IWD 2025: Q&A with Ava Doherty
As part of our International Women's Day 2025 celebrations, we want to shine a spotlight on our inspiring female athletes. We've spoken to a selection about their sporting successes and what they plan on conquering next.
In this Q&A, we spoke to BTEC Sport and Exercise Science student Ava Doherty about her incredible boxing journey and upcoming tournaments.
How and when did you first get into boxing?
I’ve spent my life surrounded by boxing—both my older and younger brothers box, and my dad is a coach and corner man, so it was always a big part of my environment. However, I had little in common with the sport at first. I grew up playing netball as a defender, from five-a-side to seven-a-side, and later moved on to county shot put training at Northwood Stadium.
When COVID hit, home boxing training increased drastically. Then, a women’s class became available in my area. My best friend and I decided to give it a try, and I immediately fell in love with the sport. Getting hit didn’t put me off—I actually enjoyed the aggression and the sense of relief that came with it.
After being asked to join a team and fight for them, my dad persuaded me to join his club. From that moment, boxing became a true family sport. We've been pushing each other and training together for nearly two years now.
Have you competed in any competitions, or do you have any upcoming? What were the results?
Yes, I’ve competed in multiple competitions, including:
- Women’s Winter Box Cup – Won via 2nd-round stoppage
- Nationals – Won comfortably by unanimous decision
- Developments – Won via stoppage
- Manchester Box Cup – Won by unanimous decision
I’ve also competed in many other tournaments, earning several wins while learning from a few losses along the way.
Upcoming competitions include the Manchester Box Cup, Haringey Box Cup, Hull Box Cup, and any other opportunities that come my way. I’m especially excited for next season as a senior.
What is your favourite thing about boxing?
My favourite thing about boxing is the way it brings my family together. The love and support in the gym are indescribable—it doesn’t matter who you are or where you’re from; it feels like one big family. Winning together is a feeling like no other.
How do you balance boxing with your studies?
Sometimes, it’s difficult to juggle my studies, especially when I have to attend college on a Friday and then compete on a Saturday. My focus can be minimal due to nerves.
What are you working towards at the moment?
Right now, I’m working towards progressing on the England pathway and hoping to win the Haringey Box Cup, which is Europe’s largest boxing tournament and is even televised on DAZN
What is your favourite thing about studying at NSCG?
Seeing my friends and going on the college sports trips—they're always a good laugh!
What are your future plans after NSCG?
I hope to turn professional by the age of 22. In the meantime, I want to enjoy life and save up money to open a cute little café.
What song/artist do you have on repeat right now?
To be honest, my music taste is all over the place. I love a bit of 50 Cent before fights, but I’m also a big fan of sad songs - I love Adele.