Women’s Coach Development Programme Spotlight: Emily Aked

Emily Aked feels she’ll always owe a small debt to the sport of boxing, however, the Sanctus ABC coach has already begun to repay it by providing a safe space for women to take part in a sport they love.

How did you first get involved in boxing?

My husband boxed amateurs when he was younger, and I tagged along a few times. After I had my daughter, I wanted to get back in shape, so I joined in for the fitness and atmosphere to begin with.

After I lost a parent, I needed an outlet to get through that period in my life. I put everything into the sport, quite literally blood sweat, and tears. The gym environment over the years has been a pillar for my mental health. Boxing, coaching – I always feel at home in my gym.

I’m not there as a coach just yet, and I know I have factors I can improve and develop. I only boxed amateurs in 2023 after I managed to lose 10kg and get fit enough to perform in the ring. Boxing creates resilience inside you and it has got me through a lot of dark times whilst providing me with the life skills needed for daily challenges. I’ll forever hold a debt to the sport.

How pleased are you to be involved in a programme that is actively bidding to push women’s and girls’ boxing forward?

I’m ecstatic! The programme has been great so far and I’ve loved having the support around me, both in-person and from a distance. It’s been amazing to be able to attend workshops and programmes with a group of like-minded individuals.

What do you hope to get out of the Women’s Coach Development Programme that can improve you as a coach?

I want to improve my self-belief and develop a better coaching eye and techniques. I think this programme will help me to grow from a boxer to a coach.

How much will attending the Women’s Coach Development Programme help you in your club environment?

I think it already has. I have a girl’s class that typically had three or four showing up, but now I have a group of 10 girls. They all have a safe place to take part in the sport they love, along with the best support around them from me and one another.

Who are your biggest boxing inspirations?

I’m inspired by boxers Lauren Price, Jack Catterall and Tony Bellew. I also like Ben Davison as a coach.