Wednesday, June 28 2017
During the coming months, we’ll be highlighting our fighters in training for the upcoming Belles of the Brawl V in Boston on October 5th. They’ve committed to four months of fundraising and training in preparation to get in the ring and literally fight for a cure. Whether they've had first hand experience, 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 Marissa Polichene, fighting out of Redline Fight Sports in Sommerville, MA.
Where are you from?
I’m from Mt. Airy, MD
Where’d you go to college?
University of Maryland, College Park - go Terps!!
Did you play any sports growing up?
I did everything (skating, karate, basketball), but I stuck with soccer and lacrosse through high school.
What do you do for work?
I run the Integrations Program at Toast (another Boston startup)!
Why boxing? Did you ever picture yourself fighting?
I hate running so a marathon or 5k has always been out of the question. As for boxing... well I couldn't even watch boxing on TV without getting queasy so no I never thought I'd be fighting. But at the same time I LOVE a good challenge... so here we are.
Why on earth did you sign up to fight??
Giving a back + the street cred I'd get from a black eye? How could I not?
You’re stepping in the ring to literally fight for a cure - where are you drawing your inspiration from? How has cancer affected you?
I'm drawing inspiration from a lot of sources - family, friends, my Belle-mates. You really never know what tomorrow will bring, and I find it incredibly inspiring that my participation in Haymakers today can contribute - even in some small way - to a better, more hopeful future for those who have been affected by cancer.
What is going to be the most difficult thing to give up during your training? (beer, cheeseburgers, time spent watching TV?)
All of the foods, I love to eat. And sleep - haven't been doing as much sleeping since training has started.
When you’re not throwing punches and training -- what other hobbies/interests do you have?
Traveling (I spent 5 weeks in SE Asia last October - November with my husband), hiking with my puppy Beasley, eating my way through Boston & the burbs, fitness.
Who do you think is the most excited to watch you get punched in the face come fight night?
Definitely more than one person... I'm not a charmer. But (this is going to sound terrible) probably my husband - he is insanely competitive and loves helping push me towards my goals.
Be sure to check out her fundraising page here and wish her luck! Best of luck, Marissa!