ABOUT US
Eight Count Boxing & Performance is Geelong’s premier training facility, built for those who are serious about performance and recovery. With a purpose designed space, state-of-the-art equipment and expert coaching, we’re dedicated to helping you push your limits and achieve your goals - whether you’re training for a fight, improving fitness, or simply becoming the best version of yourself.
Our community is built on support, progress and inclusivity, where every individual is empowered to succeed.
From boxing to strength & conditioning and recovery, Eight Count is where hard work meets high performance.
BOXING. PERFORMANCE. STRENGTH. CONDITIONING. RECOVERY.
BOXING. PERFORMANCE. STRENGTH. CONDITIONING. RECOVERY.
READY TO MAKE IT COUNT?
Meet the 8:C Coaches
Tom McVilly
Founder | Coach
With almost a decade in the ring and coaching, including time on the Boxing Victoria amateur circuit, Tom brings real experience, heart, and energy to every session.
His coaching journey began when Will Tomlinson of Wildfighter saw his potential and invited him to coach. It was there Tom discovered his true passion - not just for boxing, but for helping others grow through it.
From beginners and intermediates to amateur and pro fighters, Tom has worked with athletes at every level. He’s not just focused on building better boxers, he’s driven by seeing people progress in confidence, discipline, and life.
Two years ago, he launched his own 1:1 boxing coaching business, which quickly grew into something bigger - the opening of his own gym Eight Count Boxing & Performance.
For Tom, it’s all about connection. He’s known for building genuine relationships with his clients, supporting them not just in the gym, but well beyond it.
Whether you're here to fight, train, or just move better — Tom’s focus is on progress, consistency and creating an environment where people feel supported in their goals.
Boxing Australia Accredited Coach
JACK DENAHY
GYM coach
Jack is a seasoned fighter and respected coach with more than 40 bouts under his belt. A two-time State and National Champion, he’s no stranger to hard work, discipline, and the intensity of competition.
Holding titles in both the lightweight (2018) and featherweight (2019) divisions, Jack has also represented Australia on the international stage - competing at the 2019 World Championships and the prestigious King’s Cup in Bangkok.
Driven by a deep passion for developing fighters and building confidence in anyone who steps through the ropes, Jack brings experience, energy, and authenticity to every session.
Now part of the Eight Count coaching team, you’ll find Jack doing what he does best - on the pads, in the ring, and available for one-on-one training sessions.
Jay Dalli is a highly experienced combat athlete and the resident professional fighter at our gym. With a foundational background in both Muay Thai and boxing, Jay has competed extensively at amateur and professional levels, earning a reputation for his toughness, resilience, and dedication.
He has amassed over 20 Muay Thai fights, including training and competing in Thailand, participated in caged Muay Thai bouts, and fought on the amateur boxing circuit before transitioning to professional boxing.
In his pro boxing career, Jay has faced blue-chip Australian opponents such as Cesur Afacan and Luke Gersbeck, showcasing his ability to compete at the highest national level.
Jay Dalli
gYM Coach | RESIDENT PRO BOXER
Ben Underwood
gYM Coach
Ben Underwood is a multifaceted coach at our boxing gym, bringing a rare combination of competitive experience, military discipline, and dedicated coaching.
With an impressive amateur boxing record in Australia and an unbeaten amateur MMA streak, Ben has proven himself in multiple combat sports arenas. Currently training out of top gyms such as Absolute MMA, Folima’s Fitness & Boxing, as well as Eight Count Boxing & Performance, he possesses a wealth of technical knowledge and practical insights that translate directly into effective coaching.
Additionally, Ben’s background as an ex-Australian Army infantry soldier instilled in him leadership, resilience, and a strong work ethic—qualities he now instills in everyone he trains. His accolades include a 5-1 record in Australian amateur boxing, the 2025 90 kg Club Championship, multiple interclub bouts, and a flawless 6-0 amateur MMA record.
GABBY CARDONA
WOMEN’S coach
Gabby is a dedicated coach passionate about helping women rebuild strength and confidence through intelligent, sustainable training. A mum of two and one year postpartum herself, she understands firsthand the challenges women face when returning to movement - and what real support looks like.
With over twelve years of personal training and experience across bodybuilding, strength, and body recomposition, Gabby knows what works for women and, just as importantly, what doesn’t. Currently completing her Certificate III & IV in Fitness and her Master Women’s Programming qualification, she is committed to bridging the gap between traditional strength training and female-specific performance.
At Eight Count, Gabby coaches alongside Tom and plays a key role in developing our women-only program - a progressive training experience focused on strength, endurance, and full-body recomposition. Her coaching philosophy is simple: lift to build, train smarter, and feel stronger.
ben BONAFEDE
STRENGth coach
Ben brings over a decade of coaching experience, with the past 8 years focused on guiding both professional and amateur Muay Thai and boxing athletes. With a deep respect for the sport and firsthand experience in the ring, Ben’s real passion lies in developing fighters - helping them build purpose, sharpen their skills, and perform at their best.
Known for his thoughtful, strategic approach, Ben works closely with athletes and their coaches to understand game plans, opponents, and individual strengths. Whether you’re just starting out or chasing high-level competition, Ben’s coaching brings out your best.