FROM a field of hundreds of boxers, Mildura’s Lainesia Toutai has been selected as just one of ten youth and junior boxers to join the Boxing Australia Futures program.
The squad will train, travel and fight together, honing their skills before the top six fighters will be selected to fight internationally.
Toutai said it felt amazing to be selected for the squad.
“It feels really good’, I’m honestly lost for words I cant believe I’ve made it,” she said
“The best thing I can do now it train hard and try to do the best I can.”
Ladd’s Boxing Club coach Jackson Ladd said this was a massive opportunity for Toutai.
“If you have been selected for this, there is a good chance that in the future you will medal at the Olympics or the world titles,” he said.
“It is huge for the club, it is the biggest achievement we have had within the gym. It is a good stepping stone and shows that we are doing is the right thing.”
“Being on this team gives her access to extra support and if any fights arise, she will be going to them.”
Ladd said Toutai was a talented boxer and had a bright future in the sport.
“She was selected for the team because she won the Australian title and her abilities,” he said.
“She wants to have a crack she’s not scared to have a go. She understands the sport and how to fight and she punches like a man.”
As a member of the squad Toutai will head off to the AIS next month for a three-day training camp.
