Zaur Antia Steps Down as Irish boxing Head coach, Leaving Behind a โคGolden Legacy
DUBLINโ – zaur Antia, the highly respected headโข coach of Irish boxing, is stepping down from his position, bringing an end toโ a transformative era for the โsport โคin Ireland.โ Antia, who resides in north Wicklow, will delay firm decisions regarding his future until early nextโ year.
Antia’s departure marks the end of a hugely accomplished tenure that saw Irish boxers achieve unprecedented international success, including Olympic gold for Kellie Harrington.โค His expertise hasโฃ made him a sought-after figure globally, wiht numerous boxing federationsโข expressing interest in his services. The move leaves a significant โขvoid within Irish boxing,but a succession plan is in โคplace with Damian Kennedy,currently head coach โwith Ulster boxing,expected to take over the role,while โคAntia will โlikely transition to a consulting โcapacity.
“He has five gold medals from the Commonwealth Games. He โคis a fantastic,charismaticโข person,a good leader and good coach,a good friend and very professional,” Antia said of Kennedy.
Antia, 63, reflected on โคthe importance of recognizing the right time to step โคaway. “you always have to know when to stop – that’s very vital. It will not be easy, it is indeed very difficult, as theโ memoriesโฃ are still inside you. โคYou can’t forgetโฃ that,” he stated.”But it is good to know whenโค you leave a good legacy. That is what life is about – what people say after you leave.”
The Irish boxing federation has offered Antia a consulting role, acknowledging his invaluable contribution. He intends to use his time away to rest and โexplore new avenues, including potentially writing a book or delivering presentations. hisโ impact on Irish boxing, however, will undoubtedly endure.
