Germiston-born Jacobus van Nieuwenhuizen recently received a Chairperson’s Lifetime Achievement Award at the Boxing South Africa (BSA) Awards at the Chief Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre.
Van Nieuwenhuizen entered the world of professional boxing in 1958 as a judge and referee.
He started boxing at the age of six but that journey was cut short as he was blind in his right eye.
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“I was heartbroken and upset because I love boxing. I stopped boxing and left it and thought I would never go back,” said Van Nieuwenhuizen.
When his sons joined boxing, he still hesitated to participate in the sport.
“I would drop my sons at the club and never enter. Their coach invited me one day and asked me why I was not being supportive.
“Being back in the club reignited my love and I was back at it and never looked back,” said Van Nieuwenhuizen.
This time his involvement was different.
He was an amateur referee and judge and became a professional judge/referee in 1988.
“Being blind in one eye was never a challenge for me and I made sure I was good at my job. I told myself I will always be fair and judge honestly,” said Van Nieuwenhuizen.
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“I went through the ranks from the lowest gloves official, up to the highest level of boxing.
“I have seen amazing boxers and even had the opportunity to see my son box and the other becoming a judge,” said Van Nieuwenhuizen.
“I’m humbled and honoured to have received this award. To be able to collect it myself and be able to wear the blazer and enjoy the achievement is amazing,” he said.
