Craig McDougall is the perfect person to have in your corner of the ring. A father of three boys, Craig has made a giant contribution to developing youth in Hawke’s Bay for well over a decade through boxing and sport academies.
His purpose is simple.
“I love people and have a passion for excellence, learning and development of youth. I believe that no matter your talent nor your adversity it’s your attitude that determines your altitude. I always strive to better myself and those around me, no matter the hurdles.”
A New Zealand boxing champion in his twenties, Craig moved with wife Vicki from Wellington in 2010, first helping establish the Flaxmere Boxing Club before founding the Hastings Giants, Havelock North Saints and Napier Dodgers Boxing Academies.
Hundreds of youth, many from tough backgrounds, have walked into the gym for the first time lacking confidence, to be turned into leaders amongst their peers.
The boxing academy has a long-held motto – ‘Belong, Believe, Become’ – that has been part of the drive for the new purpose-built gym that will officially open at the Mitre10 Regional Sports Park in August.
Thanks to the great management of the academy trustees and local sponsors such as Tumu Group and many more, over $125,000 was raised for the new gym as the contribution to a $2.5 million facility to share with Central Stags Cricket.
“It’s great that we have developed our own purpose-built club with an environment that brings out the best of everyone – whether that be a competitive boxer, a teenager that wants to just come and enjoy the space and train, as well as our coaches and supporters.”
Wow! Absolute Legend!
Craig and Vicki are fantastic people to work with
A true legend of a man who understands his position and responsibility. And backed by an equally incredible wife and awesome whanau. Go you good things!
Yeah. That’s my buddy. That’s a guy changing lives and making a difference in the world!
A giant amongst men. An awesome Role Model for my boys and so many others.