http://www.nisnews.nl/public/101006_1.htm
"Youngsters committing crimes in The Hague will receive boxing lessons instead of a sentence. The project consists of boxing and behavioural training at a sports school in The Hague. 'In the boxing ring, the youngsters learn to keep to the rules, so they can be both 'cool' and social,' according to Dekker's spokesman. The project was set up by the municipality in partnership with the Salvation Army, the Child Protection Council and the justice ministry. The boxing lessons, totalling 40 hours, will serve as an alternative to a prison or community service sentence. The combination of physical activity and learning rules works well, according to the city council spokesman. 'The youngsters enjoy themselves, but also get rules of the game with which they can do something outside the ring. They learn how to solve situations sensibly and not to play the judge themselves.'
The aim of the project is to prevent recidivism. During the boxing lessons, professional behavioural trainers will be present, to support the youngsters where necessary. Sixteen youngsters will start their 'sentence' today." [Brief]
