To see one of your children become a professional sportsperson would be a dream for many – but what about two?
Meet the Bevan brothers Taylor – an unbeaten pro boxer, signed with fight promoter Eddie Hearn – and Owen, a footballer at Premier League side AFC Bournemouth.
Both are on the verge of the big-time – 24-year-old Taylor labelled a “future world champion” and Owen, 21, under contract with the top-flight Cherries until 2028.
And they both credit their success to father Lester, a former boxer himself, who is now a coach at Poseidon Amateur Boxing Club in Hedge End, Southampton.
“I think our motivation comes from our dad – he’s encouraged us to follow our dreams and we have both done that,” Owen told BBC Sport.
“He pushed us when we were younger and made us work hard. Looking back I’m grateful for it now because it has helped shape our mentality.”
The siblings grew up in Hampshire but have both represented Wales owing to their mother’s Welsh heritage.
Owen has played for Wales’ youth sides and made five appearances for the under-21s.
Taylor, meanwhile, represented Wales at the 2022 Commonwealth Games, winning a silver medal – but jokes it’s his attitude not his ability that he gets from his dad.
“He didn’t box at the highest level,” Taylor smiled.
“I’ve seen a few videos of his fights and I can’t learn much from them, but he’s been in the ring and knows the feelings that come with it. He taught me the foundations though and emphasised fitness.
“Previously I’ve beaten people who have boxed at a higher level than me because of my fitness and my ability to push myself when in there.”
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