Brian Hinkley: A Lifetime Dedicated to Boxing

After almost 50 years of incredible service to the sport, Coach Educator Brian Hinkley will be “hanging up his gloves” from his role in coach education. But don’t worry, Brian isn’t going too far! He’ll still be coaching at Chadd ABC and supporting the East Midlands regional team, continuing to share his knowledge and passion for boxing.

Brian first laced up the gloves at just 16 years old. After four years as a boxer, he swapped the ring for the corner and began a coaching journey that would see him inspire generations of coaches and boxers alike. Working his way through the coaching ranks, Brian achieved his A.B.A. Advanced Coach Award (Level IV) back in 1976 and he’s been helping others reach their potential ever since.

Over the decades, Brian has made a huge impact on the sport at every level. He’s served two terms as Midland Counties Regional Coach, later becoming East Midlands Regional Coach for ten years after the regional split, where he focused on talent ID, boxer development, and coach education.

Nationally, he’s been a key part of England Boxing’s coaching structure, spending many years as Assistant National Coach Education Officer. From 1976 right through to 2025, Brian has delivered around 200 coaching courses, supporting and inspiring more than 3,000 coaches along the way!

And his influence hasn’t stopped there. Brian has represented England as lead coach for Senior, Junior, and Youth teams at World and European Championships, as well as numerous Multi-Nation Tournaments across Europe. He’s even taken his expertise around the globe, delivering eight International Olympic Committee Coach Education Clinics in Africa, Southeast Asia, and South America – helping to develop boxing talent and coaching standards worldwide.

Speaking on Brian’s amazing journey, Workforce Development Manager, Laura Sargent said: “All of us at England Boxing would like to say a huge thank you to Brian for all his hard work and continued support in educating thousands of coaches across the years with his expanse of knowledge. Although he is taking a step back from coach education, we know he will continue to pass his knowledge on wherever he can. Brian, you are a legend, and we wish you all the best.”

Brian’s passion, experience and commitment have left an incredible legacy in English boxing and there’s no doubt his impact will be felt for years to come.

Thank you, Brian, for everything you’ve given to the sport.