Luke Bibby is proving to be a “first class inspiration” for proud fellow Perth Railway Boxing Club members.
The 22-year-old former Perth Academy student is currently on assessment to potentially join the GB Boxing Squad.
And on Saturday he continued his rise by defeating Ireland’s Anthony Malnaphy via points while representing Scotland in a Dual International contest.
Bibby has long been associated with South Methven Street-based Perth Railway Boxing Club.
“Luke joined the club around the age of 13 or 14 and he was still playing football at the time,” recalls club chairman and head coach Stuart Campbell.
“I remember him from the start – he was quiet but just always just turned up consistently.
“After a while you begin to notice that this lad is working hard here and doing everything he was asked, listening to what he was being taught and slowly coming along.
“We then got him to start training with the seniors which wasn’t something we had done previously. He just got better and better and worked harder and harder.
“I think every coach has enjoyed watching Luke’s progress and every coach at the club past and present has helped him along his journey. Steve Petrie put a lot of time in with Luke too, especially in the early days.
“Watching him progress from the start through the novices, intermediate and onto the elite level has been rewarding for all the coaches at the club, who give up so much time. Boxers putting in the hard work like Luke makes it worthwhile.”
A number of club members travelled to the Ravenscraig Regional Sports Facility at the weekend to watch Bibby in action.
“He’s a first class inspiration to the young boxers at the club,” Campbell added. “They love Luke and are all very proud of him.
“He gives up his spare time when he’s back and even trains some of the current lads one-to-one when he can.
“Nobody should underestimate how much hard work and dedication Luke has put into his boxing and the sacrifices he has made.
“He is the example to others at the club of what it takes and what can be achieved.”
Campbell continued: “It’s been a while since Luke has boxed in front of his team mates and they grabbed the opportunity to be there on Saturday to get behind him.
“Boxing is an individual sport but every club is a team and we help and support each other. There has always been that sense of teamwork at the club.
“It was great to see all the young boxers get down and support Luke. And Luke appreciates them. It gives everyone a boost at the club to watch Luke perform and win.”
On the club front, Perth Railway have a busy April coming up.
Campbell said: “We haven’t had the best starts to this season with a run of losses in the last couple of outings so I think our heads have been down.
“But hopefully going into the last few months of the season – and with Luke leading the way – we can turn it around.
“Justin Morton and Ryan Fair are out next on the Brechin home show. And then Owen O’Brien next at Fauldhouse.
“The guys know what is required – hard work, dedication and sacrifice. I’m sure they can do it.”
