The JMS Boxing Podcast · The JMS Boxing Podcast

Lewis Southgate – My Journey in the amateur’s

·42 min·4 clips

Lewis Southgate was turned away at age nine by a coach who said to come back when he was ten.

This episode features amateur boxer Lewis Southgate recounting his early journey in the sport to the host. Southgate details his unexpected and prolonged amateur career that began in childhood. The conversation focuses on his initial reluctance, his first coach, and the pivotal experiences that solidified his commitment. Southgate's father took him to St Mary's Boxing Club in Chatham when he was nine years old. Coach Dave Bowler turned him away at the door, telling him to return at age ten. Southgate was initially happy to avoid boxing and focused on football instead. His father took him back on his tenth birthday, which coincided with a training night, and Bowler allowed him in. Southgate then spent 11 years at that club, starting with a single introductory session. He recalls the intense physical ache in his arms and legs after that first training session. The next day in primary school, he told his classmates and teachers about starting boxing. A surprising moment is that Southgate's entire boxing career nearly didn't happen due to a strict age policy at the club door. His immediate physical reaction to the first session left a strong, memorable impression on him as a child. He found it notable that his teachers did not believe him when he shared the news, due to his small size. The story highlights how a simple birthday coincidence facilitated his entry into the sport. The narrative underscores how an initial lack of interest can transform into a decade-long dedication. The tone is conversational and reflective, driven by a personal narrative. The style is informal, using colloquial language like "geezer" to describe his coach. This episode would appeal to listeners interested in grassroots sports origins and personal athletic origin stories. Those seeking technical boxing analysis or professional fight breakdowns might find it less relevant.

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