Ten days after the conclusion of the National Youth Games, platinumnewsng.com brings you the inspiring story of the Udeh family, where the sport of boxing is more than just a passion—it’s a legacy handed down from father to son.
The 7th NYG in Asaba allowed us to meet Samuel Udeh, a retired boxer from Kaduna with a deep love for the sweet science of boxing.
Today, he trains his 14-year-old son, who proudly represents Kaduna in the boxing ring. As platinumnewsng.com sat down with Samuel Udeh, he shared his hopes, dreams, and the journey they are embarking on together.
“My name is Samuel Udeh from Kaduna, and this is my son who is representing Kaduna in boxing,” Samuel begins. His voice carries the pride of a father who is not just watching from the sidelines but actively shaping a family’s legacy. “I’m proud of my son as his trainer, and I hope he makes me happy.”
For Samuel, the goal is clear: to see his son surpass his modest achievements in the sport. It’s a prayer of fathers everywhere, the desire to see their children reach greater heights. “The target is for him to surpass my little achievement in the game, which is the prayer of every father for his son, and we are working towards it.”
Samuel’s journey in boxing began during his secondary school days. He then made a move to Abuja, where he honed his skills under the tutelage of the Late Coach Martins. Years later, he transitioned to professional boxing before eventually retiring back in Kaduna.
When asked about any resistance from his wife regarding their son following in his footsteps, Samuel’s eyes reflect a sense of family unity. “Well, there was never any resistance from my wife. This is my last child, the eldest, and ladies are not interested,” he chuckled warmly.
The legacy of boxing, it seems, was meant to be passed down through generations in the Udeh family.
Samuel’s dedication to his son’s training began early, a commitment that shows belief in his child’s potential. “I started training him when he was just 7 years old,” Samuel reveals. In Asaba, his son aged 14, stood on the cusp of a promising boxing career.
It is clear that the Udeh family’s story is not just about boxing; it’s about the bond between a father and his child, the passing down of values, and the pursuit of dreams.
With each training session, Samuel Udeh and his son build a legacy that promises to inspire generations to come.