Jodie Wilkinson

Professional Boxer

In 2022 I represented England in the Commonwealth Games held in Birmingham.

Why I chose to attend Leeds Trinity

The course at Leeds Trinity offered the chance to experience both the teaching side and the coaching side in sport. Everything I wanted was incorporated into one degree.

My best memories

I loved having the chance to meet so many different people, and people that I wouldn’t normally get a chance to speak to. Now I am lifelong friends with these people. As well as friends they have helped me a lot, as have the lecturers.

The best thing about Leeds Trinity was how supportive, attentive and responsive the staff are. They really listen and were great at keeping me on track, staying focused and determined to do well which I have really taken into my boxing.

Valuable placements

I was able to take advantage of two placements. My first one was at DeLacey Academy in Knottingley, then I went back to my old high school in Castleford.

Skills I left university with

One of the skills I left Leeds Trinity with that really helps me with my fighting career is keeping a cool head. I also learned to prioritise and organise my time effectively to meet assignment deadlines. This has also helped me when I am preparing myself for a fight.

As soon as I have a date for a fight, it is like pressing on a switch and moving into tunnel vision to train, follow a strict diet and do everything else to get me in the best shape possible.

My sporting career

I played Rugby League from the age of 6-19, representing Castleford Tigers as well as Yorkshire and England students.

I arrived at Leeds Trinity in 2013 to start my course. In 2014 I signed up to a charity boxing event just to lose weight and raise some funds for Macmillan Cancer. Three years later, in 2018 I won the English Development Championships. I went on to become the 2019 National Amateur Champion and GB Tri Nation Champion in 2019. I won the English National Championships again in 2021, becoming the first person to become a two-time champion in two different weight groups.

Commonwealth Games 2022

In 2022 I represented England in the Commonwealth Games held in Birmingham. I made it all the way to the quarter-finals and narrowly missed out on a medal.

What I would say to someone thinking of entering higher education

The first thing I would say is whatever you do don’t just follow your friends and where they are going. Be yourself and follow your own dreams.