Boxing Australia appoints first full-time Wellbeing and Engagement Manager

In a ground-breaking move to support athlete development, both in and out of the ring, Boxing Australia is thrilled to announce the appointment of Karl Harding as the first-ever full-time Wellbeing and Engagement Manager for boxing. This is a pivotal step for the sport, aimed at prioritising the mental, emotional, and overall health of athletes.

In this newly created role, Karl will work closely with athletes to ensure they receive comprehensive support across all aspects of their lives, including mental health, personal growth, and career development. By focusing on both their professional and personal well-being, this initiative is set to foster a healthy, positive environment that will ultimately enhance performance and personal satisfaction.

This role is part of Boxing Australia’s commitment to its “Win Well” philosophy and High-Performance Strategy, which encourages athletes to pursue success while maintaining their well-being, ensuring they thrive both in sport and in life. Karl will be responsible for developing and implementing programs that promote athlete welfare, providing guidance, and connecting athletes with the resources they need to succeed holistically.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Karl to the team. His extensive experience in athlete welfare will be instrumental as we continue to prioritise sustainable success for our athletes. At Boxing Australia, we believe well-being isn’t a luxury—it’s a cornerstone of long-term performance and excellence,” CEO Dinah Glykidis said.

The introduction of a dedicated Wellbeing and Engagement Manager Boxing Australia's progressive approach to sport, recognising the importance of mental and emotional health alongside physical performance. The appointment highlights a broader cultural shift towards a more sustainable and humane approach to winning in sport.

Harding will commence his role on April 7.