Saturday 18 April will be remembered as a deeply emotional and proud day for everyone connected with Spennymoor Boxing Academy, as the club hosted its long-awaited home show.
This year’s event carried special significance as it was dedicated to the memory of much-loved coach Neil McCormick, who passed away peacefully on 7 April at the age of 73 following illness. Before a single punch was thrown, the club paid tribute with a moving ten-bell salute, attended by Neil’s family and friends.
Neil was far more than a coach—he was a cornerstone of the academy for over 30 years. His dedication, passion, and mentorship helped shape the lives of countless boxers and members of the community. A loving father, grandfather, brother, and friend to many, he was described as the heart and soul of the club. His presence will be sorely missed, and heartfelt condolences were extended to his family and loved ones.
With emotions high, the focus then turned to the boxing—and what followed was a night to remember.
Head Coach Robert Ellis praised the electric atmosphere, with a strong local crowd creating a fantastic environment for the athletes. The standard of boxing on display was exceptional, featuring a mix of emerging talent and experienced competitors. Several bouts were closely contested, while others saw dominant performances against tough opposition.
Spennymoor’s boxers rose to the occasion, producing a series of impressive displays and securing 12 victories from 16 bouts overall. More importantly, each fighter demonstrated the discipline, respect, and sportsmanship that are at the core of the academy’s values.
Event Results:
* Shaun Price (Spennymoor) beat Cooper Harding (Larsons) – WPTSUN
* Charlie Davis (Spennymoor) beat Harvey Ward (Ward Degnans) – WPTSUN
* Levi Jackson (Spennymoor) lost to Mason Richardson (Larsons) – LPTSUN
* Dalton Quinn (Spennymoor) beat Frankie Thompson (Newbiggin) – WRSC2
* Terri Marie Price (Spennymoor) beat Ruby Mai Neil (Sunderland) – WRSC2
* Noah Rowland (Spennymoor) beat Max Mort (Horsley Hill) – WPTSUN
* Robert Hammond (Spennymoor) lost to Richard Laws (Sunderland) – LPTSUN
* Jacob Stokes (Spennymoor) beat Harry Pringle (Marden) – WPTSUN
* Thea Caine (Spennymoor) lost to Tenesha Armbuster (North Star) – LPTSUN
* Ellis Dixon (Spennymoor) beat Zak Scott (Sunderland) – WSPLIT
* Chris Dolphin (Spennymoor) beat Jake Finlinson (Northumberland F&R) – WPTSUN
* Kacey Ferguson (Spennymoor) beat Isobel Saunderson (Newbiggin) – WPTSUN
* Evan Dixon (Spennymoor) beat Oliver Armstrong (NRG) – WPTSUN
* Kai Goodall (Spennymoor) lost to Harvey Wallace (Hartlepool Catholic) – LPTSUN
* Aaron Barker (Spennymoor) beat Dan Zahra (Horsley Hill) – WSPLIT
* Billy McAloon (Spennymoor) beat Kieran Marr (Horden) – WSPLIT
Reflecting on the event, Robert Ellis paid tribute to his coaching team, describing them as the backbone of the club. Each coach gives their time voluntarily, often juggling work and family commitments, to support and develop the academy’s fighters.
He also expressed sincere gratitude to the many sponsors and supporters who made the event possible. Special thanks were given to long-time supporter Andrew Ward for his continued backing and belief in the club over many years.
Appreciation was also extended to Dominic Cummings and his wife Mary, who attended the show and made a generous donation, continuing their valued support of the academy.
Finally, Spennymoor Town Council was thanked for its ongoing encouragement and recognition of the club’s role within the community—not just as a boxing academy, but as a positive force for local young people.
The evening was a powerful reminder of what Spennymoor Boxing Academy stands for: community, resilience, and opportunity. In honouring the past and celebrating the present, the club continues to look ahead with confidence to an exciting future.
Spennymoor's local community newspaper.
