Nick Devlin, a 25-year-old shop assistant at Aldi in East Kilbride, has been selected to box for Team Scotland at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. The event will take place at the Hydro from July 23 to August 2, with Devlin competing in the 60kg lightweight division.
Flexible work schedule supports training
Devlin has worked at the supermarket on Avon Drive for five years. His shift pattern of two long days and one shorter shift each week has allowed him to maintain an intensive training schedule of up to three sessions per day. He said: “The flexibility at Aldi has been brilliant. It's kept me there for five years which – with the commitment I have to make to the sport – says a lot.”
He added: “It's a really good team and a great atmosphere to work in, and the longer I'm there, the more the customers get to know me and know about my boxing. Everyone has been really encouraging.” Devlin noted that the active nature of his job helps him stay fit between training sessions: “The good thing about the day job is it's very active. I'm on my feet a lot unpacking deliveries or changing stock around, so it keeps the calories burning between training sessions, which for me, is ideal.”
Overcoming a torn ACL
Devlin’s path to the Commonwealth Games was nearly derailed by a torn ACL just a year before his qualifying campaign. He received support from Sportscotland during his recovery and returned to competition to earn the points needed to secure his place on the team. He said: “It takes a lot of hard work. I've always had the talent, but there's been a lot of loss and disappointment along the way. After each knockback, I always came back stronger, and I'm glad I stuck with it. There was a lot of pressure knowing Commonwealth qualification was on the radar, especially coming back from the ACL injury.”
Boxing career and inspiration
Devlin has been boxing since the age of seven, inspired by his father, an ex-amateur boxer, and his grandfather, who boxed during his time in the armed forces. He also credits countless viewings of the film Rocky for motivating him. He has been crowned Scottish champion five times and has represented Scotland at European and World level, most recently at the end of 2025.
Looking ahead to Glasgow 2026
Devlin described the Commonwealth Games as his biggest competition yet: “In terms of multi-sport, this is my biggest competition yet. I can only imagine what winning gold would feel like. Having my family and friends there cheering me on will mean everything. I know how good I am, and I know what I can do.” He also plans to turn professional after the Games: “I'm hoping to wait it out and turn professional once Glasgow 2026 is done.”
Tom Brearey, Aldi Scotland regional managing director, said: “Nick has the full support of his Aldi Scotland colleagues. He has already achieved so much in his boxing career, but to showcase on his hometown at such a prestigious tournament is something truly amazing.”
