Community Boxing Apprentices spotlight: Gareth Asamoah-Phillips

The apprenticeships have been created to harness the excitement and interest in the sport generated by the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games – and provide a lasting legacy. Gareth Asamoah-Phillips is excited to take the hope that boxing provides into deprived communities.

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What is your name and age? 

My name is Gareth Asamoah-Phillips, and I am 20 years old.

Are you part of a club already and if so in what capacity? 

I am registered with Rathbone ABC as an amateur boxer. I am also a coach/volunteer at both Rathbone and Hawley Amateur Boxing Club.

How did you first get into boxing? 

I initially tried boxing at the age of 14 but it wasn’t until 17 that I started up properly. At the time, I went to a college which held a boxing academy and my coach there, Douggie, developed me and put me on a pathway. It helped me make connections and after two years of development, the link was made with Rathbone ABC. I first got some work experience at Rathbone, which I furthered with work for Hawley, and I have been working with both for over a year now.

What has been your favourite experience in boxing so far? 

I don’t feel as though I have one yet as I’m still going through the process. I do really enjoy the progression I make as well as seeing the progress in the people I train.

How excited are you to be working to help your local boxing community and what are you looking forward to the most? 

I’m happy to be bringing boxing, which can provide hope, to communities that may be deprived. I’m also looking forward to the potential events that will be made in the future.

What do you hope to get out of your apprenticeship? 

I hope to make this apprenticeship a significant milestone on my road to becoming a professional boxing coach.