By Ron Lane
It was 2pm on a Saturday before Christmas and as members of the Cooroy Impact Amateur Boxing Academy gathered at the clubhouse grounds it was indeed very obvious that on this occasion the gloves were definitely off.
As all members, fighters, parents and supporters arrived they were greeted by owner/coach Mark Evans and wife Mel.
The reason for the gathering was twofold – the first being to celebrate the Christmas festivities and second to celebrate what can only be described as one of the most successful years of boxing in the history of this club, a club that is now acknowledged as one of the finest in the country.
Nestled among the trees some 60 metres from the entrance at 81 Blueberry Drive, Black Mountain, it is a perfect setting.
There is a small gym at the back of the family home, a swimming pool and barbecue area out front, creating what can only be described as a family atmosphere, and with members ageing from six years to the late twenties it made one aware that here is indeed a boxing club with a big future.
In his welcome, coach Evans thanked all who have helped make the club the success that it is today.
“Without all of you it would not be possible,” he said.
During the year members have contested some 147 bouts with 18 being at international level.
Not only have members of this boxing team won state and national titles but some also had the honour of representing their country in overseas tournaments in countries such as Ireland, England, India, Europe and the Bahamas.
Three of the year’s major achievements would have to be coach Mark Evans appointment as Australia’s assistant coach to the Woman’s Youth World Championships in India, Taylah Robinson selection in the Australian team for the upcoming Commonwealth Games and Ella Boot winning the gold medal at the Youth Commonwealth Games in the Bahamas and her bronze medal at the Youth World Championships; a medal that now has her rated three in the world.
Regarding club awards Bryce Hegarty received the coveted Cory Whitmore, Alex Slade Memorial Trophy, Male Fighter of the Year Tyler Blizzard, Female of the Year Ella Boot and most active Luke Martin with 23 fights. Perhaps some of the most pleasing were the encouragement awards that went to the little people, the six and seven year olds whose attendance at training nights sees them learn to mix with mates and above all under tight supervision, enjoy the sport.
At the end of the evening the boxing squad made a presentation to Mark and Mel in appreciation of their work and dedication, a fitting and well deserved gesture.
