Next Gen Gym is about creating a space where discipline, confidence, resilience, and guidance come together. A space where young people can build both physical strength and mindset, while learning from role models who have lived the journey themselves.


At the heart of this project are experienced professionals and mentors who bring not only elite-level knowledge, but a genuine passion for developing the next generation.

We are now rolling this model out in schools across the city, with a long-term vision of growing it into something much bigger and more impactful for young people in the future.

Meet the Role Models Behind the Project

  • LUCAS BALLINGALL

    Lucas brings a wealth of experience from both amateur and professional boxing, having competed in 30 amateur fights and 21 professional bouts. He is a BBBofC English Champion and IBF European Champion, with additional experience as a BBBofC Seconds Cornerman. Alongside his achievements in the ring, Lucas is First Aid trained and DBS checked, and is passionate about helping young people build confidence, discipline, and resilience through boxing.

  • JOEL KIRBY

    Joel is an accomplished elite amateur boxer with 50 competitive fights and international experience competing in Sweden, Brazil, and South Africa. As a Level 2 Boxing Coach, he has worked with a wide range of athletes, from young people and novice adults through to elite competitors and national champions. He is England Boxing safeguarding qualified, DBS vetted, and currently works full-time as Head Coach for the Royal Navy and Royal Marines Boxing Team. Joel is committed to supporting young people through structured coaching, discipline, and consistent guidance.

  • MICHAEL MCKINSON

    Mikey has built an impressive career over 12 years as a professional boxer, following 50 amateur fights and 29 professional contests. His achievements include becoming a WBC Youth World Champion, a two-time WBC International Champion, as well as holding WBO European and WBO Global titles. He has also challenged for an IBO World Title and made history as the first and only professional to headline in the USA. Mikey brings a high level of experience and dedication, inspiring young people to aim high and stay committed to their goals.

  • CHRIS SMITH

    Chris brings over 30 years of experience in amateur boxing as both a competitor and coach, alongside a distinguished career as a former Lieutenant Commander in the Royal Navy. He is a Level 3 England Boxing Coach, a Grade A Judge, and a Grade B Referee and Supervisor. Chris has also held senior roles within England Boxing, including Director of High Performance and Technical Rules, and has represented England Boxing on the GB Boxing Board. With extensive experience coaching young people and university students, including an England Boxing Under-10 Champion, Chris plays a key role in shaping the structure, standards, and long-term vision of the Next Gen Gym.

LOOKING AHEAD

This is just the beginning. As the Next Gen Gym develops, we’ll be sharing more on how young people can get involved, upcoming sessions, and opportunities to train and grow within this space.