Colin Green
My two boys have trained at Sparta for the past six years, since they were six and seven, so the club is a big part of their lives and provides invaluable structure and routine to the week. The eldest, like many boys his age, struggled with the transition to high school, suffering low self-esteem and anxiety, and I would argue it was boxing that gave him belief in himself and got him through a difficult period. But in particular it was the efforts of Sam McLeod and the Sparta coaches in a strong, supportive, family-run environment which made the difference, and continue to play a key role in the boys’ development
Theresa Harty
Liam, facing academic difficulties and the early loss of his father, struggled with low self-esteem and lacked male role models. At 15, he joined Sparta Boxing Academy, where the nurturing environment and dedicated coaching, especially from Sam, boosted his confidence. Through personal training and participation in competitions, Liam's skills and self-belief grew, leading him to become a Scottish Champion and a valued member of the team. His transformation included starting to volunteer at the club, further enriching his experience. The support from Sam and the team at Sparta has been crucial in his development.
Laura Muir
Having been a member of sparta for 7 years, I can't recommend them highly enough. They took a shy, self-conscious, quiet boy and gave him discipline, confidence, friendship, and a passion for his own health and fitness.
Most teenagers face the same issues, Sparta actively gave my son somewhere to go almost every day, kept him focussed on nutrition and fitness, and out of trouble. I can't thank Sam and the team enough. We feel part of the Sparta family.
Deborah O'Reilly
Thomas joined Sparta Boxing Academy at age 9 in May 2018 with some prior experience. Quickly recognized for his potential by coach Sam Macloed, he advanced to train with older boxers and started competing, winning his first title at the Eastern District Championships in 2019. Driven by a growing passion, Thomas, under the guidance of Sam and his coaching team, participated in numerous shows across the UK and training camps in Ireland, dedicating hours of training at the gym. Over five years, Thomas has fought in over 40 matches, securing multiple titles including National Championship Golds and Box cup Golds in Scotland and Ireland. His achievements include a British Championship Gold and European Silver, leading to his selection for Boxing Scotland's next Generation team for international competitions. The continuous support and guidance from Sam and the Sparta team have been pivotal in his journey, making his family feel proud to be part of the Sparta community.
Clair Haston
Lily first walked into Sparta at the age of 6 & from her very 1st day she’s never looked back! She is now 11, The club is a big part of her life. Sam and his team are brilliant with her and have been instrumental in the progress Lily has made from discipline, confidence and fitness, Sparta really does feel like one big family.
Sharon Murray
My son has been going to Sparta for about 8 years now. His dad suggested it would help his fitness as he was playing football at the time. Pretty quickly, Sam said he seen some potential in him and soon he was training full time there. Soon afterwards, Vitalli joined and started soviet training. My son took to it and the repore between them is great to see. Sam and Vitali work tirelessly to give the boxers the most amazing opportunities. He has won many medals, and travelled to Ireland and Romania, with more trips planned in the future. To be honest, I was not a fan of boxing, but as time past my view has definitely changed. It's not just about jumping in a ring and fighting. There's an amazing level of skill and thinking involved. It not only builds physical strength, but the mental strength he has shown and built upon never ceases to amaze me. The respect the boxers show each other is like nothing I’ve experienced in any other sports he’s been involved in. We couldn't be happier to be part of the Sparta family, and would definitely recommend Sparta as your chosen boxing gym. I can guarantee you won't get any better training and opportunities any where else.
