Remembering Kevin Hickey: The Legacy of an Olympic Boxing Icon
Tributes pour in for Kevin Hickey MBE, the legendary Olympic boxing coach who shaped the careers of many British boxers and left a lasting legacy in the sport.
Tributes to Kevin Hickey MBE
The boxing world is mourning the loss of Kevin Hickey MBE, the iconic Olympic boxing coach who passed away at the age of 83. Hickey, who hailed from Lancashire, was a pivotal figure in British amateur boxing, coaching Team GB across five Olympic Games from 1972 to 1988. His funeral took place in Blackpool, where many of his former athletes and colleagues gathered to pay their respects.
A Coach Who Set the Standard
Known for his exceptional coaching standards, Hickey's methods were emulated worldwide. Richie Woodhall, a former Commonwealth Games gold medallist and WBC super middleweight world champion, described Hickey as an iconic figure in amateur boxing. Woodhall, who won a silver medal in the 1988 Olympics under Hickey's guidance, emphasized how Hickey's work with the Amateur Boxing Association (ABA) significantly influenced coaching systems globally.
Contributions to Olympic Sports
During his tenure with the British Olympic Association (BOA), Hickey served in various roles, including technical director and deputy Chef de Mission at both Summer and Winter Olympics. He established groundbreaking support services for Olympic athletes, such as pre-Games Holding Camps, which became a model for other nations. A BOA spokesperson highlighted his huge influence on British sports administration.
Return to Boxing and Legacy
In 2009, Hickey returned to boxing as the Performance Director of GB Boxing, where he played a crucial role in recruiting key figures like Rob McCracken and Richie Woodhall. His efforts in shaping Olympic-style boxing in Great Britain have left an indelible mark on the sport. GB Boxing expressed their sincere condolences to Hickey’s family, acknowledging his immense contributions.
Final Farewell
Richie Woodhall, along with other boxing luminaries, delivered eulogies at Hickey's funeral service at St John Vianney Roman Catholic Church in Blackpool. Hickey’s legacy as a coach, mentor, and advocate for amateur boxing will continue to inspire future generations of boxers and coaches worldwide.