The National Indigenous Development Camp

Culture, Connection and Craft at the National Indigenous Development Camp

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander boxers and coaches from across the country came together at the AIS Combat Centre in Canberra from 17 to 20 September for Boxing Australia's National Indigenous Development Camp. Among them were Karen Jackson from Hobart PCYC and Ash Ifopo from Underdog Boxing, who came home with plenty to share.

The days were long and structured. Karen described an early start each morning, with the group meeting at 6.30am for an hour of technical boxing before breakfast. Mid morning brought strength and conditioning, followed by lunch and afternoon sessions of technical work, tactical ring work and sparring. After dinner the coaches met to talk through the day, and the group finished with games. The camp wrapped up on the final day with a 3km Cooper run test.

For Ash, the camp was about much more than training. "It wasn't just about boxing, it was about culture, identity and building relationships with other Indigenous athletes and coaches," Ash said. "The days were big, but seeing everyone grow in confidence, develop their skills and connect with their culture made it incredibly worthwhile."

Asked for a highlight, Ash didn't hesitate. "Connecting with others from my mob, sharing stories and learning more of my culture. Suppose the boxing was good too," Ash laughed.

Karen's highlight was learning new skills and being around a fantastic group. She said the boxers left with new skills, new friends and real improvement in just a few days away. "Indigenous camps are a fun way to bring our backgrounds and boxing together as one," she said.

Both coaches believe the benefits will last well beyond the ring. Ash said the boxers pushed themselves outside their comfort zones, trained alongside new athletes and coaches, and will leave with a stronger belief in what they can achieve. The biggest takeaway, though, is belonging.

"Being Indigenous myself, I know how important it is to feel like you belong somewhere and to be surrounded by people who understand your culture, your background and where you come from," Ash said. "You can teach someone how to throw a punch, but giving them a space where they feel supported, represented and connected is something much bigger."

Ash also sees the camp as proof of a pathway. "Our young Indigenous boxers can see Indigenous athletes, coaches and leaders around them and realise there is a place for them in boxing too. It's about creating opportunities I wish more people had growing up, and making sure the next generation feels seen, supported and proud of who they are, both in and out of the ring."

Congratulations to Karen, Ash and all the boxers and coaches who took part.