Boxing Australia is in turmoil after chief executive Dinah Glykidis resigned, following the departure of national integrity manager Kelly Loakes and the absence of high-performance manager Jonathan Hall. The organization also remains without a head coach after Santiago Nieva stepped down in December 2024.
Staff Departures and Allegations
Hall is on leave, replaced by Jamie Pittman, the former head coach who was removed from the Paris Olympics after admitting to “disgusting” sexual misconduct involving female boxers. Pittman also served a six-month suspension.
Olympic boxer Marissa Williamson Pohlman has publicly criticized Boxing Australia, claiming her life has been “ruined” for speaking out about Pittman. She alleged she was “bullied, re-victimised and discriminated against,” though Boxing Australia denies this.
Commonwealth Games Selection Controversy
The drama unfolds weeks before the Commonwealth Games, starting July 23. Williamson Pohlman stated, “Please stop using my f****** face and my name to promote the Commonwealth Games, because I am not going ... you robbed me of that opportunity.”
Boxing Australia “categorically” rejected her claim that non-selection was linked to her complaints. In a statement, it noted she competed at the 2025 Australian Boxing Championships in Brisbane, losing to Eva Bryson. As runner-up, she was allowed to enter the selection event but chose not to attend, failing eligibility requirements.
Integrity Matters and Resignations
Boxing Australia said the Pittman matter “was properly investigated” and the sanction served. Loakes resigned due to a “lack of support” and misalignment with her professional values, stating, “The decision to resign was not made lightly... The lack of support I experienced, combined with the demands of managing complex integrity matters, had a significant impact on my wellbeing.”
Glykidis resigned on Friday, with Boxing Australia president Phillip Goodes thanking her for her contribution. Glykidis declined to comment on the culture, stating she was proud of achievements during her tenure.
