Cooper O’Connell: From tough Sparring in Warrington to World Champion

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In the heart of Warrington, England, two years ago, a young boxer named Cooper O’Connell sparred in a chilly gymnasium, the freezing air around him auguring the start of something significant in his life. This would be his first spar after a long lay-off, and he was eager to prove himself. Sparring with a local kid, Cooper displayed flashes of brilliance for the first two rounds, using his speed and technique to dominate. However fatigue set in, and he struggled through the last two rounds, a feeling that would become a pivotal moment in his journey.That day Cooper recognized the urgency for change. He needed to take his boxing career seriously. No longer just a sport for him, boxing had become his passion, his calling. He trained harder than ever, fueled by dreams of greatness.Fast forward to twelve months ago, Cooper faced another hurdle. A shoulder reconstruction sidelined him for three months, threatening to derail his aspirations just when the Queensland Titles—the first step towards the coveted World Championships—loomed on the horizon. A lesser athlete might have rested and waited for full recovery, but not Cooper. Only two months into rehabilitation, he made the brave decision to step into the ring. Unfortunately, he lost that fight but used it as a stepping stone rather than a setback.Determined to make an impact, Cooper bounced back, clinching two victories that secured his place on the Queensland B team to compete at the Australian Titles. It was a remarkable turnaround that spoke volumes of his grit and resolve. In a stunning display of skill and determination, Cooper emerged victorious, claiming the Australian title. This win set him on a path to international exposure, leading him to Germany for three crucial fights, where he would gain valuable experience against elite contenders.Throughout this challenging yet rewarding period, Coach Gareth Williams played a pivotal role, focusing his mindset on a singular goal: winning gold at the World Championships. “All we spoke about was winning gold,” Gareth would often remind him, even after losses that could have dampened Cooper’s spirit. The belief in Cooper never wavered, and neither did his commitment to his training regimen. 2024 Olympic coach ,Shara Romer had “The kid” pushing hard on his weights,assault bike and runs for his conditioning while Williams continued with the development of his boxing.

Support came not just from his coaches but also from his mother, Shotgun Shannon O’Connell. There was never a moment when she wasn’t by his side, cheering him on and providing the emotional anchor he needed. When Shannon made the brave decision to step back from coaching her son a few years ago, it was a testament to her belief in his ability to stand on his own two feet, even if it meant relinquishing direct control. Such sacrifices allowed Cooper to flourish, and they highlight the unwavering bond between them.Today, Cooper O’Connell holds the title of the best 65kg U19 fighter in the world. His journey from the cold sparring session in Warrington to the pinnacle of boxing showcases the essence of perseverance. It’s a story filled with setbacks, hard-fought victories, and the relentless pursuit of a dream. Through every setback, every doubt, and every ounce of sweat shed in the gym, Cooper has embodied what it means to fight—not just in the ring, but in life. As he stands tall with the gold medal around his neck, it’s clear that this is just the beginning for Cooper O’Connell. The world now knows his name, and the boxing universe eagerly awaits where this journey will take him next.

Australian Boxer Cooper O’Connell Set for Gold at World U19 Championships

by Brisbane Boxing ClassesCoachesNewsProfessional BoxersSportUncategorized

In an exciting turn of events, Australian boxer Cooper O’Connell has made it to the finals of the World U19 Boxing Championships taking place in Colorado this week. The promising young athlete is set to compete in the gold medal match on Sunday (Australian time), a testament to his hard work and dedication over the past few years.Cooper is under the expert guidance of coach Gareth Williams at The Boxing Shop in Brisbane. Over the last two years, he has demonstrated remarkable growth, both in his skills and his mindset. “We have spoken for a few months about winning the gold medal, and now it’s within touching distance,” Williams said, reflecting on the journey that has led them to this pivotal moment.In preparation for this prestigious event, Cooper has engaged in sparring sessions with some of the best in the sport, including Olympians Shannan Davey and Olympic Bronze Medalist Charlie Senior. This high-level training has equipped him with the experience and confidence necessary to excel on the world stage. His preparation has been nothing short of exemplary, allowing him to hone his abilities against top-quality professionals leading up to the championship.This year has not been without its challenges for Cooper. Earlier in the year, he faced a significant setback when he had to recover from a shoulder reconstruction. After losing his fight at the Queensland titles, he showed immense resilience, bouncing back with rapid improvements that have led him to this gold medal opportunity. Now, Cooper stands on the brink of becoming the world number one boxer in the 65kg division for under 19s.The community surrounding Cooper has rallied behind him, with immense support from sponsors and fans who helped him raise the funds necessary for this journey. Their belief in his talent and potential has played a crucial role in enabling him to compete at such a high level.As Cooper prepares to step into the ring for the final, the entire Australian boxing community is filled with pride and anticipation. Regardless of the outcome, his journey serves as an inspiration, demonstrating what can be achieved with hard work, determination, and support. We wish Cooper O’Connell the best of luck in his pursuit of gold in Colorado!

Boxing Beyond Barriers: A Pathway to Reducing Youth Crime Through Empowerment and Life Skills

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The Essence of Boxing Beyond Barriers

In an era where youth crime remains a significant concern, innovative programs targeting the underlying issues are vital. One such initiative making waves in Brisbane is the “Boxing Beyond Barriers” program, spearheaded by professional coach and business owner Gareth Williams. Established in 2011, this school-based program has impacted over 20,000 students and has proven instrumental in aiding young individuals develop essential life skills, self-belief, and better decision-making abilities.

At its core, Boxing Beyond Barriers is much more than just a boxing program. It is a holistic approach to youth development that integrates physical training with crucial life lessons. By engaging young participants in various aspects of boxing, the program fosters discipline, resilience, and teamwork—all while reinforcing the importance of making positive life choices.Gareth Williams frequently emphasizes a powerful saying: “If you drop your hands, you get hit; well, life is exactly the same.” This analogy encapsulates the program’s philosophy, teaching young people that neglecting their responsibilities or failing to make proactive choices can lead to unfavorable consequences. In the boxing ring, as in life, awareness and readiness are essential for success and safety.

Building Self-Belief and Confidence

A pivotal element of the Boxing Beyond Barriers program is its ability to instill self-belief in participants. Many young individuals face various socio-economic challenges and may struggle with self-esteem and feelings of worthlessness. Through rigorous training and positive reinforcement, the program helps participants realize their potential. As they see improvements in their physical abilities and confidence levels, they begin to understand that they are capable of overcoming obstacles both inside and outside the ring.The emphasis on self-belief is crucial in combating youth crime. When young people feel empowered and confident in their capabilities, they are less likely to engage in negative behaviors that could lead to criminal activity. They learn to value themselves and their futures, creating a sense of hope and purpose that can redirect their energy into positive pursuits.

Real-Life Lessons

Through SportBoxing Beyond Barriers integrates real-life lessons into its training sessions. Participants learn the importance of commitment, respect, and responsibility—values that are essential for personal development and citizenship. The program encourages open discussions about the challenges young people may face, including peer pressure, gang affiliation, and substance abuse. By addressing these issues directly within the supportive environment of the program, participants can develop the skills to navigate complex social dynamics.Mentorship plays a significant role in the program. With Gareth Williams and other coaches serving as role models, participants receive guidance from individuals who have successfully navigated their own challenges. These relationships can be pivotal in helping young people understand the long-term implications of their choices and actions.

Impact on Youth Crime Rates

By providing an avenue for self-expression, positive reinforcement, and life skills development, Boxing Beyond Barriers has the potential to reduce youth crime rates significantly. As participants engage in productive activities, they are less likely to find themselves involved in criminal activities. Additionally, the program creates a sense of community and belonging, which can further deter young individuals from associating with negative influences.In schools where Boxing Beyond Barriers is implemented, educators report a decline in behavioral issues and an overall improvement in students’ attitudes towards learning and personal development. By steering young individuals away from crime and towards community involvement, the program makes strides in fostering safer environments for all.

Conclusion

As we seek effective solutions to reduce youth crime, programs like Boxing Beyond Barriers highlight the importance of empowering young people through skill development and life lessons. Gareth Williams’ program serves as a beacon of hope for many, demonstrating that with the right guidance and support, young individuals can overcome adversities, build better futures, and make constructive choices.Through boxing, mentoring, and real-life teachings, the program is not only boxing’s young participants into skilled athletes but also preparing them to face the world with resilience and determination. In a society that faces ongoing challenges, Boxing Beyond Barriers offers a promising pathway for youth to thrive and cultivate a positive sense of identity—making a lasting impact on their lives and communities.

A low calorie meal before your morning session ?

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A great low-calorie pre-training meal for an athlete looking to lose weight should include a balance of carbohydrates for energy and protein.

Low-Calorie Pre-Training Meal: Greek Yogurt with Berries and Almonds

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup non-fat Greek yogurt (approximately 100 calories)
  • ½ cup mixed berries (blueberries, strawberries, or raspberries) (approximately 40-50 calories)
  • 1 tablespoon slivered almonds (approximately 30 calories)
  • A dash of cinnamon or a drizzle of honey (optional for flavor, but be mindful of additional calories)

Total Calories: Approximately 170-180 calories

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, combine the Greek yogurt and mixed berries.
  2. Sprinkle the slivered almonds on top.
  3. If desired, add a dash of cinnamon or a small drizzle of honey for added flavor.

Benefits:

  • Greek Yogurt: High in protein, which helps with muscle recovery and satiety.
  • Berries: Provide antioxidants, vitamins, and a small amount of carbohydrates for quick energy.
  • Almonds: Add healthy fats and a bit of crunch, while keeping the meal low in calories.

This meal provides a satisfying balance of nutrients, making it ideal for fueling your workout without adding excess calories. Enjoy it about 30-60 minutes before your training for optimal results!

Gareth Class Mentor

The 5 Fundamentals of Resilience for Young People

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Over the years I’ve seen how boxing contributes enormously to the development of resilience in our young men and women. Whether it be in the gym, school programs or amateur competition fights… these 5 fundamental principals hold true no matter the setting.

1. PHYSICAL CHALLENGES: When our young people undergo rigorous physical workouts, such as cardiovascular exercises or strength training, only do they realise the importance of having perseverance, endurance, and mental toughness.

2. MENTAL STRENGTH: Being focused in having the mental discipline to think strategically under pressure helps young people develop quick decision making as well as overcoming psychological hurdles such as fear or self-doubt. So many young people face the aforementioned mental hurdles and sadly many never quite overcome them in life. Going into the deep end of something new for a first timer is no easy feat. However we will never grow if we remain in our comfort bubbles. Just getting young people to spar or box is a massive confidence booster in ‘learning to fly’. Over the years I’ve seen many shy kids undergo enormous confidence boosts once they dive deep into the art of boxing.

3. LEARNING FROM SETBACKS: Boxing is just like life… meaning we encounter setbacks and failures. The key is we should follow the conventional wisdom in picking ourselves up and learning from a difficult experience. My comp squad boxers (both kids and adults) have lost boxing matches despite giving their best effort. Many young kids at the gym attempt to learn a specific boxing technique but often don’t quite get the execution. However I let them know to evaluate any setbacks so they can channel them into growth opportunities. Carrying this resilient mindset helps in all aspects of life.

4. ADAPTABILITY: Everyone who does partner training drills has a different flavour in their technique and methods. The diversity of us as humans means we have to accept our differences and work together. Rather then ‘My way is the highway’, The Boxing Shop follows the teamwork approach of working together to achieve the common goal.

5. COMMUNITY: Boxing often involves working with trainers and being a part of a team or community. Unfortunately we hear about the high rates of loneliness within our society, ranging from bullied kids shunning themselves away to young people in their 20s losing connection with old friends. When starting The Boxing Shop I wanted to build a supportive network for all gym goers to be in a friendly space and I motivate them into becoming a better boxer and person. In the Boxing Beyond Barriers program, my staff and I provide troubled youth with a safe space to seek support, learn from others’ experiences, and become good fit boxers in their own right. Having a safe and controlled environment, with proper supervision and guidance from experienced trainers to essential in boxing training.

If we utilise these 5 principals for our youths they will become confident and resilient members of society.

Gareth Williams

Boxing Beyond Barriers: Instilling Discipline, Structure, and Self-Belief in Disengaged Youth

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Gareth winning the Westfield Local Heroes prize money for his hard work

In today’s modern society, many young individuals face challenges that can lead to disengagement, lack of discipline, and a negative mindset. Recognizing this issue, professional boxing trainer and entrepreneur Gareth Williams has initiated an innovative program called Boxing Beyond Barriers. This program aims to empower and transform the lives of disengaged youths aged between 10 and 15 years through the powerful discipline of boxing. By combining physical training with mental strengthening, Boxing Beyond Barriers seeks to instill discipline, structure, self-belief, and a positive mindset in these young individuals.

Discipline and Structure

One of the most significant benefits of boxing is the discipline it requires. This program believes that by introducing disciplined routines, young individuals can develop a strong work ethic and self-control. The structured training sessions at Boxing Beyond Barriers teach students the importance of commitment, consistency, and perseverance. Through training drills, shadow boxing, bag work, and sparring, participants gradually improve their focus, patience, and overall discipline. These acquired skills can significantly impact other areas of their lives, such as academics, relationships, and personal development.

Self-Belief and Positive Mindset

One of the overarching goals of Boxing Beyond Barriers is to foster self-belief and a positive mindset among participants. Gareth Williams understands the transformative power of confidence and belief in oneself. Through consistent training and personal guidance, youth are encouraged to push beyond their comfort zones and achieve goals they previously thought were unattainable. As they see improvements in their skills, physical fitness, and mental toughness, their confidence and self-belief soar. This newfound belief in themselves transcends the boxing ring, leading to positive changes in all aspects of their lives, including academic performance, social interactions, and personal growth.

Mental Strengthening

The mental aspect of boxing is equally as important as the physical training. Gareth Williams recognizes that by cultivating mental resilience, students can overcome challenges, setbacks, and self-doubt. At Boxing Beyond Barriers, participants learn to embrace adversity and develop a strong mindset that enables them to persevere through difficult times. Through mentorship and positive reinforcement, students are provided with the tools to channel their negative emotions and thoughts into something constructive, fostering personal growth and resilience.

Community and Support

Boxing Beyond Barriers not only focuses on individual growth but also fosters a sense of community and support among the participants. The program emphasizes the importance of teamwork, respect, and positive relationships. By training alongside their peers, students learn to support and encourage one another, fostering a supportive and inclusive environment. This sense of belonging and camaraderie instills a desire to lift each other up and creates a strong support system that extends beyond the boxing gym.

Future

The Boxing Beyond Barriers program, initiated by Gareth Williams, offers disengaged youth between the ages of 10 and 15 an opportunity for personal transformation through the discipline of boxing. By instilling discipline, structure, self-belief, and a positive mindset, participants are empowered to overcome challenges, achieve personal growth, and make positive changes in their lives. Boxing Beyond Barriers provides a platform for these young individuals to reclaim their potential, build resilience, and thrive in various aspects of their lives. With the guidance and mentorship of professionals like Gareth Williams, boxing becomes a vehicle for personal development, self-discovery, and a brighter future.

“Your 8 year old isn’t becoming a world champion”

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By Gareth Williams

Should kids under 12 years old be dedicated to one sport?
My answer to this question is no.
Children need lots of different activities to improve their athleticism,general knowledge and also their boundaries.
Ive seen it happen many times over the years,”my boy is going to captain Australia” and the kid is 8 years old ,or “He’s going to become the world boxing champion” as the father speaks of his 11 year old boy.Unfortunately the real answer to this is “No he isn’t”.Sure some kids do make it to the top of their sport by parents who choose only one sport only but the majority of successful athletes come from kids who love general sports before making their own decisions as to which sport to major in as they become older.
Let them try gymnastics or dance,let them try football,netball as well as martial arts and help them become an all round athlete with different skills and abilities that can be learned from a number of activities.
Many kids that I’ve come across over my years of coaching (which started as a 15 yr old Gymnastics coach under former Australian Olympian Val Norris),that specialised in one sport have retired early and never reached their peak as an athlete and the main reason was ,the kids were bored of doing the same thing day in day out.
As far as young children go,I believe the aim has to be based at fun with activities that improve agility,balance and coordination rather than being specific in only one area.
As Parents or coaches of 8 year old’s, we don’t need to be thinking we have the future Clive Churchill medallist on the footy field,I read in Brad Fittler’s autobiography that in his first year of Rugby League he was picking daises out of the grass rather than following the ball around. With no pressure to do any different he ended up becoming one of Australia’s best ever Rugby league players.
Yes your kid may have ability in one area but 9 times out of 10 if he or she is only made to do one sport in early childhood the percentage of achieving greatness in that area is very low.
My advise would be to get the kids active and healthy from a young age trying many different things,where they can improve general overall coordination,strength,skills,confidence and Ariel awareness.
To this day all kids between 12 and 17 at TBS only train a maximum of 3 days per week which can enable them to improve in other areas of their lives.One of my Professionals and also Australian amateur 81 kg Champion,Jack Bowen,was playing Afl and Cricket until grade 12 as well as boxing.Jack lost state titles as a youngster and had limited success but as his coordination and skills developed through many different sports he has now become one of Australia’s premier professional prospects and he chose to walk away from the Olympic route when he had beaten every light heavyweight in the country in 2019 as a 23 year old.
The time will come where eventually the children will have to choose which sport to dedicate themselves to so in the early years,just let them enjoy learning and improving in different sports.



Restrictions eased May 15

Bootcamps of 10 from this Saturday

by Brisbane Boxing ClassesCoachesNewsSportUncategorized

Firstly id like to thank all our amazing members and friends for their ongoing support during this tough time for everyone.
As you have probably heard the government have eased restrictions opening up some outdoor bootcamp opportunities.
Bootcamps for 10 people are allowed !
We have created a few safety measures for everyone to follow so we can all get back to “Normal” as son as possible.

Outdoor Training expectations with social distancing as Saturday 16/5/2020 – until further notice

  1. Bookings essential (All members have been emailed a booking opportunity, please do not turn up to training unless a prior booking has been made) .Members Booking link here   (Non members can join here   )  .       
  2. All members are required to take a shower before training
  3. Individual training bags to be left in the car.
  4. Hands to be wrapped in the car or prior to training. Bring Boxing gloves only to the bootcamp area.
  5. Hand sanitizer is available at the front desk
  6. Please Keep 1.5m apart from everyone at all times during the class.
  7. Once the class is complete please wipe down equipment and move to your car immediately so the next group can enjoy the bootcamp experience.

Thank you to all our loyal friends and members for supporting The Boxing Shop  through this tough time. By following the correct procedures we hope to be back inside the gym soon.

Gareth and Shara


https://www.covid19.qld.gov.au/government-actions/roadmap-to-easing-queenslands-restrictions

RECAP – A NIGHT TO REMEMBER IV

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The long awaited ‘A Night to Remember IV’ is now in the past with the Boxing Shop taking home 3 wins and 1 draw.  

Saturday the 22nd of February is a date that our professional boxers wont be putting behind them anytime soon. Held at the Sleeman Sports complex, these fights were all certainly giving the crowd value for money. We had a total of 6 fights with 6, 3 minute explosive rounds each.

First off the rank was Lachlan Underwood. He striked up a win defeating Freddy Marai of Papua New Guinea the 5th round when his corner threw in the towel.

Up next was a tremendous battle between Luke Travers and James Langridge and the judges couldnt separate them ,resulting in a draw.

Once again the Fight of the night involved Michael Black. Michael fough
Victor Odindo in a see sawing contest, both putting up a non stop battle,resulting in a draw over 6 rounds.

Sam Beck from the Gold Coast also made a successful professional debut,  boxing beautifully to outpoint Jon Ake over the 6 round distance.

56 seconds into the first round and the Boxing Beauty Taylah Robertston was in a hurry taking out Ranee Klinratree with a demolition on debut. Taylah was determined to perform and she certainly did.The former Commonwealth games bronze medalist is destined for a big future and you cant get better than a first round KO to kick off with.

The Main fight of the night was Jack Bowen. Jack fought Matt Hackett ina scheduled 6 rounder .Jack had a great round 2 and turned up the acton again in round 4 to stop Hackett on his feet.  

We would like to congratulate all of the amazing boxers for their great fights and determination. A massive thank you to each and every individual who came along and supported our amazing boxers. A massive thank you to our sponsors 5AM Run Apparel, Apex Financial Advice, Body Analysis Australia and Dig Deep, Without you, events like this wouldn’t be possible.  

Check out the below links of our amazing sponsors;
5amrunapparel for all your running apparel https://www.facebook.com/pg/5amrunapparel/posts/
Apex Financial Advice for outstanding financial advice
https://apexfsg.com.au/
Body Analysis Australia for body composition scans
http://bodyanalysisaustralia.com.au/

RE-Watch the night with the below link 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UNTTZRPcmHk&list=PL0O9MupJ4YWH-vYxZ5hjixZuk_Mnqej4A

A NIGHT TO REMEMBER IV

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Combat Sports at its exciting best.

A Night to Remember IV is the event that announces local  and former Australian champions on the world stage of Professional Boxing.

Australian Amateur Sensation,Jack Bowen will head line the event at the sleeman centre on February 22 with Commonwealth Games Bronze medalist and female super star Taylah Robertson also debuting as the chief support bout.

Michael Black,Samuel Beck,Lachlan Underwood and Luke Travers will all star on this prestigious event in Brisbane.

“The event is going to be fun and entertaining”,said Promoter,Gareth Williams,”we have hip hop dancers,lots of singing and fun music as well as 7 exciting fights that will keep everyone entertained”

For all tickets

click the link below to reserve your seats

https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/a-night-to-remember-iv-tickets-89537022645