Wakefield amateur boxing star Sam Clark makes winning professional debut – 10 years on
Wakefield boxer Sam Clark is ‘ecstatic’ at making a successful professional debut on a show at Barnsley Metrodome after years away from the sport in which he had been a highly successful amateur.
Clark beat Doncaster’s Sam Kirk over four rounds in a middleweight bout organised by his manager Wayne Woods Twenty20 Promotions, writes James Bovington.
“The whole occasion was unbelievable,” said Clark. “I was overwhelmed with the support I had from over a hundred people who’d bought tickets.
"I was massively encouraged hearing them shouting for me and although at times I thought I could be doing better, my coach Ric was pleased with my performance.
"My corner team remained positive throughout. I sustained some cuts above my right eye in the second and fourth rounds making it difficult to see but the cutman did a top job.
"That’s part of it and a small price to pay for the win, which I dedicated to three people. My wife Savannah without whose support this wouldn’t have been possible and my dad Dave who’s stuck by me as a boy boxer and now as a professional adult fighter. But most of all to my grandma Yvonne Currie. She supported me at every amateur bout and although she’s no longer with us, she’ll always be my inspiration.”
Twenty-eight-year-old Sam lives with his wife and two young children in Thornes and manages his own road surfacing business.
“I’d had 10 years away from competitive boxing for various reasons and I’ve come back to it as I need something that gives purpose and focus and which can set a good example for my son and daughter,” Clark explained.
"I’m proud of my lovely family and proud to be running a successful business, which has allowed me to sponsor Trinity Boxing Club where I’m now coached by Ric Bennett.”
Ric said: “Sam’s opponent was equally keen to win. Sam showed class and composure. He demonstrated the skill and talent quality that saw him achieve everything in the amateur sport, including boxing for England.
"His determination after a long time away from the sport shows a lot about his character and ability. Everyone in Wakefield should be happy for him.”
Bennett’s plan is for Sam to be on a show in July.
“If he keeps making the expected progress, there’s no reason he can’t compete for belts within the year.
"Sam’s got massive support in Wakefield already. His exciting, crowd-pleasing style can energise Wakefield boxing. Sam’s one that local fans will want to support.”
Sam himself is “grateful for the opportunity and keen to see how far he can go.
He added: “I never thought I’d reach this point in life where everything is so positive.
"Wakefield boxing is booming at present. I’m delighted to be part of it.
“I appreciate the generosity of a range of sponsors, including HB Surfacing, Clark Surfacing, HH Construction, The Griffin Sports Bar Wakefield, Mick Sargent Building Services, The Tanning Studio, Filtered Beauty & Aesthetics, Mark Dobson Paving, Amg Utility Solutions, Pro-Fitness Yorkshire, DS Accounting Solutions, @steppingstonesdaynursery, @teamphenomacademy, Ravensport Sports & Leisure, and Amy Media Box.”
Further potential sponsors can contact Sam via Instagram @sam_clark66 or e-mail [email protected]