World champion backs Queensland GC2018 hopeful

Published Friday, 06 April, 2018 at 03:35 PM

Minister for Housing and Public Works, Minister for Digital Technology and Minister for Sport
The Honourable Mick de Brenni

The eyes of the boxing world will be on the Gold Coast’s Skye Nicolson when she makes her Commonwealth Games debut at midday tomorrow.

Minister for Sport Mick de Brenni said big things are expected of the 22-year-old who claimed bronze at the world championships in Kazakhstan in 2016 – 27 years after her brother Jamie achieved the same feat in Moscow in 1989.

Skye has since furthered her claims for Games medal contention by claiming the national title in November.

“Skye’s going into the Games in great form,” said Mr de Brenni.

“She has had more than 100 amateur fights around the world – she is a world-class boxer.”

“This time is Skye’s time.”

World champion boxer and Queensland sporting hero Jeff Horn said he was thrilled to see a former Queensland teammate competing at the Games, and wished her all the best for her first bout.

"I've known Skye for years, and I am so excited to watch her represent Australia and take on the world's best," Mr Horn said.

"She's going to make us all proud, and I know the whole state will be cheering her on."

Jamie was 22 when he and younger brother Gavin tragically died in a car accident in 1994. And while she never met her brother, seasoned boxers do notice distinct similarities between them.

Mr de Brenni said this extends beyond fast fists and southpaw stance – Skye also has the will to win that propelled the Nicolson name into Australian boxing’s book of history.

“At just 22 years old, Skye is already an inspiration to so many boxing fans and it is fantastic news that she will be representing Queensland on the international stage,” he said.

“I’m sure all Queenslanders join me in wishing Skye all the best for her final preparations for the Games – the whole country will be behind her on Saturday.”

The Yatala local started boxing when she was 12 and dedicates each win to the memory of her brothers.

Mr de Brenni acknowledged the support staff at the Queensland Academy of Sport, including the science, strength and health teams who’ve worked tirelessly alongside Queensland’s Commonwealth Games athletes.

“The years of behind-the-scenes work often goes unseen, but it’s what helps our athletes go that extra one percent and ensures they’re performing at their absolute best while representing the green and gold,” he said.

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Media contact: Cat Milton 0447 117 132