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M.B.E.Very few boxing stables have an M.B.E. corner man, even less also have an M.B.E. boxer. Spaniorum Farm has the privilege of having both.
Jane Couch, winner of five World Titles was awarded her M.B.E.for achievement. in the latest Queens Honours List. Dave Long, father of good professional light welterweight Chris Long (and a tidy competent, ‘corner man’ ), earned his award for services as a Sergeant Major in the British Army in 1993.
Two people with very different backgrounds. Dave Long, a product of a disciplined Army career, and Jane Couch from a background where ‘discipline’ was an unheard of word.
The often used cliché ‘boxing saved me’ could not be more appropriate than when applied to Jane and her pre-boxing days, days well documented in the book entitled “The Fleetwood Assassin”, a ring name she used before becoming a licensed professional boxer. Days when ‘skipping’ was more associated with not appearing for school, or later, work. ‘Rounds’ didn’t take place in a boxing ring but in various pubs, and lasted more than three minutes. Punches were periodically thrown but without technique or the benefits of hands being bandaged.
A chance viewing of a female boxing match on late night TV convinced Jane that she could beat both participants. A conviction that was severely put to the test when she visited Spaniorum Farm Gym and took part in some gruelling sparring and circuit training. Jane responded to the work and change of lifestyle winning her first World title against hot favourite Sandra Geiger in Copenhagen in 1996. Since then there has been four more World title victories in 38 fights - losing 10 and with 15 fights taking place in the opponents Country.
As well as boxing’ Jane has promoted boxing shows in Bristol, England and become an active member of the B.B.B. of C. (Western Area)
Doubtless due to Jane’s outspoken life style, there will be people who think her achievement to be in the Queens Honours list and being awarded the M.B.E., is unwarranted, but there are many more who admire the work and effort she has put into boxing and have offered their congratulations.
Jane’s reaction to her receiving the M.B.E. - “I was gob smacked - I thought someone was ‘having me on’!
PROFESSIONALS AND AMATEURS
As a long time boxing coach I have been constantly been disappointed at the A.B.A of E’s reluctance to openly admit that many of their boxers get advice and experience from training with professional trainers and boxers.
As an active professional boxer, during my service in the R.A.F. as a (P.T. Instructor) I trained and coached Boy Entrant boxers full time for four years, during which time I acted as coach at two Commonwealth Games, as assistant coach to the Ghana Team in Wales and later for the Welsh Team in Perth, Australia. I coached at West Ham A.B.C. for a year and a shorter time at Ilford Y.C. before leaving the R.A.F. I trained and coached a Ghanian boxer and seconded him in the Commonwealth Games in Vancouver, Canada. At no time did any amateur official say, “You can’t do this, you have a professional licence.
So now, when some amateur coaches are being paid (which surely makes them professionals) why can’t B.B.B of C. professional trainers be accepted as an asset to amateur boxing and be allowed to act openly as trainers and seconds?
During the 25 years I have been running Spaniorum Farm Gym we have had many good amateurs learning from the professionals and achieving as amateurs.
It is time the feebly talked about Pro/Am shows took place.
To sum up, using someone else’s words, “You wouldn’t go to an AMATEUR DENTIST would you?
With those words in mind, for any amateur or professional boxer wanting to improve their fitness or ability, Spaniorum Farm is worth a visit.
DANNY BUTLER
Danny's first professional fight outside Bristol - June 1st in Birmingham, saw Danny turn in a good performance and take the win on points.
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