Ryan Graham, Observer Reporter
2 Rivers Boxing Club is always looking for the next competitive boxer to join their ranks and Melissa O’Flynn is one competitor who has emerged.
O’Flynn, who started at the club in September 2016 says she joined because her brother was at the club and the fact that it has a family atmosphere.
“The reason I started going to the club was because I am a single mom and all the other places I went to didn’t allow me to bring my kid,” O’Flynn said.
“It was really hard to do anything and I knew Wally and he is awesome with kids so that’s how I got started here.”
A regular training session at the club for her involves a 45 minute workout which includes push ups, sit ups and burpees. They also do footwork drills and hit the punching bags as well. O’Flynn competed in Rumble 21 on Dec. 10, 2016 which was her first time in the ring and said it was a great experience.
“It was so exciting and the atmosphere was so cool,” O’Flynn said.
“Everyone was cheering for all the competitors which got everyone psyched up and your adrenaline is running really high.”
She says they work on different skills each time they train.
“I train with my older brother and he is always telling me to set a goal and go for it and once you achieved that goal set another one,” O’Flynn said.
“Currently I am working on my uppercuts and cardio.”
O’Flynn says the other boxers have been great as they have given her a lot of advice.
“Olin Lee has been helping me with my footwork and other stuff and James Mott is one of the most supportive people I’ve met here, but everyone at the club is great,” she said.
Head coach Wally Doern says she’s progressed a lot since joining.
“She’s getting more scientific in her boxing and has displayed good footwork, combinations and concentration in the ring,” Doern said.
“I would say she’s a real up and comer and has progressed the last couple months. She works really hard on her skills and is very determined.”
When deciding which of his boxers are ready to compete, Doern says he’s looking for individuals who have progressed in every aspect of their skills.
“I know once I get them on the hand pads and tap them back and see their reaction how ready they are for competitive matches,” Doern said.
“You can get some that learn the skills and look fantastic and then when they spar it’s completely different.”
O’Flynn shows that with hardwork and dedication you can achieve your goals.
