Friday, June 15 2018
During the coming months, we’ll be highlighting our fighters in training for the upcoming Belles of the Brawl VI in Boston on October 10th. 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 Kayla Shea, fighting out of EverybodyFights.
Where are you from?
Shrewsbury, MA
Where’d you go to college?
University of Maryland
Did you play any sports growing up?
I played basketball and soccer growing up and continued on to play soccer in college.
What do you do for work?
Account Executive at Outfront Media - an out-of-home advertising sales company
Why boxing? Did you ever picture yourself fighting?
I picked up boxing after college soccer ended as a way to stay in shape and stay motivated and I fell in love with it. It gives me the ability to still be competitive and work hard towards a physical goal. I never pictured myself actually stepping into a ring, I always just thought I’d take the classes to stay in shape.
Why on earth did you sign up to fight??
The atmosphere and the foundation. After having been to a few Haymakers events, all I wanted to do was be a part of the amazing atmosphere that’s there on fight night. My family has also been affected by cancer, so to me it was a perfect pair.
You’re stepping in the ring to literally fight for a cure – Where are you drawing your inspiration from? How has cancer affected you?
My mom. In 2007 she was diagnosed with breast cancer and this June she was able to celebrate her tenth-year cancer free. To be able to raise awareness for this awful disease and hopefully raise enough money to maybe prevent just one person from having to go through what my mom did, that would be a success to me. She’s the strongest person I know and I’m inspired to find that strength within myself during this journey.
What is going to be the most difficult thing to give up during your training? (beer, cheeseburgers, time spent watching TV?)
French fries and sleeping in. Hands down two of my favorite things.
When you’re not throwing punches and training -- what other hobbies/interests do you have?
I’m a big fan of spending time with my family and friends, no matter what I’m doing. I’ve also picked up the sport of golf recently so you can probably find me there during the summer.
Who do you think is the most excited to watch you get punched in the face come fight night?
Probably my sister. I’m sure she’s wanted to punch me in the face a few times. Or maybe my coaches for having to deal with my early morning self.
Be sure to check out her fundraising page and wish her luck! Best of luck, Kayla!