AXEDALE twins Connor and Vaughn Stamm are rapt about the opportunity to fight close to home at this Saturday night's boxing tournament at Eaglehawk's Truscott Reserve.
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The bantamweight champions, national and state respectively, have put in many hours training at the Kangaroo Flat-based Pianto Boxing Academy.
"Win, lose or draw, it's a great opportunity. The main goal is to keep getting better," Connor said.
Long-time trainer and promoter Frank Pianto said the Stamms face a big challenge against opponents from Queensland.
Vaughn Stamm will take on Bryce Schafer.
Connor Stamm is opposed to Nick De Marchi.
"They are up against quality opponents, but are more than capable of doing well," Pianto said of the twins' prospects.
Vaughn said training since last year's national titles had focused a lot on improving his jab.
Training is often six nights a week to which the twins' mum, Janet does the driving.
"Boxing is something we both really enjoy," Vaughn said.
For Connor a goal is to increase speed of hands and feet.
"Fast hands are important, not just to score points, but also defend."
The 15-year-olds started training at Pianto's when they were 11.
After a year's break they returned to work on their skills about a year ago.
Their boxing pursuit is strongly supported by their dad, Michael.
Saturday night's card at the Murdock Street venue near California Gully will feature about 15 bouts - either boxing or Muay Thai kickboxing.
"We have had great support from boxers in Queensland, New South Wales and across Victoria," Pianto said.
A highlight will be the return of Damien Lock, best known for his football skills, to the boxing ring.
Lock is trained by Scott Tuddenham.
The night is sponsored by Bendigo Concrete Specialists, HK Clothing and Bossman Combat Sports.
Tickets to the tournament are $20. Doors open at 5pm.
Phone 0401 306 308 to book tables of 10 for $350.
