WCB: "BEING A GOOD BOXER, BECOMING A PERSON OF HONOR" (EDITORIAL)

Naomi Fischer-Rasmussen, 28, the first female to box for
Australia at an Olympic Games.

Becoming an accomplished boxer is not easy -- even on an amateur status level.  You’ll need commitment, persistence and a non-stop competitive drive if you want to learn the art of the pugilists. You have to put in the time. The great ones all paid a heavy personal price and let nothing stand in their way. Ali, Dempsey, Lewis (both Joe and Lennox), De La Hoya, Hopkins, Mayweather, Tyson and many more -- all earned their place as "Kings of the Ring" through hard work and determination. There are many valuable life-lessions in their stories.

 

But what about you?  The good news for you is that self-confidence, the ability to defend yourself and others, and a deep appreciation of the sport are as worthy goals as trying to become a "world champ". Being fit and alert, learning something new, and challenging yourself, are the only scale you should concern yourself with -- not the empty yearnings of wanting to be a "superstar" in the ring.  If you are doing it "for the money", you should stop before you begin.  That kind of ego (as opposed to confidence) and desperation can get you seriously hurt.

Being a "World Champion Boxer" doesn't necessarily mean "the greatest fighter of all time", although you may actually be that talented.  It means living to your full potential, understanding the profound philosophical and intellectual aspects of the sport, and being a well-rounded person, inside the ring and outside.

Winners are simply human and can get tired, but what sets them apart is that they never give up on their goals.  One way or another, they are a part of something larger than themselves.  They build on assets, increase stamina, and envision themselves as successful. Also, all the greats would tell you in any field, if you are not having fun, don't do it.  You have to be excited about what you do or your own boredom will undermine your achievements. "Greatness" comes from inner strength.  For these reasons and more, I encourage women of all ages to become involved in boxing.

With the right training, YOU can experience greatness by expressing your skills and talents through the wonderful sport of boxing.

-- Junior Vazquez, Personal Boxing Trainer