Sport
25 August, 2025
Boxers get a special visit
A LOCAL boxing club had a special training session recently when former NRL star Justin Hodges and the head of the top boxing gym in the state visited.
The Mareeba Amateur Boxing Club was visited by Hodges as part of the First Nations Sport and Recreation Program, which encourages the increased participation in sport and physical activity.
They were also visited by the founder and owner of the Fortitude Boxing Gym Steve Deller. The Brisbane gym is one of the top boxing precincts in the state.
Head coach Brian Cater said that the program, and being visited by people like Hodges and Deller, was a good way to encourage kids who live in Far North Queensland to participate in sport.
“It’s good, because the disadvantage to travel hurts any kid in sport, especially boxing,” he said.
“All the titles and all the big events are all down south. Financially and logistically, it’s very hard for kids to get down there.
“So, if this can help us financially a little bit or give us pathways to grants, it’ll help these boys here.”
The boys who attended the training session learned valuable tips and tricks from Deller and some inspiration from Hodges.
