Hill, a 16-years-old student in year 11 at Dubbo College, took out the title during the recent school holidays when he defeated Maitland’s Logan Woodward during a Pound for Pound fight night at the Garden Hotel.

The talented boxer, who won the bout in a four by two-minute round clean sweep, trains at Dubbo’s Pound for Pound gym under leading mentor Robert ‘Gummy’ Toomey and Graham Wallace.

Hill said he started boxing three years ago but had only become serious about the training 14 months ago.

“I first went to the gym with my dad and I really liked it so I now train before and after school as well as on weekends,” he said.

“My first fight was in March 2016 – it was an exhibition bout and I really enjoyed winning.

“Since then I’ve developed a training regime that includes a lot of running, as well as calisthenics and strength training.

“I also spar against other boys and do a lot of pad work with both ‘Gummy’ and Graham.”

Hill remains undefeated at this point, having already fought seven fights and three exhibition bouts. He will be looking to strengthen that record this weekend when he travels to Albury for his next encounter, and again at Bondi on May 13.

Toomey said Hill was proving to be a very committed athlete.

“Often I get kids here who really enjoy the training but when it comes to sparring against others it can really sort out those who are keen on the competition and those who are not,” he said.

“John really likes the sparring and he has done well in all his fights up to this point.

“The State title was a big accomplishment and I am now working to line him up some good fights in the future.

“In the short-term we’ll be working towards the National Novice Titles, which will take place at the Woy Woy Leagues Club in July.”

Hill said he had benefited considerably from his training efforts and was enjoying the healthy lifestyle.

“I need to be highly disciplined and that has impacted on a range of issues from getting out of bed in the morning to staying alert at school,” he said.

“As well as my boxing training I attend Dubbo College Clontarf rugby league training two mornings a week and that really adds some variety to my sport.”