National Title Success For Rocky ‘R Kid’ Johnstone

Rocky Johnstone and TeamABC headed to Grantham for the England Boxing National Schools Finals on Saturday. ‘R Kid’ had boxed  in every round against some very strong opposition to reach the final and in his journey to this stage had really got himself noticed with some stunning displays, giving each of his opponents a standing eight count during every bout. Our young man had worked really hard in the gym putting in the extra hours for this competition as well as showing the discipline and correct attitude needed to box at this level and the results really showed this and his obvious talents.  However the final was the important one and Rocky needed to perform well to put himself in with a great chance of landing this prestigious title. We arrived early at the arena and as always Rocky was confident and couldn’t wait to get in the ring. With the weigh in done (bang on weight , as he had been in every single round) it was now a case of waiting and preparing for the biggest fight in this young mans career so far. Obviously due to what was at stake and of being such a young age he felt more nervous than ever before but being managed by our superb head coach Jon Dennis it was made sure these nerves were channeled perfectly and once in the ring these would disappear quickly. It was now time to make everything count as the bell sounded to start round1. Rocky started cautiously, seeing what his opponent had to offer before moving up a gear and establishing himself in the contest, halfway through round 1 and Rocky was starting to find his form and range and was clearly getting on top with some good clean shots on his opponent , ending the round strongly. Round 2 and his opponent showed his quality catching our man with some good single punches and showing good footwork but Rocky once again showed his quality countering with 2 and 3 punch scoring combinations taking the second round also. The final round and now Rocky was beginning to really flow, moving well across the canvas catching his opponent with a good variation of punches and ending the contest very strongly making sure victory would be his. Just like all the previous rounds it was announced ‘The Winner by way of Unanimous Decision….. Rocky Johnstone’. Our man had done it !!!!, Rocky got his deserved rewards and had won the National Schools Championships being crowned the best in the country for his age and weight (minors 41.5Kg). A fantastic achievement for the likeable and talented young man and for everyone connected with TeamABC. He now becomes the third National Champion and it was pleasing to see our other two champions their supporting young Rocky as well as other boxing teammates , coaches and staff. What a brilliant season for the club this has been so far and once again it clearly shows what a top club we are despite being tucked away in the Norfolk Countryside !!

Unfortunately Isabell Prices Final did not go ahead as sadly her opponent had to pull out due to illness. However Isabells time will definitely come and we will continue with the planned course we have for this very strong and talented young lady and are very confident she will be competing in many more finals later in her career.