Bradford College

Jack Punches a First for British Boxing

Humble, focused and dedicated, Jack Bateson is taking the boxing world by storm as the first ever AASE Programme Boxer in the country to make it into the Great Britain Development Squad.

Not content with winning Gold at the Commonwealth Youth Championships last year, Jack has set himself the new challenge of aiming for the Commonwealth Games 2014 and Olympic Games 2016.

Commenting on how if felt to become the first ever AASE Programme Boxer in the country to become a member of the GB Development Squad, Jack said: “I’m really pleased because without AASE I wouldn’t be where I am today! About 2 years ago I was going through a bit of a rough patch where I didn’t win any national titles for a year.  In all the other years I’d won on the trot. I came here and I was a bit gutted really as boxing wasn’t my main thing. Then since training with Kevin I’ve been so motivated and dedicated.  The AASE programme has helped me loads and I am just so grateful for the opportunity I’ve been given!”

Jack’s love of boxing began at a young age.  Elaborating further Jack said: “Since I started boxing at the age of 9 I’ve never looked back.  I won my first 12 fights and there was nothing better than winning!  Then I tasted defeat.  I was completely devastated and gutted, but I used the experience to work harder. I got straight back in the gym as I’ve always put boxing first!”

Despite a gruelling 7 day a week training schedule, Jack still finds time to study on his Advanced Apprenticeship in Sporting Excellence (AASE) course at Bradford College; excelling academically as a student of distinction!

With the launch of the National Apprenticeship Week next week, Jack has also been selected to take part in the national campaign and has been invited to meet top officials and Government Ministers at a ceremony in London.

Explaining in more detail about his training schedule, Jack said: “I train 3 times a day.  I get up at half six and train again at College with Kevin and Mally at lunchtime. Then after College I go straight to the gym and do a two hour session. I probably get home about half eight, eat and go to sleep, so it’s just like a ‘training sleep routine’.” Jack smiled and added: “And if I’m lucky my trainer gives me the occasional day off now and then.  So yeah, its been hard, but it’s paying off!” 

Jack continued: “It’s not easy, but if you put your mind to it, a lot can be achieved, especially in such a short space of time.  I’m just grateful that I’ve been given the opportunity!” Jack credits the influence of former Scotland National Team Coach Kevin Smith, Bradford Boxing Development Officer, Paul Porter, Boxing Academy Head Coach, Mally MacIver and Bermontoff Armature Boxing Club for his motivation to succeed, remain focused and achieve his goals.

Jack has been sparring with Charlie Edwards 49 kg on the Great Britain Podium Squad and is confident that his boxing ability is of equal standing.   Elaborating further Jack said:  “I went and sparred with him and there was nothing in it. He’s probably going to be going to the Olympics later this year. I might be one step behind this kid, but I know there is no difference in the level of skill between me and him. Its really given me a confidence boost.”  

Commenting on the elite boxing athlete, Bradford Boxing Development Officer, Paul Porter said: “Jack being taken on by the GB Development Squad comes as no surprise after all his hard work and dedication.  He has developed very quickly and can comfortably hold his own with the likes of Charlie Edwards, looking like a natural in that sort of company!”

Mr Porter continued: “What we’ve seen in him over the last year demonstrates that he is completely comfortable boxing at International level in the European Junior Championships and then going on to win the Commonwealth Junior Gold Medal.  This is not an end point for Jack – this is just the beginning for his top level career. With still half a year left working with Kevin on the AASE Programme I am confident he will continue to go from strength to strength,   becoming a member of the GB Podium Squad and competing at the highest level as a senior boxer!”

With an impressive list of victories under his belt, Jack looks set to go to the Olympics and represent Britain in the 2016 games – watch this space for Britain’s fresh, focused and inspiring new boxing talent!   

• Jack Bateson - Gallery of Photographs