New foundation will be a lasting legacy to tragic teen Falkirk boxer

The spirit and strength of a talented young boxer who died on New Year’s Day will live on after a new foundation was set up in his name to help others.

Tributes flooded in for Scott Martin, from The Bog area of Falkirk, when he died at the start of 2021.

He was only 16-years-old, and his death left his family and friends shocked and grief stricken.

At the time Sam McLeod, of Sparta Fitness and Boxing in Grangemouth, where Scott used to train and fight, commented on how respectful Scott was and how he had “didn’t panic under pressure, but instead had a razor-like focus in the corner” and had the “heart of a lion and was as tough as nails”.

Young Falkirk boxer Scott Martin tragically died at the age of 16 on New Year's Day

Sam revealed the gym was going to include Scott's name in the title for their stable of professional boxers.

Now Scott’s mother, Samantha Redding, has established the Scott Martin Foundation so his name and his fighting spirit will never be forgotten.

She said: “I have been working with my family and friends on some way to create a legacy for Scott and help others.

Now fully approved, the foundation is aimed at raising awareness about youth mental health and youth suicide.

https://www.falkirkherald.co.uk/news/weather/pictures-stunning-snow-scenes-across-falkirk-3129251

"We will be working in association with Scott's favourite place, Sparta Gym, to train coaches on mental health issues and help recognise warning signs in kids. This will help bridge the gap clearly so many people are struggling with.

“It will help kids through fitness and support and provide a focus for them. We now have a safe room named Scott’s Room in memory of Scott, which can be used for the counselling sessions.

“The foundation will also be there to support any child who may need assistance with fees or equipment. Scott was at his best when he was training and working towards something.

“That’s why I feel so strongly about this. All the money donated to Scott’s Go Fund Me page at the time of his passing will now be paid into the foundation.”

She added: “Thank you to all who helped me to set this up.”

https://uk.gofundme.com/f/28omgntvqo

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