Ben Duff

Ben Duff has taken local boxers to the Commonwealth Games four times during his 18 years as coach at Guernsey Amalgamation Boxing Club, and has just returned from the games in Glasgow with Niall Adams. 
‘He’s a father figure to a lot of people without even realising it,’ said his nominator, Casey De La Mare. 
‘On top of giving all his time to the club, he always makes sure everyone’s alright even when they’re not boxing.’ 
Mr De La Mare said that while taking some time away from the ring due to injury, Mr Duff had consistently checked up on him. 
‘He’s cool and calm and makes sure everyone’s ready to step into the ring. 
‘Even with the limited resources the club has, he’s still managed to take us to the Commonwealth Games, numerous championships, and box cups. If it weren’t for Ben, the club would’ve closed years ago.’ 
Since becoming head coach in 2013, Mr 
Duff spends three or four nights at the club each week. Seeing his students develop confidence as boxers and individuals makes the demanding nature of the role more than worth it. 
Mr Duff has a busy schedule coming up following the Commonwealth Games, preparing three of his boxers for novice national championships in September, followed by several elite European box cups and the national elite championships. 
‘It’s great for our boxers to gain valuable experience boxing at the international level. It’s a memory that will be with them for life and can hopefully inspire others to get involved with the sport,’ he said.