During the coming months, we’ll be highlighting our fighters in training for the upcoming Rock ‘N Rumble VII in Boston, MA 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 Ryan Coffey, fighting out of Nonantum Boxing Club in Newton, MA.
Where are you from?
I am from Needham, Massachusetts and now live in South Boston.
Where’d you go to college?
I went to St. Lawrence University.
Did you play any sports growing up?
I played Hockey, baseball, and tennis.
What do you do for work?
I am an account executive at the Boston Globe.
Why boxing? Did you ever picture yourself fighting?
I had always been a fan of boxing and had gone to classes on and off for a few years. I never really pictured myself boxing. I really wanted to do Haymakers after I saw my brother do it a few years ago.
Why on earth did you sign up to fight??
After I saw my brother do it, and how he talked so highly of his experience, I knew that I wanted to challenge myself like that. I had always played a sport, even in college, so I wanted to get into that routine again. I also wanted to do something charitable, especially given how many people I know who have battled cancer.
You’re stepping in the ring to literally fight for a cure - where are you drawing your inspiration from? How has cancer affected you?
Nearly 5 years ago, my mom Ann was diagnosed with cancer. This is not a sad story, but a story of courage, combativeness, and fight. I was not around during those long, exhausting days when she had her treatments, as I was at school 6 hours away. It was hard to not be present to comfort her the way the rest of my family could. She never would hold this against me, but in my mind I always knew I would pay her back. I think that doing this is tribute to her on my part. I also lost my cousin Emma, who was only 10 months old, to cancer in high school. I wear a wristband for her everyday so without a doubt I am fighting for Emma and her family as well.
I am honored, and privileged to announce that I will be participating in the 2017 Haymakers for Hope Rock N Rumble Boxing Event this May. Through this emotional and physical battle, I not only hope to raise money for Cancer research, but also pay tribute to my mom for all that she went through. Just like her, I am going to fight like hell, keeping her and everyone else who has battled or continues to battle this awful disease.
What is going to be the most difficult thing to give up during your training? (beer, cheeseburgers, time spent watching TV?)
Beer. I love bud lights so giving up those for an extended period of time won’t be easy. But that is the whole point of this, to challenge yourself.
When you’re not throwing punches and training -- what other hobbies/interests do you have?
I love golf and playing hockey. I also love the Bruins, Sox, and Patriots so I try to go to as many games as I can.
Who do you think is the most excited to watch you get punched in the face come fight night?
My sister Jaclyn, for sure. She and I are really close in age and have had our fair share of battles. I know she wants me to win more than anyone, but she definitely wouldn’t mind seeing me take a few shots.
Be sure to check out his fundraising page here. Best of luck, Ryan!