Springs resident Jeanette Dyzel (68) never aimed to become a boxing coach. Her journey in the sport started as a parent supporting her son, but over time it grew into something much bigger, leading her to become the owner and head coach of the Bert Collins Boxing Club in Geduld, Springs.

Today, she stands as a respected figure in local boxing, using the sport not only to train fighters but also to foster discipline, character, and opportunities for young people in Springs.

Dyzel shared that her introduction to the sport came when her son started boxing.

“My journey in boxing began 36 years ago, when my son started training in the sport. As a parent, I became involved to support him, and that is where my interest truly started.

“Finding her place in boxing was not easy. Dyzel describes early resistance and limited support for women trying to rise in the sport.

“Female coaches were not always welcomed, and it was not easy to be accepted. You had to start as a coach before you could become a judge, so you had to work your way up step by step.”

Despite the barriers, she says her mindset kept her going. She says that her stubbornness helped her.

She adds that if someone told her that she couldn’t do something, it pushed her to prove them wrong.

A major shift in her boxing journey came after the passing of her husband Louis Dyzel, a moment that deepened her involvement in the sport.

“My nephew got me more involved in the technical side of boxing. That triggered me to want to know more and achieve more,” she said.

“It made me realise boxing was not just something around me. It was something I could truly be part of in a meaningful and long-term way.”

Beyond the technical side, Dyzel says boxing has shaped her personality and leadership style.

“The discipline of boxing has taught me self-control, patience and focus. It helps me stay calm and think clearly in difficult situations.”

She believes those values carry far beyond the ring. Dyzel says that the sport taught her to lead by example and helped her mature and stay grounded.

Several figures played key roles in her development within boxing. She credits Soon Pretorius, then president of SANABO, for treating her fairly in a male-dominated environment.

“He treated me the same as the men, no special treatment. That gave me confidence.”

She also highlights Advocate Berrington Mkhize for encouraging women in the sport, Johan Barnard for instilling discipline, and Peter Armstrong, who continues to mentor her.

“Armstrong has been a brilliant coach and mentor from the beginning up to now. He guides and advises me.”

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Dyzel’s club roots trace back to Brakpan Club and the historic Springs Club, established in 1945. Financial pressure and declining membership led to a merger in 2011, forming Bert Collins Boxing Club.

When leadership changed after the departure of Koos van den Berg and the passing of Mervyn Jennings, Dyzel stepped in, having previously been a secretary in Brakpan.

“It was about preserving the legacy and making sure boxers still had a place to train, grow and compete.”

For Dyzel, the club fills a deeper social need in Springs. She says there was a lack of structured opportunities for young people, especially those who needed discipline, guidance, and a positive environment after school. She believes the club offers more than sport.

“We provide a safe space where young people can build confidence, learn respect and stay away from negative influences.”

The club’s early days were modest. She explains that the club started small, but with consistency, discipline and respect, they grew to what they are today.

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That growth, she says, came through patience and structure rather than shortcuts. When training young fighters, Dyzel emphasises mindset and discipline.

“We teach them to believe in themselves, to respect themselves and others, and to stay disciplined in and out of the ring.”

“The club gives them stability, routine and a sense of belonging. For many, it becomes a second home.”

Dyzel highlights the difficulties of running a club, including financial pressure, a lack of equipment, and damage to facilities. Despite this, her focus remains unchanged.

“We need new boxing gear and better maintenance. Break-ins also set us back. We continue to keep the club running and support the young boxers who depend on it.”

Dyzel’s vision is a long-term and community-focused club. She believes the impact of boxing should extend beyond medals.

“I want the club to be a centre of excellence where we produce disciplined boxers and responsible young people. It is not just about building fighters. It is about building people.”