From Foster Care to Royal Encounters: Sherry Gallagher’s Knockout Journey

It's not every day you get to meet royalty!

Sherry Gallagher, however, is the exception.

The Coleraine woman recently met Prince William during his visit to Belfast. 

He attended the Simon Community Headquarters where he talked about the issues regarding the growing numbers facing homelessness. 

It’s fair to say Sherry has always been a fighter when it comes to life’s obstacles put in her way.

The teenager has already come through a lot in her young life but has always come out on top. 

So the talented boxer was the perfect choice to talk about the problems faced by those sleeping rough. 

"It was great to meet him. It was unreal," said Sherry. 

"He was really lovely. He seemed genuinely interested and moved by some of the stories. 

"He wasn't at all what I expected. He was really down to earth and made everyone feel at ease.

Sherry spent a lot of time in Foster care over the years and was invited by the Simon Community to explain exactly what people go through to the Royal visitor. 

After enduring a difficult period growing up, her life was transformed thanks to the Scorpion Boxing Academy based in Ballymoney.

“I got involved with the club a few years ago,” explained the 19-year-old. 

“During that time the club has become my family.”

Her skills didn’t go unnoticed by the coaching team at the Academy. And they wasted no time in bringing her on board. At present, she trains junior kids from 7 to 12 years old.

Sherry is already a fully qualified IABA coach. On top of that, she holds certificates in corner care and cut management etc. 

And for the second year running she has just returned from the United States where she represented Ireland in the Bridges Beyond Boxing event. 

"I had two fights, won one and lost one. 

"It was a fantastic experience. Most of the time was spent in the gym or boxing but we had time to go out and about too."

With the mental toughness she clearly possesses and her own ring skills, Sherry has already shown she is a talented boxer.

Amongst her major wins are two County Derry titles, three County Antrim titles and three Ulster titles.

She is currently on the Ulster high-performance junior squad and has boxed internationally, taking on opponents from Canada, the USA and Ukraine.

Sherry is very popular with all the kids in the gym and she helps with the everyday running and organising of activities and events.

A trip to the USA and a meeting with Prince William... and she has taken it all in her stride. 

It seems Sherry is destined to enjoy the sweet taste of success.

One thing is certain. No matter what is thrown at her she will roll with the punches!