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13/02/2008
From Boxing Awards to his first win
Eleven-year-old Jack Featherstone took the ABAE Boxing Awards at Westfield Junior School nearly two years ago, when he was aged just nine.
And if ever proof was needed that the awards can get children interested enough in the sport to take it up, young Jack is it.
When he was in the Preliminary stage of the Boxing Awards, Advanced Coach Q Shillingford, who now teaches the Boxing Tutor course, noticed a spark of real talent in Jack:
"I mentioned to his parents what a lot of natural talent he had and suggested that she take him along to a local boxing gym."
Jack continued with the other levels of awards, and after picking up the basics in a fun, recreational way, he was able to approach his local club - Stacey ABC - with added confidence.
His dad, Brian Featherstone, who had boxed as a child, rediscovered his affinity for the sport and started helping out at the club while his son trained. He also took the ABAE Boxing Tutor course himself.
Now, two years later, Brian has advanced to Full ABAE Boxing Coach status. Even more excitingly, Jack has competed and won his first bout.
At Dagenham Police and Community ABC presentation night on Saturday 9th February, Jack weighed in at just under 36kg against Charlie Woodham of Rustall ABC. After a thrilling three rounds, Jack won by a majority decision.
If you would like to train to become a boxing tutor and deliver the awards to children like Jack, visit the Education and Training section of the ABAE website here.
A triumphant Jack after his first bout
Jack and Dad Brian, who is now a qualified coach