Women’s Officials Development Programme spotlight: Claire Purvis (Phil Thomas)

Claire Purvis is a former amateur boxer-turned-official and is hoping the development programme can help improve her confidence, as she works toward becoming graded for international events.

xxxxx

How did you first get involved with boxing and become an official?

I started boxing after a white-collar event. I found that I really enjoyed it and that led to me joining an amateur club. From there I had seven bouts but nerves always took over and I never performed as well as I’d have liked in the ring. The club I was at needed an official following the sad passing of the individual in the role at the time. The head coach asked if I’d like the role and I accepted.

What do you hope to get out of the WODP that can improve you as an official?

I’d like to improve my confidence in the ring as a referee and gain more knowledge from other officials around me.

What do you enjoy the most in your officiating role(s)?

I really enjoy judging and as a newly qualified referee I’m really beginning to enjoy that role, but I’d like to become more confident in the ring first.

Who are your biggest boxing inspiration?

I admire many of the female officials who are higher grades, especially the female referees as I’d not seen any in the region until I saw Abi Lang this year.

What is your aspiration in boxing?

My aspiration is to progress to higher grades as both a referee and judge so that I’m able to officiate championships and eventually international events.