Mark Prince launches Champions' Club on 20th anniversary of son's murder

Former boxer Mark Prince has launched The Champions' Club on the 20th anniversary of his son Kiyan's murder, unveiling a 20-point blueprint aimed at overhauling youth services across the UK.

Kiyan Prince, a promising youth player at Queens Park Rangers, was stabbed to death outside the London Academy in Edgware on May 18, 2006, when he intervened in a fight between schoolmates. The foundation bearing his name now seeks £400,000 in donations to fund a dedicated youth space, per Sky Sports.

Prince calls for prevention over policing in knife crime fight

Prince told Sky Sports the government's approach remains fundamentally flawed. "They're trying to police their way out of it," he said, arguing that schools fail to prepare students for life beyond exams. "You can have exam results but if you've got no purpose, no self-identity and resilience, how you going to get through life and be joyful and happy with yourself."

The 57-year-old has outlined ten specific asks of policymakers, including improved pay and recognition for youth workers, longer-term planning horizons, and stronger roles for community voices in decision-making. Research conducted by the foundation found that 75 percent of 16-to-24-year-olds believe it is hard being young in Britain today.

Prince, who compiled 23 wins with 18 knockouts before injury forced his retirement at 30, says his mission stems from personal transformation. He even attempted to visit his son's killer in prison. "I'm not hurting Hanad by not forgiving him, I'm hurting me," he explained. "I didn't want to be jailed with bitterness and unforgiveness anymore."

The Champions' Club launches as an extension of the foundation's existing work, with Prince calling on corporates and the public to help sponsor young people through development programmes. The charity's assemblies reach students nationwide, focusing on mindset shifts and personal agency for those who have experienced trauma or difficult upbringings.

Source: skysports.com