Women’s Officials Development Programme spotlight: Adele Callaghan (Lambton Street)

The current Grade C judge, who is keen to become a supervisor, is hoping to use the programme to help climb the officiating ladder.

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How did you first get involved with boxing and become an official?

I was and always will be a boxer’s mam first, who attended the gym for every session, and I wanted to become more involved. I did express interest in being a female coach, but this opportunity at the time never came about.

Our head coach at the time, when he could see I was getting restless, asked if I would be interested in being an official. I didn’t know what he meant at first, but I said yes anyway.

This was something that I have never looked back on and I have enjoyed traveling up and down the country judging, being an MOA and timekeeper. I am a keen learner and have since gone on to become a coach, but I must say I prefer being an official.

What do you hope to get out of the WODP that can improve you as an official?

I hope to be able to become a recognised female official within England Boxing and further take my development as far as it can go.

What do you enjoy the most in your officiating role(s)?

I enjoy the people I meet, the effect it has on young people and the change it can have on people.

Who are your biggest boxing inspiration?

My biggest inspiration is my son. He started boxing to control his temper and to make himself a better man. It has helped him to also take of control his anxiety and depression by attending the gym.

What is your aspiration in boxing?

To go as far as I can within the boxing community, this can be in the UK or further afield. The only person who can put limits on me is me-  and I don’t plan on doing that.