After leaving worn-torn Afghanistan for Launceston, Ali Akbargawhari has found his calling as one of the state's up-and-coming boxing talents.
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The 17-year-old was born in Afghanistan, before coming to Australia via Iran.
"I've found living here to be pretty good, and safe," Akbargawhari said.
The Newstead College student's uncle is a boxing coach, while his brother was an avid kick-boxer, winning medals in various competitions in Iran.
"I just wanted to follow in their footsteps - to reach their level of success," Akbargawhari said.
"I wanted to get into kick-boxing, but a friend of mine took me to the gym to box.
"I trained for two days and said 'this sport is way better and I love it'.
"From there, I started getting into it more seriously."
ELSEWHERE IN SPORT:
Akbargawhari has already taken part in a number of state competitions, and is slated to represent Tasmania later this year at nationals.
State and Launceston coach Graeme George even went as far as to say the teenager was as good as Brooks High School Olympian Daniel Geale was at his age.
"I'm getting a lot better, everyday I'm learning things and I've still got a lot to learn," Akbargawhari said.
"But it's really good - it's all about practice and training."
As well as his familial influence, Akbargawhari said being able to see the physical results in training was a huge drawcard for him.
"When you get into the ring for the first time, you can't do much," he said.
"But when you go in for a second time into the ring, you do a lot more.
"People love that - you know the training you're doing is working.
"Every time you go in, every time you get better."
As for getting into the national spotlight, the light-weight boxer said he plans to keep training and the results will come.
"The things that I'm doing now - I'll just keep training, improving and leveling up," Akbargawhari said.
Do you know someone who is contributing to Northern Tasmanian sport, whether through participating or assisting?
The Examiner's Junior Sports Awards, sponsored by Woolworths, provide acknowledgement of accomplishments by players, coaches, volunteers, teams and clubs across the region.
Nominations are open from Wednesday, April 14, and will close at midnight on October 4.
Entries must include a photograph of the entrant.
Harry Murtough
Born and raised in Launceston. BA of journalism from Monash University. Sports reporter covering basketball, netball and cricket.
Born and raised in Launceston. BA of journalism from Monash University. Sports reporter covering basketball, netball and cricket.
