Tuesday, August 7 2018
During the coming months, we’ll be highlighting our fighters in training for the upcoming Hope NYC in NYC on November 15th. 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 Neil Schuster, fighting out of Mendez Boxing in New York City.
Where are you from?
Atlanta, GA
Where did you go to college?
Columbia University
Did you play any sports growing up?
Football, basketball, and golf
What do you do for work?
Co-Founder | Merch Czar - No Laying Up
New Business Ad Sales - Google
Why boxing? Did you ever picture yourself fighting?
I’ve heard it was the best all around workout. I’m 29 and I like the idea of being in the best shape of my life and the 1 vs 1 challenge waiting for me on November 15th. That’s real motivation for me, though I have pictured myself boxing in my younger years, I never considered doing it in front of a crowd like the one I saw at H4H 2017!
Why on earth did you sign up to fight?
Each year I try to set a unique physical goal that’s black and white and that makes me think, ‘how am I going to pull this off?’ Last year was “Dunk Watch 2017” (the goal was to dunk a basketball) and this year the goal is “win a boxing match.” Combining this physical goal with a cause like fighting cancer is a win/win.
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 mother’s bout with breast cancer when I was just a 3rd grader. She’s beat cancer’s ass and has remained cancer free for 19 years. Over that time, I’ve seen cancer take a toll on cousins, aunts, and friends losing several of them way too quickly. I’m incredibly lucky to have my Mom healthy and cancer free since 1999. It was the best case scenario, and I don’t reflect on how amazing her story has been. I also miss these other influential people like crazy, and I want to do something in their honor and for their loved ones; A fight seems fitting.
What is going to be the most difficult thing to give up during your training?
The snooze button
When you’re not throwing punches and training - what other hobbies/interests do you have?
Golf, leisurely bike rides around NYC, playing the drums, and reading
Who do you think is the most excited to watch you get punched in the face come fight night?
The haters and losers!
Be sure to check out his fundraising page and wish her luck! Best of luck, Neil!