Women’s Officials Development Programme Spotlight: Nichola Readman

Nichola Readman (Natural Progression) is hoping the Women’s Officials Development Programme will help her make the correct decisions at pivotal moments and catapult her to officiating on the biggest stages.

How did you first get involved with boxing and become an official?

I got involved in boxing and loved the training side of things, which led to me competing on three occasions. It was then that I knew I loved the sport.

I was asked to become a coach at the gym I was training in and I was excited to progress as a coach but I also wanted to learn more about being an official, so I took part in the officials course.

What do you hope to get from the WODP that can improve you as an official?

I’m hoping that the WODP will give me more confidence to make the correct decisions as an official. I believe listening to other officials’ experiences will help me become the best official that I can be.

What do you enjoy the most in your officiating role(s)?

I enjoy being a judge as it allows you to see everything that goes on in the ring from start to finish. Seeing the boxers enter the ring with so much energy and they’re ready to go for it until the final bell. It’s like having the best seat in the house.

Who are your biggest boxing inspiration?

Katie Taylor has always been my inspiration in boxing and she has changed the women’s game so much. She would pretend that she was a boy because female boxing was banned in Ireland!

She helped get women’s boxing into the Olympics and now she is selling out huge arenas… she’s so determined and passionate about boxing.

What is your aspiration in boxing?

It would be amazing if I could go to box cups and the Europeans as an official and referee, all while representing Tyne, Tees and Wear.