"Where can I start?
 

Opening up is tough for me. I've always been private, but here's a glimpse into my life. My family had its challenges. My dad grew up with his full brother and three half-brothers in council estates. I never knew my maternal grandad, a career criminal, and my step-grandad had dementia. My grandmother passed away during the first Covid lockdown in April 2020.

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From nursery school, my mom struggled with mental health and disability after an attempted aggravating assault. My dad worked tirelessly to support us. I lost contact with my mom's side of the family due to past betrayals. Primary school was tough; I was bullied, and one teacher mistreated me until my parents intervened.

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Despite some early challenges, I found joy in boxing at age 10, following in my dad's footsteps. At 12, I joined Flex Gym, where professional trainer Stewart Nubley helped me grow. Boxing became my passion, and I thrived in the gym. Secondary school was challenging as I was the only one from my primary school, but I made new friends.

I excelled in boxing, inspired by legends like Muhammad Ali and Mike Tyson. I even won an amateur title. However, family issues and gym closures affected my progress. At 17, my sister's mental health struggles were difficult for our family, but the boxing gym was my refuge.

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At 21, a gang attack left me with facial injuries, and relationship problems followed. I got back into boxing for fitness but eventually faced legal troubles, resulting in a prison sentence. Prison was a turning point, and I was diagnosed with PTSD.

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After my release, I trained and coached at various gyms, facing challenges and rejection due to my past. Eventually, I founded Mansfield All Stars ABC, aiming to make a genuine community impact. Despite facing corruption and adversity, we transitioned into Ashfield Spartans Boxing Academy and are now one of the best clubs in the area.

Rich is our current Club Secretary, Matchmaker and Coach who is an instrumental part of our team. A True, authentic Role Model and qualified Mentor to our Club and its members. Now an Award winning Coach and England Boxing Coach Educator.