Ronald Cooper

Ron has contributed to boxing over the past 65 years, representing GB at the 1948 Olympics, having won the Royal Navy championship and ABA title the previous year all followed by a successful professional career. Since then he has been involved in encouraging and coaching both professional and amateur boxers. His work as coach at the Repton, West Ham and Popular & District boxing club (of which he was a founder member) has been an inspiration to all. His support and encouragement to the young men in one of the country's poorest communities has been exemplary. These clubs have achieved national and international success, but more importantly the boys and young men have been positively influenced by Ron including his conduct and mantra 'dedication and hard work'. He is an active member of the London Ex-Boxers Association undertaking numerous charity activities including visiting sick members and various Boxing clubs to talk to youngsters. His 1948 Olympic blazer is current in the Hackney Museum of Boxing. In conclusion I nominate Ron for his sterling devotion to boxing over 65 years and his support and encouragement of others during that time.