NATE

Over 13 years ago there was an episode on the “Sunday” TVNZ program about Billy and the Naenae Boxing Academy - I was intrigued! I had also seen how some of the boys from school had become extremely fit and gained a really positive attitude from going to the gym. I went to sign up as soon as I could after that.

Although I was eager to join, I must admit, I was pretty nervous. The smell of sweaty gloves hit me straight away. Then I was greeted by two kind ladies who helped me register for the next term.

I was like Bambi on ice when I first put gloves on. However, there was so much support from the coaches and the other guys at the gym, and over time the gym felt like a second home. Everyone wanted to see everyone succeed. It didn’t matter your background, if you were willing to put the work in and show up you had the respect of everyone at the gym.

With consistency and commitment, I learnt how to skip and do a wicked amount of push ups and sit ups - more than I ever thought was possible! In addition to these physical skills, I learnt some crucial mental skills - resilience, perseverance, and compassion.  

In my years at the academy, there was a strong sense of brotherhood. Everyone was there to grow and support each other grow. 

I recently graduated with a law degree, and I am about to be admitted to the bar. I work with an awesome group of people who are very similar to the people I met at Naenae Boxing Academy.  I have always kept up the skipping (although not a great party trick). The academy instilled in me the ability to treat others as you wish to be treated, work hard, show-up for your goals and for yourself and you will be able to achieve great things.