The value of experience and learning to fight your own fight: Orange PCYC boxing coach Justin Reid brings home a state title
Orange PCYC boxing coach Justin Reid had been boxing “on and off” for years, but it was only after coming under the tutelage of David and Jack Littlefield that he says he truly learnt what it takes to taste success in the ring.
Justin first took part in a competition bout 20 years ago, but as is often the case, work and other commitments saw him walk away from the sport.
Taking up the coaching role at the Orange PCYC three years ago reignited his passion and, under the guidance of the Littlefields, Justin was able to bring home a NSW Cruiserweight State Title from the “Thunder Down Under Fight Night” in Dubbo earlier in May.
“It's unreal! But I know I couldn't have done it without these guys behind me,” Justin said of his father-son coaching team.
Boxing is something that seems to be in the Littlefield family’s DNA. David’s grandfather was a pug and, drawn to the sport, David himself learnt the trade under Bobby and Garry Williams. His son Jack took an interest in his teenage years and both father and son have numerous titles and wins on their records.
“I've never had a coach like Jack and Dave,” Justin said, “I mean, Dave himself is the current NSW Masters welterweight Champion and Jack’s got countless State, Australian titles. I think combined they would have had over 100 fights!
“So going from basically training myself to linking up with a couple of guys with that much experience and knowledge and love for boxing. You can't really compare it to anything else.”
Prior to this title fight, Justin had had two close split-decision losses, but it served as good motivation, David said.
“Very well-deserved win for Justin!” David said. “I really think those close losses are what got him this title. Over the last couple of months, he upped his running distance in training and overall fitness regime, something that Justin himself knew he needed to improve on… There’s real passion and meaning in what he’s doing.”
Another focus for Justin and his coaching team has been to develop a style that suits his limited vision.
“I'm classed as being legally blind,” Justin said, adding that it was a condition he was born with.
“Jack was a really good inside fighter and he’s trying to teach me a style that sort of works for me where you don't have to rely so much on vision. You can rely on instinct and feel when you are in close,” he explained
“It sounds weird saying it,” added Jack. “Someone would hear that and think you're crazy, but honestly, you go a lot on feel and Reidy is doing it to perfection.”
Justin is now preparing for a three-round masters fight in Dubbo on June 9, while also keen to share his growing boxing knowledge and experience with his own young pupils.
It's unreal to be a part of Jack and Dave’s team, ‘cause I can bring what they teach me over to the PCYC and continue to filter down to the kids and build the program here.”