You’ve heard who they are and why they’re fighting. But now that we’re over the halfway mark until the big night on May 18th, things have started to pick up a bit. Training is getting more intense. They’ve been punched in the face. Most have had a bloody nose here or there, their diets have changed, and boxing is becoming an everyday part of their lives. So we figured it was about time to check back in and see how things have been going. Ryan Coffey has been putting in work at Nonantum Boxing Club and below you’ll hear about his first time sparring and more about his experience with Haymakers thus far.
We’re more than halfway to fight night, how is your training coming along?
My training is going well. I feel like I am in great shape and have improved a lot in terms of boxing. But still, have a lot of work to do.
What is your weekly routine?
Normally it is Monday and Fridays working one on with my trainer Shane, Tuesday / Thursday doing a class with a run in the morning, Wednesday sparring, Saturday class and sparring. But it varies
How has your diet changed since training began?
It has changed a lot. I have lost about 18 pounds since December which is crazy. I really just eat as healthy as possible and have made all my snacks healthy or protein heavy. Nuts, beef jerky, hard boiled eggs. Stuff like that. I also started ordering my meals through SoulFu3l, which is a meal prep company out of Southie. One of their founders is a friend of mine, Christina Morris, who actually participated in Belles of the Brawl. Their food has been awesome and helped clean up my diet.
Tell us about your first time sparring, different than expected?
It was what I thought it would be physically, exhausting. Mentally, I didn’t think it was going to be so hard. I was sparring with Joe O’Brien and Jeff Scola and we all have gotten so close through training that it was weird to have to go in there and punch each other. But like I said, mentally it is very difficult and draining.
What has been the most challenging part of sticking to the routine and training so far?
The mental aspect of it. Life itself is a grind, with work and what not. Then having to be up and ready to go for training is extremely hard. Often times my day has been long and grueling from work and then having to go fight or run or any type of training, it’s hard to stay energized/
What does your family think of your participation?
They have been awesome. My brother Sean participated in Haymakers a couple years ago so he knows all about it. I have relied heavily on him for advice and guidance. Can’t thank him enough. My dad has really taken to it as well. He loves boxing and loves that fact I am doing it so he tries to help as much as he can. But most importantly, my mom. I am fighting for her so she is the one that I see and instantly get focused on what I have to do. She is amazing.
It’s amazing how many people’s lives have been touched by cancer in some way - has there been anyone that has surprised you by their story?
No one story, in particular, has surprised me. What has surprised me is how many people really know about haymakers or have had someone they know participate. It is such a remarkable event and its reach is crazy. So I am just honored to be a part of it.
Has your initial inspiration changed since the start of your training?
No, my inspiration remains for my mom, my cousin and all who have fought or continue to fight cancer. But I think on top of that I want to perform well for Nonantum Boxing Club, and my trainer Shane. They have been awesome and so helpful. I can’t thank them enough, especially for the times, I get a little heated!
Donate to Ryan or purchase a ticket to Rock 'N Rumble VII on May 18th here!