**Ukrainian Boxing Coach Celebrates Milestone in Sheffield**
Oleksandr Pohodin, a Ukrainian man who fled his home country to seek refuge in the UK, is marking an important milestone – one year since opening his own boxing academy in Sheffield. The 35-year-old coach, who arrived in the city with his family via the Homes For Ukraine scheme in June 2022, has made a significant impact on the local boxing scene.
Pohodin’s journey to establishing the Pohodin Boxing Academy began when he volunteered at the Sheffield City Boxing Club, where he was mentored by Brendan Warburton MBE. Warburton, who founded the club, praised Pohodin’s skills as a coach and his ability to connect with young people in the boxing ring. “He was great with kids and brilliant with all members,” Warburton said. “He used to really muck in with everyone.”
Pohodin’s passion for coaching and working with young people is evident, having taken part in 150 fights back in Ukraine. His love for children and his dedication to his craft have made him a respected figure in the Sheffield boxing community.
The success of the Pohodin Boxing Academy can be attributed to the partnership between Pohodin and Syd Khan, who owns Syd’s Gym in Darnall. Khan was introduced to Pohodin through a friend who had seen videos of him coaching and was impressed by his ability to connect with young people. “I’ve never seen anything like it,” Khan said. “The way he was communicating with the children, they were so connected.”
Khan allowed Pohodin to set up the academy in May 2024, and it has proved a successful partnership. The club now has 22 amateur fighters, the majority of whom had never fought before. This achievement is a testament to Pohodin’s coaching skills and his ability to inspire young people.
As for Pohodin himself, he is keen to put down roots in Sheffield. Despite having family still in Ukraine, he hopes to stay in the city and continue to grow his boxing academy. “I thought I would live in the UK for just two months,” he said. “But now we are settled here. My children speak the language. I have a business. This is my new home.”
Pohodin’s ambitions for the club are ambitious, with three of his boxers set to compete in the National Schools Championships in Northumberland soon. He hopes to win at least three medals and eventually produce a national champion and then a world champion.
As Pohodin celebrates this milestone, it is clear that he has made a significant contribution to the Sheffield boxing community. His dedication, passion, and coaching skills have inspired young people and earned him respect from his peers.
**Commentary**
The story of Oleksandr Pohodin’s journey to establishing a successful boxing academy in Sheffield is an inspiring one. Despite facing challenges as a refugee, he has managed to build a new life for himself and his family in the UK.
Pohodin’s ability to connect with young people and inspire them through boxing is a testament to his coaching skills. The success of the Pohodin Boxing Academy is also a reflection of the close-knit community in Sheffield, where individuals are willing to support and mentor each other.
The partnership between Pohodin and Syd Khan has been instrumental in the club’s success. This collaboration demonstrates the power of community and the benefits of working together towards a common goal.
**Deeper Analysis**
The story of Oleksandr Pohodin raises important questions about integration, community building, and the role of sport in society. As refugees settle into their new homes, they often face significant challenges in adapting to a new culture, language, and way of life.
Pohodin’s experience demonstrates that with support, mentorship, and a passion for one’s craft, individuals can overcome these challenges and make a positive impact on their community.
The success of the Pohodin Boxing Academy also highlights the importance of community in building resilience and promoting social cohesion. By working together and supporting each other, individuals can achieve great things and create a positive and inclusive environment.
Furthermore, the story of Oleksandr Pohodin serves as a reminder that sport has the power to bring people together and transcend borders. As a refugee himself, Pohodin’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of sport in promoting social cohesion and integration.