Revamping academy, Assam branch on Mary Kom's agenda
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, August 10, 2012: Olympic bronze medalist MC Mary Kom has said that she would restructure and streamline her boxing academy in Imphal.

While Manipur Government has announced a cash award of Rs 50 lakh and two acres of land in Imphal to the five-time world boxing champion, Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi has said that his Government would extend a Rs 20 lakh reward to her.

Gogoi said his Government would also welcome Mary if she desires to set up a boxing academy in Assam.

The academy christened 'MC Mary Kom Boxing Academy' has produced hordes of outstanding boxers at both the National and State level competitions.

She spends nearly Rs 50,000 per month in running the academy established in 2006.Thirty five young boxers from across the State are currently learning the tough game in the academy located at her Langol games village residential complex in Imphal West.

"I'm thankful to all who encouraged me and prayed for me before and after my Olymic bouts.

Also I extend my heartiest gratitude to Manipur and Assam Chief Ministers for the rewards," Mary said from London over phone today.

"My priority is to restructure and streamline my academy.

If Assam Government provides infrastructural development package for setting up the boxing academy there, we would accept and convert it as a branch unit," Mary said.

Mary was beaten by Nicola Adams of Great Britain in the semi final on Wednesday night, leaving the mother of two for a bronze.

Mary's husband Onler Kom who is also at London said specific steps would be taken up for setting up the academy at the two acres of land provided at Meitei Langol village by the State Government.

Stating that the North East Council had assured of providing the construction cost of the academy, Onler said they will remind the Council of the earlier assurance.

As desired by Mary, the academy would give priority to underprivileged children of the State , he said adding that more employees of the academy like staff and coaches would be appointed once the academy is restructured.

After reaching Imphal, a meeting for revamping the academy would be convened, Onler said adding that they are likely to reach Imphal on August 19.

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