A young boxer from Jarrow who has overcome significant health issues is being supported to achieve his sporting goals by local company, SOS Group, which has delivered office services on the world stage at internationally significant sports competitions.
Charlie Lewis, aged 14 attends Jarrow School, and has struggled with fitness all his life, having been born prematurely and diagnosed with chronic lung disease. When he was younger, he suffered from regular chest infections and had numerous hospital admissions.
Tina Lewis, Charlie’s mam, has always been keen for him to try and build his fitness and improve his lung strength, but finding the right kind of activity proved difficult at first.
Tina says: “I wanted Charlie to have the opportunity to improve his fitness and his lung strength suffers in the winter weather, so outdoor sports like football were no good.
“His brother was going to a local boxing gym and suggested boxing for fitness might be a good option and he’s really taken to it.
“His first coach, Sean Hughes, has been absolutely brilliant and helped him develop at his own pace, building his fitness and learning skills in a safe and controlled environment. Charlie’s either boxing or at the gym every night. His commitment is amazing.”
Office technology company, SOS Group, has a long history of supporting talented young individuals within the North East. After hearing about Charlie’s passion for boxing and the difficulties he has faced, they offered a sponsorship package to support him.
Not only has this has enabled Charlie to buy kit for his first fight, including a vest, shorts and headguard, it has given him additional confidence to pursue his sporting ambitions and he is now a member of The Legion Boxing Club in Boldon Colliery.
Tina adds: “The sponsorship from SOS Group has come along at just the right time. Charlie is waiting to hear about his first fight and he’s so focussed on preparing well for that.
“Charlie’s very keen to continue boxing and is factoring the sport into his college choices. His ultimate aim is to become a national boxer or a professional. It’s amazing to think how far he’s come.”
Established in 2002, SOS Group is an awardwinning company based on the Team Valley and providing digital office equipment services for business from startups to multi nationals.
It also a proven track record in the sporting events sector and is trusted to help deliver international competitions including the 2024 World Athletics Indoor Championships, IAAF World Athletics Championships, the Special Olympics GB National Games, British Swimming Summer Championships and World Para Athletics Championships.
Andrew Skelton, a Director at SOS Group, says: “We’re all very proud to support Charlie, who has overcome challenging health issues to become a boxer.
“SOS Group began as a small company and we’ve grown to provide office services at some of the world’s largest sporting events. It’s a pleasure to support others to achieve their ambitions and look forward to the day we see Charlie on the big stage.”
SOS Group has always supported the people and organisations who are making a positive difference to local communities within the North East. Over the last year, the company has provided hands-on and financial support for more than 30 community projects, charities, sports clubs and talented individuals.
For more information, please visit www.sosgroup-ltd.co.uk