Started June 2016-2022 (9yrs-15yrs old)
“For me Boxing was never about throwing punches – it was about character, discipline and living by values that shape who we become” Dayton, 17
How did being part of the gym impact you—mentally, physically, or emotionally?
Being apart of the gym was one of the best decisions of my life it impacted me in so many ways.
Mentally, it gave confidence, discipline and motivation to meet and talk to new people. It gave me the discipline to control my self when I’m angry or someone disrespects someone I love or myself and to keep my self out of trouble and keep a good head space all the time, the motivation I gained from being at the gym was the best part not only was it good to turn up everyday with a smile on my face and being able to hang out with friends doing something I loved it also helped me outside the gym with school, projects and friends/family. Physically it helped me do so many things I felt myself get stronger over the years and helped with the ladies ;), it helped me compete in many bouts and being able not only last the whole fight but having the strength to win them as well
What did you learn through boxing that helped you in everyday life?
One thing that learned through boxing that helped me every was the discipline before I started I was going down a bad path and getting into trouble all the time since then its helped me control my actions and helped me strive in the stuff I loved and is still helping me till this day which I’m very very grateful for everyday
What do you think was the biggest positive change or benefit you gained from training with your Coach?
The biggest positive/change I had training with coach was that I always had someone to talk to about anything not only was he my coach but my mentor in life he’s helped me in many challenges I've had in life and has always been there for me no matter what and I believe that was the best positive I had training with coach
Was there a particular Life Value that stuck with you?
The particular life value that has always stuck me was from the page honesty and truthfulness although it has been many years I can still remember the whole Page but I’ll say the one that has always stuck with me, “say no if that’s what you mean not yes just to please someone” this means a lot because the wrong crowd of people can have such an impact on the way you act and think and being truthful and honest can mean a whole lot more and take you further in life then lying just to please someone.
What was your 2 highest achievements in Boxing or achievement during your time in the Gym/Academy?
My 2 highest achievements in the gym was having the opportunity to actually Compete against other Boxers in taking part in competitions in the ring and becoming a golden glove and Canterbury champion. My 1st match when I was 10.
Where are you now, and how did boxing, your Coach or your Academy play a role in getting there?
Currently I am 17 with a awesome career in roofing and owning 2 of my dream cars, boxing and my coach had a huge roll in this because I was taught what it meant to have discipline and motivation, to keep striving for goals and accomplishing them. There is so many other ways it has helped me to get where I am today.
What would you say to someone thinking about joining, or to a sponsor considering supporting the gym?
Personally I would absolutely encourage them to join because not only is it the best sport ever but there is so much more to it then throwing a couple punches, it has changed so many lives in so many good ways including myself, it teaches you life values, how to protect yourself outside the gym, it keeps you mentally and physically healthy, it teaches you the discipline that will take you far in life. Gives you the motivation to do the stuff you love and to reach your goals. Teaches you how to respect people and treat them properly, it gives you physical strength to grow in confidence!
What was your favourite part of training at the gym.
My favourite moment at the gym was probably having the chance to stay in the Marlborough sounds with a few other boys for a week, that was honestly one of the best times of my life being able to go kayaking to a cafe and going on a night walk to see glow worms to biscuiting in the open water and seeing stingrays and dolphins right next us, plus walking up the mountain and seeing the view of everything. the drive up there was even more fun there was so many funny experiences like coach making us eat a fire ball lollie from south Africa and seeing who could last the longest and the whole van stinking of cinnamon the whole 6 1/2 hour drive I still can’t stand it to this day.
Coach Comments:
Dayton joined my gym when he was just nine years old, and it didn’t take long for his potential to stand out. Within the first month, I invited him to competition training, simply because his work ethic was undeniable. From day one he trained with purpose, genuinely enjoying the technical side of boxing and showing a natural instinct for skill development well beyond his age.
He represented our gym for the first time at ten years old, and his debut match left the crowd stunned. His jab was crisp, his defence exceptional, and his ability to turn his opponent whenever he was pressured made him almost impossible to corner. Even experienced boxers were commenting on the level of skill he displayed that day. As he grew, Dayton became an outstanding competitive boxer, earning a Silver medal at the New Zealand Golden Gloves on a close split decision in the final at just thirteen. It was around this time he earned his gym nickname, “Flash”, thanks to his incredible defence and head movement that made landing a clean punch on him a rare achievement.
Beyond the ring, Dayton and I built a strong relationship over the years. His manners, respect, and genuine appreciation for the people around him never went unnoticed. One weekend, he and I even built a trophy and award wall in his room together, a place to proudly display the medals and achievements he had worked so hard for. It was a small project, but it reflected who he was: a talented young man with heart, humility, and a drive to excel.