Boxing coach Billy Walsh set to leave Ireland’s High Performance unit for US role
Billy Walsh is expected to leave his current role as head coach with Ireland’s High Performance programme after the Irish Amateur Boxing Association (IABA) failed to agree a new contract deal with him.
He has been headhunted by USA Boxing, who want him to take charge of the American women’s boxing programme in the lead up to the 2016 Olympics.
The role, which would see Walsh based in Colorado, comes with a salary far in excess of what Walsh currently earns, according to a report in today’s Irish Independent.
Walsh reportedly told the IABA and the Irish Sports Council the deal he was being offered in February and entered negotiations with them to work out a new package.
In addition to his salary, Walsh requested changes to how the programme was run and it is understood that this is the issue that caused a breakdown in the talks.
Walsh has overseen Irish boxing through a period of huge success, with seven Olympic medals won during his tenure and many more at European and World Championships level.
The Irish Sports Council were keen to keep him in the role and had agreed to pay his new salary, but the IABA failed to agree to the changes Walsh requested.
Walsh’s departure would be a body blow to the Irish boxers currently preparing for next year’s Olympic Games in Rio.
