PROMISING 12-YEAR-old junior boxer Jett Clifford has had his first taste of national-level boxing and his coach couldn’t be prouder.
Jett won a silver medal at the Australian titles on July 8, and although he didn’t come away with the top prize, his coach said it was close and entertaining, with Jett showing plenty of spirit.
“Bitter pill to swallow but Jett showed he belongs at that level in this fight,” Steve posted on Facebook.
“I couldn’t be prouder of this silent little achiever who has been with me since he was 6 years of age when he started in the Pee Wee Program.”
Jett was playing football before joining Hinterland Boxing’s Pee Wee Program.
He fought and won a state title at 28kg last year and went up to 34kg for the Australian titles.
Steve said the experience from fighting at such a high level placed him in a great position for the future, but it was Jett’s own attitude that could take him further.
“He’s the most dedicated amateur I’ve got in the gym,” he said.
“He’s a quiet kid and boxing has brought out a good little personality in him and has made him more competitive and more confidence within himself and has given him that more competitive edge.
“I think that’s something that is the biggest skill set that boxing provides these kids, and he’s a classic example of that.”