Kempsey’s Natasha Chapman recently had her name etched in the history books as she was announced as the first ever female official for the World Boxing Foundation (WBF).
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Chapman has been appointed as an official for the WBF’s Australiasian region and she has already been scheduled to referee a title bout in China in July.
The promotion has opened up plenty of opportunities for Chapman and she’s enthusiastic about the possibilities.
“This is a huge step forward in my career and I am really excited for the new opportunities,” Chapman told the Argus.
“I am getting calls from people all over the world.”
Chapman, who owns the Lower Macleay Boxing Club on Eden St, began her involvement in boxing when she began training under renowned Kempsey figure and boxer Lloyd Hudson in 2011.
She had an instant passion for the sport and signed up to become a professional referee with combat sports to increase her involvement.
Chapman regularly officiates professional bouts in Australia, which have been televised on Foxsports, and she claims her most prestigious event to referee at was the Boxing Mania at Tweed Heads.
The former Melville High School student admits boxing is a predominantly male industry but is hopeful her success can encourage other woman to consider the career path.
“I hope this opens the door for more women to get involved and become officials, especially in Australia,” Chapman said.
“It isn’t as scary as people think and it’s a very rewarding job.”
Chapman claims she has always felt accepted in the boxing community.
“It is hard making it in a male dominated sport but I know what I am doing and I stand by it,” she said.
“The boxers are all very respectful and I have never encountered a problem.”
Chapman was also invited to be the guest of Lovemore Ndou, a former WBF, IBO and IBF World Champion, at his induction into the Australian National Boxing Hall of Fame on March 2 in Melbourne.
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