"Dare to dream, believe in the impossible, and fight with every ounce of your being. That’s the heart of a true champion."

 

Jo Bretag, affectionately known as JoJo, plays a pivotal role in the success and growth of Masters Boxing Australia (MBA). As the Secretary, Social Media Manager, and Brand Guardian, she has been instrumental in the development of MBA’s brand and community right from its inception. Her dedication to the sport has only deepened over the years, making her an essential figure in Australian masters boxing.

 

Jo’s journey with MBA began in 2014 at the Palm Beach Currumbin Boxing Club—the birthplace of Masters Boxing Australia—where she was a regular attendee of the 5:30 am classes. It was there she met Jack Boote, MBA President, and together they forged a strong partnership. By 2016, Jo and Jack were co-presenting major events such as the Queensland Masters Boxing Titles and the Pan Pacific Masters Games. Jo also brought her expertise to the 2018 Australian Masters Games in Adelaide, working on the Boxing South Australia organising committee.

 

In 2018, Jo moved to the scenic south coast of South Australia, but her commitment to MBA never wavered. Despite the distance, Jo has attended every MBA event, travelling far and wide to support the organisation. She has also taken charge of MBA's social media, growing its presence and engagement, particularly through the Masters Boxing Australia Inc Facebook group (formerly the Queensland Masters Boxing Titles group), which has flourished under her management to just under 10,000 members.

 

Jack Boote, MBA President, speaks highly of Jo's dedication: "JoJo has been a pivotal part of the evolution of MBA and has believed in its future from the beginning. She is the ultimate dream believer. Not only is she my right-hand go-to, but she's also my rock and best friend."

 

Mike Battaglia says on Jo “Boxing attracts those who seek loyalty, respect, and a sense of belonging. For me, Jo Bretag embodies these qualities. She's loyal to the sport, to the people in it. Every time I step into the ring, I'm scared of losing and letting people down. But when I see Jo quietly sitting ringside, she makes everything feel okay. She cares deeply, not about winning or losing, but about being present. She gives me a sense of safety, like a 'Mumma,' with unconditional love and a no-nonsense approach. She's the heart of our boxing family."

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Jo's contributions to MBA are immeasurable. Her passion, dedication, and belief in the future of Masters boxing in Australia have inspired everyone around her. Jo’s hard work behind the scenes, whether working with boxers to assist them with their masters boxing journey, managing the community's social media network, or working to deliver MBA events, has made Masters Boxing Australia the vibrant and growing community it is today. In the words of Jack Boote, "JoJo is the heart of MBA." Her vision, strength, and tireless efforts will continue to shape the future of Masters boxing for years to come. Her unwavering commitment to MBA has been the driving force behind its success. Her belief in the sport, her partnership with Jack Boote, and her dedication to every aspect of MBA make her an irreplaceable figure in the organisation’s history and future. 

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MBA is not just a boxing community—it’s a family, and Jo is at its heart. Her legacy will inspire generations of boxers to dream big and believe in the power of perseverance. Thank you, Jo, for being the ultimate dream believer.