Sport builds more than fitness – it strengthens mental resilience, boosts confidence, and increases social connection. For over a century, boxing in the RAF has played a fundamental role in helping instil discipline and resilience in serving personnel and has seen significant growth in recent years.
Sitting at the heart of that growth is the RAF Boxing Association (RAFBA), creating opportunities for everyone from first-time boxers to elite competitors, running an annual calendar of events that deliver challenge, competition, and community at every level.
The RAFBA proudly provides a safe environment to develop skills, build camaraderie, and compete across the services. Since the launch of the Lord Wakefield’s Championships in 1919 and the first Inter-Service tournament in 1922, it has built a rich history of dedication and determination that continues to deliver exceptional results today.
The RAF Central Fund helps personnel reach their full potential through sport and physical activity. Our grant programmes empower our beneficiaries to thrive across a range of disciplines.
Since 2024, we have invested over £115,000 to upgrade and expand boxing facilities across stations, including Coningsby, Leeming, Lossiemouth, Odiham and Waddington – with new projects underway at Northolt and Wittering, making the sport more accessible than ever.
The Central Fund plays a critical role in enabling these capabilities with additional support from donors and the Royal Air Forces Association. Having recently secured their first sponsorship with Capita, 2026 is set to be another year of growth, development, and success for RAFBA.
As the exciting 2025 season wraps up, RAF Boxing has delivered an array of thrilling fixtures, culminating in the Lord Wakefield’s Boxing Championship at RAF Cranwell, with RAF Odiham taking the overall Unit Trophy.
In the coming weeks, we’ll be sharing the personal journeys of Sgt Ben Baily, Cpl Arran Devine, Sgt Cameron Lewis, and Cpl Jennifer Sabine – four RAFBA members whose stories demonstrate significant growth through the power of sport.
If you’re interested in RAF Boxing, connect with the team on Instagram or get in touch for more information.
Episode 1: Sgt Ben Baily – Rebuilding Round by Round – RAF Central Fund
Episode 2: Cpl Arran Devine – Grassroots Grit to Glory – RAF Central Fund
Episode 3: Sgt Cameron Lewis – Fighting Fit to Serve and Win – RAF Central Fund
Episode 4: Cpl Jennifer Sabine – Packing a Punch for Women in Sport – RAF Central Fund
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RAF Central Fund launches 2025 Impact Report
21st May 2026
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