Teens pack punch

Four of Broome’s best boxers were in for the fight of their fledgling careers when they travelled to Geraldton recently to compete in an action-packed event. Baden Trunfio, 13, Ash Schaffer, 13, Jace Morgan, and Luke Kent, 16, represented the Broome Boxing Club at the meet, competing alongside some of Perth’s best fighters. Trunfio, Schaffer and Morgan all made their debuts, while Kent competed in his second fight. Broome Boxing Club trainer Connor Gerrard said while expectations were not high for each of the fighters, Trunfio and Schaffer shocked everyone with their stand-out performances. “While they still have a few things to work on, they did an unbelievable job and got some valuable experience from it,” he said. Gerrard said while it seemed nerves got the better of Morgan in terms of his footwork, he did not back out of the challenge. “We’ve all learned a lot from the show and I hope this shows the boys what it’s like to compete and how to control themselves,” he said. “From a coaching perspective, I have also learned a lot on how to prepare the boys and keep them calm before each fight. “The boys were definitely in good spirits and handled themselves well. “They should be very proud of themselves for what they have managed to achieve.” Despite not coming home with titles, Broome Boxing Club were named club of the tournament. Gerrard said winning the award was a great achievement and he hoped it would help put boxing on the map in Broome. “It has given us a lot of fire in the belly to push from here,” he said. “We’re hoping to host our own event early next year, so competing in Geraldton was a good first step towards that.” Event organiser Jake Peacock said it was great to see Broome represented in the tournament. “They all did exceptionally well,” he said. “It’s a six-hour drive from Broome to Geraldton, so to see that these boys made it all the way down just shows their dedication. “It was also great to catch up with them, and Connor as I had a bit to do with them when I was based in Derby.”