Boxer Pam McClelland makes professional debut

Self discipline, determination and her late father’s words ringing in her ears have helped Central Coast boxer Pam McClelland to reach her professional dream

Female boxing champion Pam McClelland in training at Charmhaven

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Former NRL cheerleader Pam McClelland’s dad always wanted her to become an air hostess. Instead, she became a boxer.

The 36 year old mother of two will make her professional boxing debut this weekend in Newcastle and believes her late father would have been “super proud” of how far she’s come.

“This is all for him now,” McClelland said.

Pam McClelland in her cheer leading days for Manly in the NRL.

Getting to the debut fight has been a seven year process punctuated by a variety of hurdles. Four years ago after stuggling to make her weight she discovered she was pregnant and later gave birth to second daughter Memphis. Most people wrote her off as a boxer at that point.

McClelland proved them wrong and she was back in the ring six months later.

Eighteen months ago, she was close to going professional when her beloved father died and plans were put on hold.

Pam McClelland with daughters Indirayne and Memphis (right).

But at every twist and turn the determined athlete never lost sight of her goal.

She continued her punishing training schedule six days a week and won a variety of amateur fights including the 2016 NSW Amateur light weight title with her father looking on.

“I’m very excited and overwhelmed by the support I’ve had to get here,” McClelland said.

“It’s my time finally.

Pam McClelland in action in the ring.

“With this fight I’ll be the first female professional boxer on the Central Coast,” she said.

Pam McClelland started boxing for fitness but soon developed a passion for the discipline and drive needed to succeed.

“It comes with a lof of sacrifice — I’ve missed a lot of weddings, and birthdays and family events,” she said.

As a single parent McClelland admits it has not always been easy, but she wanted to set an example for her eldest daugher Indirayne, 15, who is a Central Coast Mariners academy player.

“I want her to know you have to work hard to achieve your hopes and dreams,” McClelland said.

Pam McClelland is a born and bred Coastie and attended Budewoi Public School and North Lakes High School.