Nicola Adams, the celebrated Olympic boxing champion, recently conducted a masterclass at the Ipswich Boxing Club in Suffolk. This event not only highlighted her commitment to nurturing young talent but also brought back fond memories of her own beginnings in the sport.

Adams, who clinched gold medals in the 2012 and 2016 Olympics, expressed her joy in engaging with the young boxers. "Seeing these young fighters reminds me of my early days in boxing. It’s exhilarating and almost makes me want to step back into the ring," she shared.

Her uncle, Rob Ottley, who is a coach at the club, praised Adams for her hands-on approach during the session. "She was actively involved, working on pads with everyone. The kids were thrilled," he said.

Adams emphasized the importance of boxing gyms as safe spaces for youth, particularly for those from challenging backgrounds. "Boxing gave me focus and a purpose. It’s more than a sport; it’s a lifeline for many," she added.

In addition to her athletic achievements, Adams is a trailblazer for the LGBT community in sports. She is also the new host of the BBC's LGBT Sport Podcast, further using her platform to advocate for diversity and inclusion in sports.

Eilish Tierney, Ipswich’s first professional female boxer, also trained with Adams during the session. "Having someone of Nicola’s caliber here is incredible. She’s paved the way for many of us," Tierney remarked.

Rob Ottley concluded by encouraging more girls to take up boxing, highlighting the sport’s benefits beyond physical fitness. "Whether they aspire to be champions or just want to stay fit, boxing is a fantastic way to keep youth engaged and productive," he said.

This event not only showcased Nicola Adams’ enduring influence in the boxing world but also her dedication to inspiring and empowering the next generation of athletes.