Kurt Ernest (13 May 1929 - 22 Feb 2015)

Kurt Ernest—Coaching Background

1970 Qualified as ABA Advanced Coach at Crystal Palace, perhaps the first coach to do so in Western Counties. Worked with National Squads and England teams in preparation for International events.

1974 Appointed first ever Regional Coach for Western Counties, a role that involved Coach Education besides the development of the most talented boxers in the Association.

1979 Appointed one of only 2 Staff Coaches in the country.

1980 Was part of the ABA of England Coaching Team at their Multi Nations Tournament at Wembley to celebrate 100 years of Amateur Boxing.

1982 Commonwealth Games Brisbane Australia when every boxer in the England team won a medal.

Headed up Centre of Excellence for Western Counties Boxers.

1986 Commonwealth Games Edinburgh, Scotland when every boxer in the England team won a medal.

1988 Canada Cup Multi Nations before final selection of 1988 GB Olympic Team.

1990 Commonwealth Games Auckland New Zealand.

There would be many other Dual International and Multi Nation Tournaments both at England and Young level that Kurt would be involved with besides the important role he played with his Boxing Club in Exeter - Ian Irwin - Former National Coach

Kurt was one of the nicest people I have known. It was a privilege to have had him in the England and GB set-ups, not only as an outstanding coach, but as a friend. He was a lovely man in every way.

I am sending a copy of Ian Irwin`s summary of Kurt`s coaching career. What it does not show is the numerous young men who benefitted from Kurt`s guidance in being better people from the example he set them and the role model he gave.

Kurt loved his boxing and the people in boxing loved him. He was truly a great man. - Kevin Hickey
Former National Coach, GB Performance Director

"I first met Kurt when I boxed for Young England (under 19 squad) down at Crystal Palace in the mid 80's. I respected him from day one as a coach and he help improve my style tremendously. I will always remember his beaming smile at the end of the fight when I came back to the corner, boxing for England in the Light Middleweight final at the 1990 Commonwealth Games in Auckland New Zealand, where we won the gold. He became someone I really admired and looked up to and I will never forget him. R.I.P My friend Kurt X" - Richie Woodhall former WBC World Super Middleweight Champion

I cannot express how proud I am to be your daughter. You had the heart of a lion and would always strive to do the right thing no matter what! I have been so privileged to part of our amazing family that you and mum created and so lucky to have been able to witness the love that you and mum shared...I love you to the moon and back Dad and I will miss you far more than words can say, but I'll carry you in my heart forever.
Love from Denise xxxx

My dear friend Kurt so encouraging when I had to give up boxing at 16.

Coached me through level 1 and 2 and 24 years later I am an England talent coach.

All not possible without Kurt.

RIP

So sad to be saying goodbye to my lovely uncle Kurt. He always had a twinkle in his eye and a cheeky grin. I have very happy memories of him from childhood visits to Exeter, and Martin and I enjoyed his occasional visits to see us in Wimbledon when he was passing through (usually on his way to Crystal Palace for a boxing event). We have particularly fond memories of his and Terry's visit to sort out our electrics - we didn't find out till later about him setting fire to the floorboard!

Grandad was such an amazing role model & inspiration to me. I am so, so proud of him, and how he managed to be so much to so many people. He was so humble, he never realised how much of a Legend he was, as he just did it for the love of boxing, no greed or fame. I looked upto him when growing up, and even more as an adult. His boxing life was great, but he was such a fantastic family man also, so devoted to my Nan, and all his kids, us grandchildren and great grandchildren. I'm so happy that he met my children, and I can't wait to tell them all about him when they're older, and let them be inspired about their Great Grandad. His face would light up when ever he saw them. I will miss him so much, and never forget how kind and special he was. R.I.P Grandad Boy'o'

When getting to the top of a your chosen sport there are a number of silent people who have worked behind the scenes to get you there. I understand Kurt helped me in my non professional day for this I thank him. My thoughts are with his family at this time
regards
FB

I'm so proud to have such a wonderful dad! You have been a real inspiration with your love of our family and your boxing. Love you forever dad xxx

I feel so very proud of my wonderful dad! He was an inspiration to so many people and I have been touched by all the stories I have been hearing about him. Boxing and family was his life and he lived such an amazing full life. I remember dad as being so strong, protective, funny, loving, kind, caring and he would do anything to help anyone. I also remember the devotion between my mum and dad and that will stay with me forever! Love you dad xxx

A very dear and much loved brother-in-law - a joy to be with and an inspiration to us all xx

A truly inspirational and supportive man.

A great boxing coach and educator dedicated to the West of England's young boxers.

RIP Kurt