Tuesday, March 13 2018
During the coming months, we’ll be highlighting our fighters in training for the upcoming Rumble in the Rockies in Denver on June 14th. 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 Alex Frank, fighting out of the Corner Boxing Club.
Where are you from?
Boulder, CO
Where’d you go to college?
Northwestern University
Did you play any sports growing up?
Soccer, Basketball, Lacrosse (played lacrosse in college)
What do you do for work?
Associate Head Women’s Lacrosse Coach at University of Colorado Boulder
Why boxing? Did you ever picture yourself fighting?
We boxed in college once a week as cross training for our sport. I loved the intensity of the class and doing something I had never done before. I am not sure I ever pictured myself fighting. We only focused on fundamentals in college so the idea of fighting someone is exciting but also intimidating.
Why on earth did you sign up to fight??
My friend and her husband participated in the Haymakers event in Boston and I had the opportunity to attend the event. It was inspiring to watch the fighters and listen to their stories. The intensity and enjoyment of all the fighters was infectious and I knew it was something I wanted to be a part of if I had the chance. When I saw it was going to be in Denver, I jumped at the opportunity to participate.
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 am drawing my inspiration from a lot of different people. Even though we are fighting to knock out cancer I always keep in mind those fighting all types of illnesses. When I was in school we had the opportunity to build a relationship with a young lady, Jaclyn Murphy, who had battled a brain tumor. To hear what Jaclyn had gone through and to see her to continue to grow into the young woman she is today has always been an inspiration. I also draw inspiration from my good family friend, Paula Evans. She was a second mother to me and helped me get to where I am today. It was tough watching her battle cancer for numerous years and eventually losing her fight. However seeing her at every lacrosse tournament, coaching young ladies and being a huge support system while she was sick has been something I have always looked up to. I admired her strength, courage, and love and hope to honor the legacy she has left.
What is going to be the most difficult thing to give up during your training? (beer, cheeseburgers, time spent watching TV?)
Not exactly sure but probably time spent watching TV.
When you’re not throwing punches and training -- what other hobbies/interests do you have?
I love to be outdoors. Hiking, skiing, fishing, etc. I try to take advantage of any time I get to spend with my dog enjoying what Colorado has to offer.
Who do you think is the most excited to watch you get punched in the face come fight night?
Players on my team.
Be sure to check out her fundraising page here and wish her luck! Best of luck, Alex!