12-year-old King ready to rule the ring after winning national gold

Ruby King is a jewel in Darling Downs sport. The 12-year-old is one of several boxers dominating the national landscape. Discover the key to her success.

Smithy's TGW Gym member Ruby King after success at the Australian Amateur Boxing League Titles in Tasmania. Picture: Kevin Farmer

If Ruby King had her way she would be a ‘veteran’ boxer by now.

Instead she is just over a year into her boxing journey and already ‘punching’ well beyond her years.

With just two fights under her belt the 12-year-old came home from the Australian Amateur Boxing League Titles with gold draped around her neck.

“It was amazing, the most amazing experience I’ve had in sport ever,” she said.

“I was a little bit nervous when I started warming up, but I always get a little bit nervous when I warm up.

“Once I’m ready I just try to think about all the things I’ve learned and worked on in training which always helps.”

The youngest of three sisters, Ruby first told her dad John that she wanted to box when she about six years old.

John stalled his daughter for as long as possible before allowing her to join Smithys TGW Country Gym (Pittsworth) where she trains under the watchful eyes of Bradley Smith and Gary Ruhle.

The key to Ruby’s almost meteoric rise is simple and also one of the reasons why she loves boxing.

“You get what you put in,” she said.

“If you work hard in training you get the results when you fight.

“I really like that about boxing.”

Having two ready made role models in her corner is also a massive help.

Ruby was one of three female boxers from Smithys TGW Gym to pick up gold medals at the titles in Tasmania.

Lekaysha Woodbridge (51 and 54kg Junior gold) and Amelia O’Toole (57kg Junior gold) won their respective divisions and in the past year have inspired and mentored Ruby.

“Winning two gold medals is really special,” Woodbridge said.

“It hasn’t really sunk in for me yet.

Smithy's TGW Gym members (from left) Amelia O'Toole, Andy Kisel, Ruby King and Lekaysha Woodbridge show their medals after success at the Australian Amateur Boxing League Titles in Tasmania. Picture: Kevin Farmer

“I was actually a little bit nervous heading into these titles after facing a few different challenges so to come away with two gold medals is a fantastic feeling.

“I know one of them was a walkover (Woodbridge’s 51kg rival decided not to contest the final) but at the same time you have to work really hard to be in the position to win.

“It’s a great way to wrap up what’s been a big year.”

Woodbridge was in Ruby’s corner during her Australian title campaign and throughly enjoys working with her.

“Watching her journey and being able to be a part of it as well is amazing,” Woodbridge said.

“It’s humbling to think that she (Ruby) looks up to people like me and Amelia.

“A lot of girls struggle to find their place in the world and if I can help them find their place, follow their dreams, well that’s great.

“Ruby is fantastic. She works really hard, listens and takes advice on board, she deserves all the success.”

Unbeaten finish to year

Amelia O’Toole had extra motivation to pick up gold at the Aussie titles.

Unbeaten this year she was determined to keep her perfect record intact.

“It was a really good feeling winning the gold,” she said.

“It’s been a big year and to have all the hard work pay off with one last win was special.

“Knowing all the hard work has paid off makes it worthwhile and that little bit more special.”

Year of learning

Andy Kisel’s year didn’t quite finish up the way he wanted it to, but he’s not upset.

The Smithys TGW Gym boxer finished with bronze, losing a split points decision, at the Aussie titles.

“I was just a bit unlucky,” he said of his defeat.

“I thought I fought really well but the decision just didn’t go my way.

“Overall it’s been a great year for me though.

“I learned a lot and really developed as a boxer. I’ve had 13 fights this year and got better in everyone.

“As boxer I’ve changed a lot, it’s been a big learning year.

“I haven’t fighting been very long, this is my first full year, but I’ve changed a lot.

“I used to a bit of a brawler but now I am lot more technical, my overall skills are better and I’m definitely feeling better as a boxer.”