Friday, July 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 Daphne Wang, fighting out of Back Bay Boxing in Boston, MA.
Where are you from?
I grew up in Chelmsford, MA, currently live in Brookline, and moving to the South End in the fall.
Where’d you go to college?
Boston College - Eagles on the Warpath, Ooh Ahh!
Did you play any sports growing up?
Growing up I played soccer and tennis later on in high school. I recently picked up golf, TBD if I'm any good.
Why boxing? Did you ever picture yourself fighting?
In middle school, a friend dragged a group of us to a boxing gym after she saw a boxing reality TV show. It turned out to be one of the most terrifying experiences of my life - picture 3 scrawny middle school girls shadow boxing with grown adult men in the opposite of a boutique fitness studio. I never thought I'd be back to boxing... but I recently re-discovered boxing at Title Boxing Newbury St and have been loving it ever since!
Why on earth did you sign up to fight??
Getting in the ring was something that scared me and probably still does - I wanted to overcome that fear while also contributing towards an important cause.
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've seen cancer affect my friends and family either directly or indirectly. What amazes me is their resilience. I'll be drawing on them for inspiration - my journey to Belles of the Brawl 2017 can't compare to what those fighting cancer are facing, but if my fundraising dollars can go towards knocking out cancer, then I'm all in.
What is going to be the most difficult thing to give up during your training? (beer, cheeseburgers, time spent watching TV?)
Probably time spent mindlessly binging Bravo (#WheresCarl, #NewCraig). Also, the flexibility to ditch a workout when the weather is nice in favor of patio drinks.
When you’re not throwing punches and training -- what other hobbies/interests do you have?
I love checking out new restaurants with friends. I pride myself on always knowing the hottest new spot in town and having the perfect dinner recs - Coppa in the South End is always a good choice!
Who do you think is the most excited to watch you get punched in the face come fight night?
Hopefully, those that would rather not see me get punched in the face exceed those that do, but I'm sure there are at least a couple people out there.
Be sure to check out her fundraising page here and wish her luck! Best of luck, Daphne!