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Thursday Jun 14, 2018
During the coming months, we’ll be highlighting our fighters in training for the upcoming Rock ‘N Rumble VII in Boston on May 18th. They’ve committed to four months of fundraising and training in preparation to get in the ring and literally fight for a cure. Whether their mom is battling, their father has passed or their friend has put up a victory against the disease – they’ve all got a story to tell and they’ve all got a reason to fight. Below you’ll hear from Emily Jones, fighting out of EverbodyFights in South Boston.
Where are you from?
Harvard, MA a small town about 45 mins outside of Boston.
Where’d you go to college?
Undergrad at Wellesley College, grad school (Masters in Marine Science) at Northeastern…been in the Boston area all my life.
Did you play any sports growing up?
I played soccer all growing up and still play whenever I get the chance. My first semester in college I joined the rugby team and never looked back. I’ve played rugby every single season, fall and spring, since 2003. After I graduated from college I joined the Beantown Rugby Football Club, a top-level women’s rugby team based in Boston. I have played with Beantown for the last 10 years. Over the years I have also participated in National Team training camps and tryouts.
What do you do for work?
I’m an Associate Scientist at the New England Aquarium. Most people don’t know that there is more to the Aquarium than just the animals you see on exhibit; we also have a research department that does cutting edge marine research and conservation. My research program focuses on sharks and other fishes. We primarily study fisheries interactions with these species. (For example, we ask questions like: when a shark is accidentally caught and then released, what are its chances of survival? Are there ways to modify fishing practices to improve its chances of survival?) Our research is field-based and we partner with commercial or recreational fishermen to conduct our studies and collect data. This means that during the field season I get to spend a lot of time on boats on the ocean. I love my job!
Why boxing? Did you ever picture yourself fighting?
I began boxing casually as a way to mix up my rugby training a little bit—hitting a bag is way more fun than sprint workouts or weight lifting. But in the back of my mind, I’ve always wanted to fight. How much can you really know about yourself if you’ve never been in a fight? I knew I wanted to fight before I decided to do Haymakers. I wanted to fight because I wanted to learn something about myself. After years of team sports, I wanted to do something where 100% of the accountability was on my shoulders. If I failed it would be entirely on me and if I succeeded it would be because I got myself there. I wanted to pour my entire focus and effort into something and see what I could get out of it.
Why on earth did you sign up to fight??
In the end, taking into account the answers to the questions above and the below, it was a no brainer! I feel so incredibly fortunate to have the opportunity to participate in H4H. I believe this is going to be a transformative experience and I’ve loved every second of it so far. It’s been a rollercoaster—one day I feel like I’m going to be okay at this sport and then the next I feel completely hopeless at it—but I’m enjoying the ride and I relish both the ups and the downs in equal measure. I am doing this in part to feel challenged and frustrated and uncomfortable. I’ve never left the gym upset or disappointed.
You’re stepping in the ring to literally fight for a cure - where are you drawing your inspiration from? How has cancer affected you?
Like everyone else, I’ve watched friends and family members fight the disease over the years. However, in December, my uncle was diagnosed with multiple myeloma. When I found out, I immediately decided that I wanted to do Haymakers. My uncle, Dr. Philippe Gros, is a brilliant geneticist and biochemist and a leading cancer researcher. His groundbreaking work has helped advance our knowledge of the disease and its treatments. He has literally worked his entire life to fight cancer for others and now he has to fight for himself. I want to help champion the fight against cancer for him the way that he has championed the fight against cancer for so many others. He inspires me and he is the reason I am fighting. I want to show support for him and for my family.
What is going to be the most difficult thing to give up during your training? (beer, cheeseburgers, time spent watching TV?)
The biggest challenge so far has been getting myself to bed at a reasonable hour so I can get enough sleep!
When you’re not throwing punches and training -- what other hobbies/interests do you have?
My main sport is still rugby. I also play soccer when I can and I really love indoor rock climbing. Climbing is my off-day activity every Sunday!
The fight actually falls right in the middle of the competitive rugby season, so I’ll be juggling boxing training with playing rugby and captaining the team…hopefully to a National Championship. Here’s hoping I don’t accidentally punch someone on the field or tackle someone in the ring!
I actually think the two sports complement each other nicely. I think rugby makes me a good fighter because I’m aggressive and unafraid of contact and the boxing training has made me a better rugby player through improved quickness and agility. The drawback of my rugby background is that the years of smashing headfirst into contact appear to have quelled any instinct to move my head out of the way when punched repeatedly. Haha! I really need to work on my head movement!
Who do you think is the most excited to watch you get punched in the face come fight night?
My rugby teammates are pretty excited, I think. Full contact practices can be intense and we hit (tackle) each other a lot…I think they’re excited to see someone else beat me up for a change. They are incredibly supportive of the whole thing. I wish they could be there on fight night, but we have practice! On the flip side, considering they’ve watched me get run over on the rugby field for the last 13 years, my parents have surprised me by being very nervous about the whole boxing thing.
Be sure to check out her fundraising page here! Best of luck, Emily!
Wednesday May 29, 2024
Are you ready to step into the ring and make a real impact? Haymakers for Hope's Belles of the Brawl offers an incredible opportunity for women to lace up their gloves, throw some punches, and fight for a cause that hits close to home. This unique charity boxing event not only supports cancer research, patient care, awareness and survivorship but also provides participants with a chance to experience personal growth, form lasting connections, and achieve peak physical fitness. If you're looking for a challenge that's as rewarding as it is demanding, here are five knockout reasons why signing up for Belles of the Brawl could be one of the best decisions you ever make. 1. Knockout CancerBy participating in Belles of the Brawl, you directly support cancer research and care. The funds raised from these boxing events go to various cancer-related charities, making a significant impact in the fight against cancer. 2. Fight for Your FutureTraining for a boxing match is a rigorous and transformative process. It demands physical and mental strength, resilience, and dedication. Participants often experience immense personal growth, gaining confidence, discipline, and a sense of accomplishment. 3. Join a Knockout CrewJoining Belles of the Brawl means becoming part of a supportive community of women who are all working towards the same goal. The camaraderie among participants fosters lasting friendships and a strong support network. 4. Get Fit, Hit HardBoxing training provides a full-body workout, improving cardiovascular health, strength, endurance, and agility. Participants often report significant improvements in their physical fitness, weight management, and overall well-being. 5. Unforgettable MemoriesCompeting in a boxing match is a unique and exhilarating experience that few people undertake. It offers a chance to step out of your comfort zone, face new challenges, and create lasting memories. The event itself is a celebration of hard work, dedication, and the collective effort to make a difference. Apply now for your chance to become a Belle of the Brawl!
Read more ›Wednesday Apr 24, 2024
In a world often marred by adversity, it’s heartening to witness individuals stepping into the ring not just to battle opponents, but to take a swing at something far bigger and more formidable: cancer. On Wednesday, April 24th, at The Fillmore Philadelphia, the stage is set for the 2nd Annual Liberty Bell Brawl, hosted by Haymakers for Hope. This event is not merely about boxing; it’s a poignant display of resilience, compassion, and a collective determination to knock out cancer. For each of the 24 fighters, this event holds a deeply personal significance. Cancer, with its pervasive reach, has touched their lives in profound ways. As they lace up their gloves and step under the bright lights of the ring, they carry with them the memories, struggles, and triumphs of their loved ones who have faced this relentless foe. Luke Gambale, a fighter who himself battled Stage IIIB cancer, shares his journey of resilience and hope, emphasizing the importance of raising awareness and funds to support others in their fight against the disease. He reflects, “Cancer unfortunately touches so many people and their loved ones and has become a big part of my life over the last few years. Closing in on year 2 of 'No Evidence of Disease,' I can think of no better way to celebrate while raising money and awareness about cancer than stepping into the ring.” Ethan Wergelis-Isaacson, driven by a lifelong commitment to healthcare impact, sees Haymakers for Hope as the next step in his journey to eradicate cancer. He states, “Haymakers for Hope is giving me the opportunity to step into the ring and fight for the eradication of this disease. We've all been impacted in our personal lives and communities by cancer, so I hope you join [us] in our collective fight to knock out cancer once and for all.” For George Balatsinos, the memory of his father’s battle with Mesothelioma fuels his resolve to step into the ring and honor his legacy. His poignant tribute underscores the deeply personal nature of this fight against cancer. Donald Lyons, fighting in memory of his father and niece, shares the heartbreaking stories that have shaped his decision to participate in this event. He says, “I will be fighting in honor of my father, James Wilson (1936 -2002) and niece, Simone Lyons (1993-1995) and everyone who has battled with or lost a loved one to cancer.” Joey Davanzo draws strength from his wife’s courageous battle with cancer, highlighting the profound impact of witnessing a loved one confront adversity with grace and determination. He explains, “Today, I am overjoyed to share that my wife is cancer-free. This experience has become my driving force, propelling me to participate in this event.” Tyler Gilger’s decision to step into the ring is driven by a desire to celebrate the victories of his family members against cancer. His message of resilience and determination echoes the sentiment of hope that unites all the fighters in their mission. David Zhao’s rallying cry for hope, healing, and unity encapsulates the collective spirit of the fighters as they prepare to take on this formidable opponent. He declares, “After intense months of training, fundraising, and more punches than I’ve ever dreamed of taking, I’m ready to prove that when we band together, we can deliver a knockout blow to cancer.” Joyce Adelugba invites others to join her in making a difference, emphasizing the importance of collective action in the fight against cancer. Her call to support fundraising efforts underscores the vital role of community in driving change. Bianca Solari fights not only for those affected by cancer but also in honor of her grandmother, embodying the legacy of strength and resilience passed down through generations. Yuryssa Lewis draws inspiration from her aunt’s victorious battle with cancer, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and determination in overcoming adversity. Her commitment to supporting cancer research reflects a deep-seated belief in the power of hope. Lydia Ali’s passionate advocacy for the fight against cancer is rooted in personal losses and a dedication to honoring the memory of loved ones. Her resolve to give cancer a knockout blow speaks to the indomitable spirit of resilience. Kate Skarvinko’s lifelong dedication to helping others finds new purpose in the fight against cancer. Her commitment to supporting loved ones in their time of need underscores the enduring power of compassion and solidarity. Liz Ring’s poignant tribute to her father and all those lost to cancer echoes the collective sentiment of grief and determination shared by fighters and supporters alike. Her resolve to knock out cancer for good serves as a powerful reminder of the stakes at hand. As the fighters of Haymakers for Hope step into the ring at the Liberty Bell Brawl, they do so not only as athletes but as champions of hope, resilience, and solidarity. Their stories remind us that in the face of adversity, it is our shared humanity and collective action that have the power to effect change. Together, let us join them in their mission to knock out cancer once and for all.
Read more ›Tuesday Apr 23, 2024
In a world filled with opportunities to make a difference, Haymakers for Hope stands out as a unique and impactful way to contribute to the fight against cancer. Founded on the principle of using boxing as a platform for fundraising and advocacy, this organization has garnered attention for its innovative approach to charity work. But what sets Haymakers for Hope apart, and why should you consider stepping into the ring? Jeff Scola, Rock ‘N Rumble alumni, highlights the unparalleled physical and emotional journey that Haymakers for Hope offers. He emphasizes the raw, visceral connection forged through the act of stepping into the ring, literally fighting against cancer. Beyond raising funds for vital causes, the experience promises personal transformation, regardless of motivation. It’s a chance to push oneself physically and mentally, emerging changed for the better. Chris Rohland, another Rock ‘N Rumble alumni, echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the personal nature of the decision to participate. For him, it was a familial connection to cancer that fueled his desire to fight. Through commitment to training and the cause, participants not only achieve peak physical condition but also find profound emotional fulfillment. It’s about looking within oneself and deciding to take action, despite the inevitable challenges. Nikki Joyal, a Belles of the Brawl alumni, adds a layer of enthusiasm to the discussion, highlighting the sheer joy and satisfaction that come from being part of Haymakers for Hope. As both a participant and a boxing trainer, she emphasizes the transformative power of the experience. From raising substantial funds to receiving free swag, every aspect contributes to a sense of fulfillment and purpose. It’s an opportunity not just to help others but to emerge stronger and more resilient. Joanne Beck, a Liberty Bell Brawl alumni, brings a poignant perspective, emphasizing the significance of honoring loved ones impacted by cancer. Whether they’ve battled the disease themselves or supported someone through it, Haymakers for Hope offers a tangible way to fight back. It’s a literal manifestation of the resilience and determination displayed by cancer patients, a chance to stand in solidarity with them. At its core, Haymakers for Hope is about more than just boxing. It’s about community, empowerment, and the relentless pursuit of a cure for cancer. It offers a unique blend of physical challenge, emotional fulfillment, and meaningful impact. So, why should you sign up to participate? Because it’s an opportunity to make a difference in a way that resonates deeply with your soul. It’s a chance to step into the ring and fight, not just for yourself, but for those who need it most. Learn more and sign up now in a city near you!
Read more ›Help Haymakers for Hope reach more people in more places - and raise money for the fight that really counts.