Capturing the World Boxing Foundation International heavyweight crown earned Whitehead the August award in The Advertiser WIN Television Sports Star of the Year award.

The 38-year-old is a multiple monthly winner in the awards, which are proudly sponsored by RegionalOne Credit Union.

Whitehead rated his victory against Solomon Haumano for the WBF title as the best of his career, which has lasted more than 60 bouts in the amateur, and now professional ranks.

After a break of almost 2sfr1/2 years from the sport, Whitehead linked up with the Echuca-based Barry Quinlan and Chris Burns at Justice Boxing.

“The work they have put in is sensational.

“There have been a few changes to the way I train, but I believe the area I have improved most is mental toughness.’’

Whitehead said it was a chance meeting when on holiday with family at Echuca during Christmas-New Year which led to linking up with Justice Boxing.

“Although I wasn’t boxing, I still worked on fitness and doing some sparring here and there.

“I had a chat to Barry and Chris about some training, and it wasn’t long before I was competing again.’’

A triple winner of the national amateur super heavyweight crown, Whitehead’s professional record stands at four-nil.

“The major goal is to challenge John Hopoate (the reigning champion) for the Australian title.

“I will bide my time, keep working hard, and focus on the next contest which is likely to be near the end of October.’’

Whitehead’s greatest supporters are his wife Rhonda and daughters Darcie and Tia.

He travels to Echuca for training three times a week.

“I have achieved a lot of goals so far, and want to achieve more.’’Another star from the Justice Boxing team, Eaglehawk’s Ben Costello, will fight in Brisbane this Friday night against Terry Lambert.

The middleweight bout of six three-minute rounds will be shown on FoxSports.