Ballsgrove boxing champion Antonio Floody was a knockout in the  ring in the eighties and now his son, Stevan Stanic-Floody, hopes to deliver some big blows to the opposition in the colours of Drogheda United.

Stevan, who was born in Sydney, is only 19 next month but has had a very promising underage career in Australia and, just two weeks after he arrived in Ireland he impressed the United management so much in training, they signed him up with a professional contract.

A talented left winger with an eye for goal, Stevan says it’s a dream come true to play for his dad’s hometown club.

“I’m buzzing at the moment. I’ve come here to play football and it’s great to get a chance with Drogheda,” he stated.

Living in Ballsgrove, he says he has been welcomed with “open arms” by the club and wants to make an impression.

“When I decided to leave Australia to folllow my career, Ireland and Drogheda was my first step. I haven’t even managed to meet many of my cousins yet,” he added.

Floody, whose sister, Mary, is a professional in Australia and a member of the national junior team, said: “Dad encouraged us to go into football, rather than boxing, and I know he was a great boxer, but he never says much about it.”

Antonio made his Irish debut in the ring in June 1984, winning a gold medal at the Pan Celtic Games. Months earlier, the Holy Family BC man won his first Irish title after a number of previous cruel defeats.
He went on to be a real force in the game at top amateur level.

“We are delighted to get Stevan and hope to see him blossom in the months ahead,” manager Kevin Doherty stated.