Tribute to Eric Hoyland

England Boxing is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Eric Hoyland. Eric served as the Yorkshire Amateur Boxing Association secretary for many years and was widely regarded as the saviour of the organisation, reviving it during a time when it faced financial ruin and an uncertain future.

Eric Hoyland played a pivotal role in revitalising the Yorkshire Amateur Boxing Association by forming a dedicated committee that included notable figures such as Harry Pritchard, Mick Ryan, and Bob Wright MBE. Under his strong and visionary leadership, he transformed Yorkshire into one of the largest and most successful associations in the country.

He also achieved a significant milestone by bringing the National Amateur Championships (formerly known as the ABA’s) to Barnsley, Yorkshire—a remarkable shift from its traditional home in London.

Hoyland’s passion for amateur boxing was evident in everything he did, and he was unwavering in his commitment to ensuring the Yorkshire Association thrived during his tenure. Members fondly remember him as a “fair person who always put the organisation first,” and they deeply appreciated that every decision he made was guided by what was best for the association.