Boxing is a sport traditionally dominated by men. However, in recent years, we have seen an increase in the number of women participating and excelling in boxing, both as athletes and coaches/trainers.
Here are some inspiring females who have broken barriers and proven that gender does not determine one's success in this male-dominated sport.
1. Ann Najjar
Born and raised in San Diego after her parents relocated from Baghdad, Iraq, Ann Najjar, famously known as “The Mitt Queen,” has solidified her reputation as a professional boxing coach. Based in San Diego, she imparts her expertise to a diverse range of clients, including boxers, mixed martial arts fighters, NBA and NFL athletes, as well as celebrities.
Renowned for her exceptional mitt-holding skills in Boxing events and matches, she earned the moniker “The Mitt Queen” due to the intense and fast-paced mitt sessions she conducts with athletes.
Ann's boxing journey commenced in 2009 when she witnessed her older brother's professional mixed martial arts fight, sparking her passion for the sport. Transitioning from student to coach, she has honed her mitt-holding abilities over a decade, exemplifying dedication and perseverance in achieving her goals.
2. Gloria Thornton-Peek
With a coaching career spanning over 40 years, Gloria Thornton-Peek has mentored boxers across all skill levels, including guiding athletes to Olympic gold. Despite facing gender bias in a predominantly male-centric domain, she has persevered to achieve remarkable success.
In the boxing ring, amidst the intense flurry of punches and strategic maneuvers, Gloria Thornton-Peek, standing at 5’4” at 69 years old, moves in sync with her boxers, offering guidance with each spar. Transitioning a once humble garage gym in Burlington County, NJ, into a premier boxing facility in 2017, she continues to shape the careers of aspiring athletes, from novices to Olympians.
As the trailblazing USA Female International Boxing Coach, Thornton-Peek led Claressa Shields to a historic victory, securing the first-ever gold medal for a woman in the sport. Her legacy extends to mentoring renowned fighters like Jermain Taylor and Andre Ward, impacting countless lives with her dedication and expertise. Despite challenges and physical obstacles, Gloria Thornton-Peek's unwavering passion and commitment affirm her calling in the world of boxing, a path she was destined to pursue.``
3. Lucia Rijker
Lucia Rijker, born on December 6, 1967, in Amsterdam, is a former professional boxer and kickboxer renowned as "The Most Dangerous Woman in the World." Standing at 1.68 m (5 ft 6 in) and nicknamed "The Dutch Destroyer" and "Lady Tyson," Rijker made a significant impact in combat sports with an undefeated boxing record of 17-0, including 14 knockouts.
Transitioning from a successful boxing career, Rijker ventured into coaching and acting, showcasing her versatility and dedication to the sport. Her appearances in films like "Million Dollar Baby" and "Star Trek" brought her further recognition beyond the ring.
Returning to boxing in 2002, Rijker displayed her prowess, securing victories over notable opponents, including Jane Couch and "Sunshine" Fettkether. Despite setbacks like a cancelled match due to injury, Rijker's resilience and passion for boxing never wavered.
Rijker has been training under the esteemed coach Freddie Roach. She was also hired as a striking coach for athletes like former UFC Champion Ronda Rousey highlighting her commitment to nurturing talent and sharing her expertise.
With a tough-love coaching style and a wealth of experience, Lucia Rijker remains an inspirational figure in the boxing world, shaping the future of the sport and empowering athletes to strive for greatness.
4. Danielle Bouchard
Pioneering the path for women in amateur boxing during the early 1990s, Danielle Bouchard continues to make waves as a coach for Olympic and professional boxers today. With a remarkable boxing journey encompassing a decade as an amateur and seven years as a professional fighter predating the inclusion of women's boxing in the Olympics, she stands out as the sole female coach representing Canada at the Olympic Games. Notably, she guided professional light flyweight Kim Clavel to a world title.
She unexpectedly transitioned from the ring to the coaching corner after retiring from boxing in 2008. While balancing her role as a Grade 4 teacher in Montreal, her journey as a coach began when pro fighter Natalie Forget sought her guidance, followed by other ambitious amateurs seeking her expertise.
Recognizing the unique challenges faced by female athletes, Bouchard emphasizes the importance of understanding female psychology, particularly the tendency towards self-criticism and perfectionism. Her dedication to empowering female boxers and fostering a culture of excellence underscores her commitment to shaping the next generation of champions in the sport.
5. Ann Wolfe
Ann Wolfe, born on January 17, 1971, in Austin, Texas, is a former professional boxer and one of the most respected female trainers in the sport. With an impressive record of 24-1 (16 KOs), Wolfe is known for her aggressive style and powerful punches.
Wolfe's boxing career ended due to an eye injury, but she quickly transitioned into coaching and training other fighters. Her unique approach to training, which includes unconventional methods like sparring with male fighters and using tires as punching bags, has gained her recognition and respect in the boxing world.
Having trained and coached fighters like James Kirkland, Wolfe's impact on the sport is undeniable. She has also been recognized for her coaching abilities, being named Trainer of the Year by various organizations.
Wrapping Up
These are just a few of the many inspirational female coaches and trainers in the boxing world. As we continue to see more women excel in coaching and training roles in boxing, it is clear that these incredible individuals have left a lasting impact on the sport. Their contributions will continue to shape the future of boxing and pave the way for more women to make their mark in this challenging and exhilarating sport.
