A legacy beyond the ring

Tributes to Paisley boxing legend Norrie Sweeney

- CALAM PENGILLY

The legacy of a famed Paisley boxing coach goes far beyond the ring, his family said just weeks after his passing.

Norman 'Norrie' Sweeney died peacefully surrounded by his loving family at Crosshouse Hospital on February 18, aged 90, after suffering heart failure and symptoms related to diabetes.

Norrie-who once rubbed shoulders with the biggest names in sport - was born in Glen Street, Paisley, on November 10, 1934 and went on to change the lives of not only his most impressive boxers but youngsters from across the town.

It is this memory of Norrie that his family say they hold most dear.

Kay Sweeney, his daughter, told the Express how her dad could bring out the best in some of Scotland's most notorious "hard men". She explained that many of his students became members of the family.

"The bonds that he created through boxing, through that mutual interest, through sport, it transcends generations and they last forever," she said.

"My dad tutored many boxers, and many of them never left his side, some becoming like family.

Danny Quigg who was with my dad since the beginning in his first club called him 'pops' and me his 'little sis.

"This is West of Scotland men, boxing men, not known for their showing of emotion. My dad loved each and every one of them and was so proud of them. I know why, they are an absolute credit to him."

Kay added: "These boys found family they either didn't have or extra family they didn't know they needed. This connection within clubs, sports or whatever and wherever you find it, these connections they transcend generations.