoria, Queens — focuses on teaching people boxing through personal training and small group classes.

Bua is the Irish noun for victory, which can also mean ability or talent.

“I have clients that are looking to compete in amateur tournaments here. Others want to learn boxing skills or some people simply use the club for fitness and weight loss.

“I suppose the main thing to take from what we’ve started here is that boxing can be for everyone,” Donal told the Roscommon Herald.

Donal had been training clients in different locations across the city but the craving for his own space led to Bua Boxing being born in Astoria.

It has been a hugely encouraging and successful start, which Donal hopes to grow in the months and years ahead.