A new era of success for St. Sylvester’s College Boxing

St. Sylvester’s College, Kandy, has a storied legacy in Sri Lankan boxing that dates back to its first national championship win in 1953, led by captain Nihal Pelpola. Over the decades, the school has consistently produced champions and carved out a special place in the nation’s boxing history. With 2024 marking a new chapter of dominance, the present team pays homage to the trailblazers and champions of past eras – heroes who set high standards and put St. Sylvester’s on the boxing map.

The school’s first national boxing champion, Donald Labrooy, was an early inspiration, setting a precedent for excellence. Under the legendary coaching of Derek Raymond, St. Sylvester’s developed a fierce reputation, guiding talents like Malcolm Bulner, a brilliant southpaw who went on to represent Sri Lanka at the Olympics as a schoolboy – a rare achievement that underscored the school’s dedication to producing world-class boxers. Bulner later became an internationally respected referee and judge, adding to the school’s legacy. Similarly, Nimal Lewke represented Ceylon Schools and became national champion, making an indelible mark on Sri Lanka’s boxing scene.

The 1950s and 1960s were foundational decades for the school’s boxing prowess. Captained by Pelpola in 1953, St. Sylvester’s first Stubbs Shield win signalled the start of a powerful tradition. Additional wins in 1955, 1956, 1957, 1959, 1960, 1962, and 1965 established them as a force to be reckoned with, competing fiercely against top schools of the era, such as Royal, Trinity, St. Peter’s, St. Michael’s, St. Thomas’, and St. Mary’s College, Dehiwala.

The 1980s marked a golden period for St. Sylvester’s boxing. In 1982, they clinched the Stubbs Shield title under Derrick Gunasinghe and followed up with wins at the TB Jayah Championship in 1982 and 1983. Under the captaincy of champions like Ajith Gunaratne and Hemantha Weerasinghe, the school dominated national boxing tournaments. Gunaratne and Weerasinghe went on to represent Sri Lanka at the 1985 South Asian Federation (SAF) Games, bringing further acclaim to St. Sylvester’s. Weerasinghe also earned the Stubbs Shield’s Best Boxer title along with the prestigious Col. T.Y. Wright Cup in 1985, while Lionel Gunathilaka was named Best Boxer at the 1984 Stubbs Shield. Lasantha Wijesooriya was another decorated champion of the era, becoming a national titleholder and embodying the Sylvestrian spirit.

In 1985, Hemantha Weerasinghe represented Sri Lanka at the Asian Boxing Championship in Thailand, further showcasing the strength of St. Sylvester’s boxers on an international stage. The 80s was an era defined by extraordinary talent, technical skill, and sheer determination, firmly positioning St. Sylvester’s as the leader in school and national level boxing.

The 1991 SAF Games saw Sylvestrian Prasad Nugegoda win a gold medal, adding yet another feather to the school’s cap. In the following years, St. Sylvester’s secured numerous accolades, such as the LV Jayaweera Trophy in 2000, and had Duminda de Silva, under the guidance of coach Bandula Gamage, win the Best Boxer title at the TB Jayah novices meet.

The school’s success continued well into the 2000s, with notable victories in the Junior Nationals (2007) and additional wins at the LV Jayaweera and TB Jayah Championships in 2010. These accomplishments reflect the school’s enduring commitment to excellence and a legacy that has consistently produced top-tier boxers for more than seven decades.

Among these champions, Saman Gunaratne stands out as a legendary figure in Sri Lankan boxing. Now the Secretary of the Boxing Association of Sri Lanka, Gunaratne’s career serves as an inspiration for generations of Sylvestrian boxers. His achievements reflect his immense contribution to the sport.

They are winning the Stubbs Shield (1982, 1983, 1984), national boxing champion (1987–1991), winning the coveted Sir Henry Manning Challenge Cup for the Best Boxer at the National Boxing Championship (1989), Sri Lanka Boxing captain (1989–1992) and named National Sports Person of the Year (1990) and Most Famous National Sports Person (1990).

Internationally, Gunaratne represented Sri Lanka with pride, competing at the 1990 Commonwealth Games in New Zealand, winning a silver medal at the 1989 South Asian Boxing Championship, and participating in the 1990 Asian Boxing Championship. His dedication and success underscore the Sylvestrian spirit and commitment to excellence.

The recent resurgence in St. Sylvester’s boxing programme is largely credited to coach Jamitha Gayan, whose disciplined training methods and focus on skill enhancement have revitalised the team. The formation of the St. Sylvester’s College Boxing Union, led by past Sylvestrian legends Major General Prasanna Gunaratne (rtd), DIG Saman Gunaratne (rtd), and SSP Ajith Gunaratne (rtd), has also been pivotal. This alumni-backed union has provided the boxers with crucial resources, mentorship, and a sense of pride in their heritage. The St. Sylvester’s College Old Boys Association (OBA), headed by Sudesh Athauda, has further strengthened this support network, ensuring that today’s athletes have the backing needed to achieve their potential.

With international exposure, upgraded facilities, and a passionate support system, the current St. Sylvester’s team is well-positioned to maintain the school’s legacy of success. The achievements of 2024 underscore a return to form, honouring the legendary athletes and coaches who laid the groundwork and inspiring future generations to carry the torch forward. St. Sylvester’s College, with its rich history and commitment to excellence, remains a powerhouse in Sri Lankan boxing.

 Source:Daily News