15-year-old Dani took to the ring on Friday with a well-matched 16-year-old from Barrhead in the IMC Project home show, following her disappointment in missing out on Scotland trials due to illness.
Both girls made history as it was the first time any girls had featured on a home show for the IMC.
Starting the night off, both girls took to the ring and showcased their skills, with Dani using her jab to her advantage as she took the first round. The second round was non-stop, and the third had Dani determined to take the win.
After the final bell, Dani stood centre ring waiting on the result and was delighted when the referee lifted her arm for the win.
Dani said: “It was great to be back in the ring.
“I was worried, as I have been so ill, that I wouldn’t be better in time. I wasn’t 100% fit, but I gave it my best. All my family came to support me, so I really wanted to win, and Jordan, my coach, really knows what to say to get me ready.
“When the red corner was announced, I was delighted and I get to add another trophy to my collection.”
She continued: “I am going to work hard now to get my fitness back, ready for the King of the North Box Cup at the end of the month.
“I would like to thank all the coaches, especially Jordan for all he does for me, my sponsors Ferguslie Garage and Josmio Studios, and the club sponsors Fyne Raja Restaurant & C&S Contractors.”
Her triumph comes after the bitter disappointment of missing out on her national team chance.
Having come down with a cold the week before her trial, Dani battled through in the hopes of competing at British level. However, she woke up on the day of the event unable to open her eyes — a symptom of what turned out to be a bad eye infection.
She said: “I was so looking forward to the trials.
“I had spent time preparing and I was determined to make the team. The Four Nations (British) Championships are being held in Scotland this year, making it even more special.”
Recalling the moment she woke up, she added: “I called on my mum and we were both horrified.
“I was just devastated. Although I could barely see, I begged to still go and try, but both Jordan and my mum were saying no and that my health was more important.
“I asked my mum to contact Boxing Scotland to see if I could go to the adult trials and prove I could do it, but sadly and understandably they said no.
“I was just gutted and I felt I had let everyone down. Jordan had put so much time into me and I would have been the first person from Dunoon to compete in the British. Everyone had been so supportive and wishing me luck; I didn’t know what I would say.
“I have been looking forward to this opportunity all year and it hits hard again now as the selections have been announced. I am trying to stay positive for next year, but it isn’t easy as I will be 16 in an under-19 category.”
However, Dani is determined to bounce back, as she is aiming to get back on track with her training, fitness and studies.
She commented: “I want to pass my exams I am currently sitting, complete my Duke of Edinburgh award with cadets, and get experience or an apprenticeship in joinery and carpentry.
“I would also like to get my boxing coach’s badge.”
But for now, Dani is just happy to get back competing after a turbulent few weeks.
She concluded: “I am delighted to be back training again and looking forward to being 100% soon. Jordan is working on a training plan to get me there. To be able to get back in the ring on Friday was just brilliant and I am excited for everything to come.”
