D.G. Srilal Gomes
Few personalities in Sri Lankan boxing have contributed across as many decades, institutions, and roles as Dimingu Gomesge Srilal Gomes. From his early days as a champion boxer to his distinguished career as a coach, trainer, judge, and mentor, Gomes has served the sport with unwavering dedication for nearly five decades. His legacy continues to inspire boxers, coaches, and officials across the island.
Srilal Gomes began shaping his remarkable journey at Central College, Dehiwala, where he captained the boxing team in 1974 and emerged as the Best Boxer at the prestigious Stubs Shield Meet the same year. His early achievements quickly elevated him into national prominence:
- Francis Jayawardena Memorial Meet-Winner & Best Boxer (1975)
- Albert Pereira Memorial Meet – Winner & Best Boxer (1977)
- Sri Lanka Air Force Inter Wing Meet Best Boxer (1979)
Representing the Sri Lanka Air Force, Gomes dominated the national boxing scene from 1979 to 1983, eaming a reputation as one of the most technically sound and fearless competitors of his time.
His outstanding competitive record includes:
- National Boxing Champion-1980, 1981, 1982
- Layton Cup Champion1981, 1982, 1983
- Clifford Cup Champion 1981, 1982
- Best Boxer – Defence Services Meet, 1981
- Defence Services Winner 1979, 1980, 1981, 1982
- Sri Lanka Air Force Colours-1980, 1981, 1982, 1983
- Sri Lanka Air Force Best Boxer-1980, 1981, 1982
- Most Outstanding Sportsman of the Year (Sri Lanka Air Force) – 1980
- Holder of the Prestigious Vartharasa Trophy – Sri Lanka Air Force
His international representation strengthened Sri Lanka’s profile in the region.
- Represented Sri Lanka at the Sakurabad International Boxing Championship, India (1983)
- Member of the Sri Lanka President’s Team touring India, Nepal, Bhutan, and Pakistan (1981-1983)
After retiring from active competition, Srilal Gomes seamlessly transitioned into coaching. a field in which he has sustained national level service for over four decades.
- Boxing Coach – Amateur Boxing Association of Sri Lanka (1985-Present)
- Member – Boxing Judges & Referees Association of Sri Lanka (1995-Present)
- Boxing Coach – YMCA Colombo (2022-Present)
- Head Boxing Coach & PT Instructor -Nalanda College, Colombo (1992-2012)
- Boxing Coach & Instructor-St. John’s College, Nugegoda (1986-1987)
- Head Boxing Coach – Sri Lanka Air Force, Katunayake
- Head Coach-Scientific Technique & Power Boxing Club, Dehiwala
- Boxing Coach & Instructor-Central College, Dehiwala
Throughout his coaching journey, he has produced national champions, mentored aspiring youths, and represented Sri Lanka in various international training programs