THE COACH
"My first public boxing exhibition was at the age of 12 years old at Chesterfield fire station (1985). This was when I fell in love with the sport of boxing. As a Schoolboy Amateur I boxed for SAPA Boxing Club in Tibshelf under the strict coaching of the great old coach Royce Wharmby who's no nonsense approach to the sport and life I carry with me to this day. When Royce (now sadly deceased) decided to try his hand in the professional side of the sport I boxed briefly for Radford Boys in Nottingham, although on reaching 18 years I decided to turn pro to continue working under Royce's guidance.
This wasn't my smartest move as I lost 5 of my first 6 contests (all on dodgy points decisions) and which is why I think a lengthy senior Amatuer career is essential. That said over the following years I became a half decent pro losing only twice in my last 12 fights.
Over these 24 years I have trained with and sparred with World and British champions and every fighter of note from this area (and held my own). In this time I have learned much and endeavour to pass on this knowledge to members of the Academy."
