Welcome back to another exciting episode of our podcast as we celebrate coaches who have made a significant impact in the world of amateur boxing. In this episode, we continue to explore the incredible stories of influential coaches who’ve inspired both aspiring and seasoned boxers. You’ll hear from Kevin Brownlow, Craig Turner, Dave Hardy, Emmanuel Izon-Eritei, Donna Torrance and Ben Harmsworth.
Celebrating Coaches: The Unsung Backbone of Boxing
Why Taking Time to Reflect Matters
In boxing, it’s easy to focus on the fighters. The medals. The wins. But behind every boxer is someone in their corner—often literally—guiding, shaping, and inspiring.
Great coaches don’t just teach punches. They build people. And sometimes the best way to recognise the impact you’re having as a coach is to pause and remember the people who once did the same for you.
Remember Who Helped You Get Here
In our Celebrating Coaches series, coaches from across the country share stories about those who had shaped them. Mentors who gave up their time. Coaches who inspired through patience, belief, and strength. Whether they are old-school trainers who kept things simple and effective, or coaches exploring newer approaches to support their boxers, it is clear that what people remember is more than just the technical expertise of their coaches.
They reminded us that the people who leave a mark are rarely the ones shouting the loudest. They’re the ones who quietly keep showing up, who believe in you even when you’re struggling, and who lead with heart and consistency.
Lessons That Stick
A few clear themes came through:
- Keep It Simple: The best coaches don’t overcomplicate things. Basics, discipline, and consistency matter more than gimmicks.
- Believe in Your Boxers: Many guests talked about how knowing their coach believed in them gave them that extra edge in the ring.
- Lead by Example: Coaches shape clubs through who they are, not just what they say. The best coaches lead with their actions—firm but fair, always there when needed.
- Community Matters: Coaching is more than making champions—it’s about offering young people structure, support, and a place to belong.
The Hard Days
Coaching isn’t always easy. There are late nights, missed family dinners, results that don’t go your way. But hearing these stories is a reminder: the impact of coaching often goes way beyond the gym. Most of it won’t show up in win columns—but it will show up in the lives you’ve helped change.
Final Word
So whether you’ve been in the game for years or you’re just starting out, take a moment to reflect. Who helped you? Who believed in you when you needed it most?
And just as importantly—who are you doing that for now?
Want to hear more? Listen to the Celebrating Coaches: Part 1 and Part 3 to hear more coaches pay tribute to the legends who helped shape their journey.
Let’s keep paying it forward.