With the work being put in with young fighers, Enniskillen Boxing Club coach Shane Curran feels that the club is moving in the right direction and is hopeful for future champions given the talent there is coming through the club at present.

Shane travelled with 14 year old James McGrail to the Mid Ulster Championship in Gilford last weekend, and although the Enniskillen boxer was defeated, Curran believes he showed plenty of ability in only his second ever bout.

James, fighting in the 63kg category (light welterweight) got a bye to the final and fought a boxer from Cavan ABC, Martin McDonagh. In the first round James boxed off his jab, circling the ring and keeping his distance from his opponent and it was a very close round that could have went either way.

The second saw James build up a bit of confidence and land some hurtful right hands on McDonagh's chin. However, James was caught with a few light jabs that cost him to lose the round In the final round James was told to mix it up and take the centre of the ring, which he did brilliant knocking his opponent against the ropes and dominating the last round.

The result though saw James lose by an unanimous decision, with Curran commenting: "I thought it was a bit harsh but with this being only his second fight James has a bright future ahead of him, especially considering his opponent had nearly 20 fights. James proved he can mix it wth the best of them with little experience." In two weeks time Curran and his boxers will be travelling to Pilots Row Centre, Rossville for the Mid Ulster Boys 11, 12 & 13 yrs championships in Derry, "We have a few great lads coming up in the club who are mad to get fighting. You have the likes of 11 year old Rhys Owens who has naturally ability and extremely fast hands, and Mark Kelly, also 11 years old, who is very strong at his weight. Shane McGrail, James brother, will also be in action that weekend, as will newcomer Joe Walsh who will be looking to make a name for himself.

"The club is going brilliant, it's great to see such an interest in the club, and hopefully we will see more champions in the near future," said Curran.