By Jonathan Brown
MOURNE All Blacks Amateur Boxing Club Head Coach Paddy Quinn was recognised for his long-term service to the sport of boxing at Newry, Mourne and Down District Council’s Civic Awards on Friday evening past.
The event took place at the Millbrook Lodge Hotel in Ballynahinch, with a series of awards handed out to “honour the individuals and groups whose dedication, kindness and commitment make a real difference to local communities”.
Paddy co-founded the Mourne All Blacks club in 1977, alongside Patsy Cunningham and Seamus O’Hare, and has been coaching locally for over 50 years, dedicating three to four evenings per week to the All Blacks club and supporting generations of young boxers in the local area.
The Glasdrumman-based outfit, under the guidance of Paddy, have produced several champion boxers over the years, including Paul Keys, who won various Ulster titles and an Irish title before turning pro, and Matthew Toner, who also picked up Ulster and Irish titles.
Arguably the club’s biggest success story is Paddy’s son Paul, who became the first member of the club to win seven Ulster titles in a row, before turning pro, finishing with a record of six wins in his seven professional bouts.
The All Blacks stalwart was put forward for recognition by local councillor Willie Clarke.
“It was a great night and it was very nice of Willie to nominate me,” Paddy said.
The 74-year-old, who was also presented with a certificate for long term service to the sport of boxing at the Ulster Boxing Council Volunteer Recognition Awards in March of last year, added: “50 years is a long time and it’s good to be recognised, but at the same time, I’m doing something I love and I’m getting rewarded for doing it, and that’s what stays with me.”
Councillor Willie Clarke paid tribute to the exceptional work of the Mourne All Blacks club and to Paddy’s dedication over the years.
Cllr Clarke, who was coached by Paddy as a young boxer, said he was incredibly proud to nominate Paddy in acknowledgement of more than 50 years of unwavering service and commitment shown to young people and families across the community.
“For over five decades, Paddy has demonstrated extraordinary dedication to our young people.
“Through Mourne All Blacks Amateur Boxing Club, he has trained well over a thousand young people, providing a competitive, safe, and welcoming environment where talent is nurtured and potential is realised,” Cllr Clarke said.
“The club has become far more than a place to train. Under Paddy’s leadership, it has been a cornerstone of the community, a place where generations have learned discipline, respect and resilience, and where lifelong friendships have been formed.
“Paddy has prepared countless young athletes to compete in the ring, but his impact goes far beyond boxing.
“He has helped shape character, build confidence and guide hundreds of young people through some of the most challenging moments in their lives.
“His steady support, encouragement and belief have made a profound difference when it was needed most,” he added.
Cllr Clarke also acknowledged the vital contribution of the wider coaching team and volunteers who support the club’s ongoing success, saying: “The commitment of Paddy and all the staff at Mourne All Blacks Boxing Club is truly inspirational.
“Their collective efforts have created opportunities, strengthened families, and enriched our entire community.”
