Coach San hopes to create history for boxing at Games
As the clock ticks down to the official ceremony of the 2023 Pacific Games, young boxers from various categories, including some with experience, are gearing up to challenge their counterparts from other Pacific countries in the boxing arena.
Solomon Islands’ national boxing head coach, John San, currently leads local boxers through rigorous training at the Solomon Islands National Institute of Sports (SINIS) Complex in east Honiara.
Expressing satisfaction with the preparations, Coach San is on a mission to make history at the 17th Pacific Games in the Solomon Islands.
The journey commenced in April last year, 2022, and has persisted relentlessly, culminating in the countdown to the official opening ceremony of the 2023 Pacific Games.
In an interview with SIBC, Coach San demonstrates confidence iis team’s readiness, citing intensive training and open sparring sessions at SINIS.
“Some boxers even gained international exposure, participating in tournaments, including a three-month stint in China, enhancing their skills.
“Throughout the entire preparation, I believe we are ready for the games. We engage in intensive training, focusing on specific skills, strength conditioning, and fitness. I am confident in my boys’ readiness and the collaborative effort we’ve put in,” remarks Coach San.
The boxing team comprises two squads—one for the Olympic 2024 competition and another for the 2023 Pacific Games.
The latter consists of 12 male boxers across various weight categories and eight female boxers, all geared up for the upcoming competition. The team targeting Olympic qualification is also fully prepared with eight boxers.
Coach San emphasizes the importance of community support, inviting all boxing fans to come and cheer on Tuesday 27th of November 2023.
He perceives this as a significant and historical event, a benchmark for the country. The boxing action is scheduled to commence on the 27th of November, 2023, at the Friendship Hall. –ENDS//
By Alfred E. Pagepitu