Local boxer Jarod Sainsbury claimed victory at the NSW Novice State Titles recently for his weight and division at the Hudson Hotel in Seven Hills.

Sainsbury competed in the elite division for boxers aged over 19, in the 75kg weight class. He also fought in the C division, which is for fighters with less than four bouts.

Originally scheduled to have three fights, Sainsbury's first opponent withdrew. In his second bout, he secured a win in the second round, and in the final, he clinched the title with a unanimous decision.

His coach, Steven Anton - owner of Boost Boxing Gym in Albion Park Rail, where Sainsbury trains - said the title was a well-deserved achievement.

"He's been trying hard for a long time, and from the beginning, we set out with the goal to win this competition," said Anton.

"I had a lot of confidence in him based on how he trains. I knew he was going to be too strong for that category. His skill level is above the three-fight experience level."

It was Sainsbury’s first appearance at the NSW titles. Despite boxing for seven years, he had only two judged fights prior to the competition - both wins - as well as a few exhibition bouts.

"That’s quite normal in amateur boxing. Jarod’s had a lot of opponents pull out over the years," said Anton. "His first official fight with Boost was almost two years ago, but he’d been trying to get matched up for two years before that as well."

Anton explained that many boxers spend years building skills before entering regular competition.

"You start off training a couple of times a week, learn the fundamentals, and gradually develop into someone ready to fight. It's a natural progression."

Sainsbury is also a highly regarded coach at Boost Boxing Gym.

"From the first day he walked in, Jarod’s been about the community. He helps everyone, he's a team player, and he works incredibly hard," said Anton. 

"He listens, he trains hard, and he's super encouraging to everyone around him. He’s not just an amazing athlete - he’s an amazing coach as well."

"He's brilliant with the kids and juniors. He’s always inspiring others, always showing up, and just a massive asset to the gym. We all love him."

Sainsbury trains several times a week, putting in an average of 6-8 hours of physically and mentally demanding work. Anton believes this dedication is laying the groundwork for a professional future.

“Hopefully we can get him another 15 to 20 fights and turn him pro,” said Anton. “He’s ticking all the boxes. He’s doing everything we set out to do, and I’m so glad to be part of it.”

"It means everything to me to see his hard work paying off. The training is intense, it takes a real toll on the body - especially when you're working full-time and supporting a family. To have someone from the Boost Boxing family achieving so much makes me incredibly proud."