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Jack inspired to punch higher by brave mum’s battle

Peter SweeneyThe West Australian
Jack Clifford in the gym at Skybox. Pic: Peter Sweeney
Camera IconJack Clifford in the gym at Skybox. Pic: Peter Sweeney Credit: Peter Sweeney/The Geraldton Guardian

Jack Clifford was only two years old when his mum lost her fight with cancer . . . but he knows she’s in his corner whenever he fights.

Jack Clifford, elated at his recent win in Geraldton.
Camera IconJack Clifford, elated at his recent win in Geraldton. Credit: Supplied/The Geraldton Guardian, Supplied

Clifford, 28, didn’t know his mother, but is sure she’d be pretty proud of him, just like his dad Steve and older brother Tom.

The Cliffords moved from Perth to Geraldton when Jennifer Clifford (nee Maslen) developed breast cancer. Mrs Clifford was originally from Moonyoonooka and wanted to be near her family during her battle.

The late Jennifer Clifford.
Camera IconThe late Jennifer Clifford. Credit: Supplied/The Geraldton Guardian, Supplied

“Sadly, mum didn’t make it,” Jack Clifford said. “I was too young to remember her, but obviously dad has told me plenty and I’ve got some treasured photographs.”

Boxing is a passion of the 28-year-old . . . and how he keeps fit and releases whatever tensions he has. And when he’s not training or preparing for fights, he coaches youngsters.

The late Jennifer Clifford with her son, Jack.
Camera IconThe late Jennifer Clifford with her son, Jack. Credit: Supplied/The Geraldton Guardian, Supplied

Clifford left the ring at his most recent scrap with a bloodied cut above his left eye which required five stitches.

Jack Clifford in the gym at Skybox. Pic: Peter Sweeney
Camera IconJack Clifford in the gym at Skybox. Pic: Peter Sweeney Credit: Peter Sweeney/The Geraldton Guardian

More importantly, he beat old sparring partner Taylor Coffin in the welterweight contest for senior elite men at the WA Regional championships in Geraldton.

“It was good, but the cut will take a while to heal,” Clifford said.

Jack Clifford takes a break and relaxes on the ropes. Pic: Peter Sweeney
Camera IconJack Clifford takes a break and relaxes on the ropes. Pic: Peter Sweeney

“It has put me out of the WA Novice titles which started on Saturday and are on over the next couple of weeks. We have an exhibition day early next year and I’ll do much in the gym and be ready to resume fighting in February/March.

“Dad dropped me at the (Geraldton) PCYC when I was 12 or 13 and I’ve been boxing since then.

Jack Clifford takes a break and relaxes on the ropes.
Camera IconJack Clifford takes a break and relaxes on the ropes. Credit: Peter Sweeney/The Geraldton Guardian, Peter Sweeney

“I loved it, I wasn’t too crack hot at team sports and found this was something I could do.”

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