Celebrating Kaitiaki O'Neil’s Shine at Boxing National Championships.
Information and Photo Source: https://www.boxingnz.org.nz/newsarticle/146493?newsfeedId=545567
The Tauranga Boxing Academy (TBA) is celebrating the remarkable success of one of our own, Kaitiaki O'Neil, who secured a gold medal at the Boxing New Zealand National Championships held in Christchurch from October 2-5, 2024. O'Neil's victory marks a significant milestone for his academy, as he becomes the first TBA boxer to achieve a national championship gold.
Kaitiaki’s journey into boxing began in 2021 at the age of eleven, when he first faced fellow boxer Suliasi Lolohea Kaifa in the ring as opponents from different clubs. Their competitive encounter blossomed into a strong training partnership when O'Neil joined TBA in 2022. Under the guidance of Head Coach Mike Owen, both young athletes have demonstrated exceptional dedication and progress.
"Kaitiaki and Suliasi first met in the ring as eleven-year-olds in 2021. The following year, Kaitiaki joined our gym, and they have become very good training partners ever since," said Owen. "Both boys were selected for the Boxing New Zealand Cadet Development squad in 2023 and 2024. They work very hard in training, pushing each other every time they jump into the ring. It is a great achievement for our two young boxers to attain such outstanding results so early in their careers."
In the Cadet 44kg semi-final, O'Neil showcased his prowess by defeating his Waikato opponent, with the referee stopping the bout in the second round. He continued his impressive performance in the final against Manawatu's Boston Hempel, securing a 4-1 majority decision. This national title adds to O'Neil's growing list of accomplishments, including victories at the North Island and Australian Golden Gloves tournaments.
The TBA, part of the Bay of Plenty Youth Development Trust established in 2017, aims to address growing inequalities among rangatahi in the Tauranga region. Through structured boxing programs, the academy imparts not only boxing skills but also essential life lessons in punctuality, respect, fitness, and self-esteem.
O'Neil's success is a testament to the effectiveness of TBA's holistic approach to youth development. His achievements have brought pride to his whānau, the academy, and the broader Tauranga community, inspiring fellow rangatahi to pursue excellence both in and out of the ring.
