Nominations

Nominated by Yevgeniya Tsyganok

“Outstanding leadership and sportsmanship”

My Black Colorado Interview

What school do you attend and what year are you in?

I’m a junior at Palmer High School.

What do you think others would say they like about you the most and why? 

I feel like others would point out the fact that I’m caring and I love to be able to help. I hate seeing people sad or angry. I can be someone’s comfort.

When you’re not in a class, what are the things you enjoy being involved with the why?

I love to be in the gym, around my teammates, and coaches. I like to be present and what’s going on in my community, around my family, and friends. 

How did you get into it, or what do you like about it? 

My mom wanted my brother to do boxing at a young age then I came into the gym and tried it, and I loved it both more than my brother. So that’s what got me into it. 

What do you love about boxing? 

I love the challenge because you have to learn just so many different things before you can get into the ring. 

Was it hard for you to learn or did you pick it up pretty quickly?

I picked it up pretty quickly, but it takes time to get all the skills down before you can get into the ring and start boxing and competing and stuff like that. 

Well, if I heard you were right, you’ve won some awards or recognition?

I’m currently ranked number one in my weight class and USA boxing. 

What is the best advice someone has given you recently? 

People have told me never to give up and stick with this sport because even throughout the years, it’s been challenging for me and to keep up with it. But I never give up because they’ve always told me you never know how far you can go with it. 

Where do you train? 

I trained at Triple Threat Boxing Gym. 

What is one thing that you want to get better at? 

I still want to get better at boxing. It’s just something I don’t want to give up on, and I feel like there are so many different skills that have room for improvement.

Has boxing helped in other aspects of your life?

Yes, because being disciplined, you have to know your body and know yourself more than other people know you.

What do you think is one piece of advice that adults need to hear to help them connect with the younger generation

I feel like an adult should be more open-minded with everything around us changing and evolving. There are just so many things that are different now that weren’t like this before.

What accomplishments or awards are you most proud of and why?

Being ranked number one in the nation in my weight class is the one thing I’m proud of because I never thought I could be at that level, but here I am. There have also been many opportunities for me, like traveling around the world and getting to see others: different cultures and people’s way of living.

What are some things that you think you want to do for a career when you get older?

I’ve always wanted to be around kids, and I think my career choice would be a pediatrician. 

What role has your parents played in helping you develop and grow and mature?

My mom has always been my support. She’s still there for me. No matter what, no matter how badly I’m doing or if I’m not doing my best. She’s always there to help me keep going and not give up. 

What advice would you give to kids your age?

Know yourself and know what you can do. Don’t let others tell you what you can and cannot do.