Fight night
Roaring screams and loud clapping created an animated atmosphere in the gym at Keppner Boxing & Fitness, the lively crowd cheering every time a critical hit was made.
On the night of Saturday Nov.12, Keppner held a free sparring night event in order to raise money for Heart Music. Raising over $400 in their donation box by the end of the night, the gym was filled with a variety of boxers coming from the local Athens Keppner gym and the Loganville Keppner location.
Established in 2013, Keppner boxing has been on many people’s radars. Each class focuses on different aspects, offering a variety of classes at different times and choices between cardio or actual boxing skills.
Keppner coaches Dean Agnew and Maura Cartwright coordinated the event. For some fighters attending it was their first time sparring, and a mix of emotions were felt from both the fighters and the crowd.
“I thought it (the night) went great, I got to get work in a non professional setting so it was great,” Agnew said. “All the fighters that participated did great. Just getting in there, knowing how nerve wrecking it can be in front of a crowd, even if it’s a small crowd.”
Each person who attended the event helped establish a greater sense of community within Keppner.
“I was nervous watching the fight, I came to watch my boyfriend and my friends spar. It was very interesting, but it made me really nervous. The community was very good, everybody was so welcoming and willing to learn more about me,” event attendee Isabella Martinez said.
The sparring event allowed different types of fighters to shine and showcase their skills in a way where they can also do good by helping raise money for Heart Music, a local nonprofit organization that works with schools, tying together the concept of music and boxing with the community.
“Growing up, I played in a band so I know how important it can be. Especially for some people, that’s all they have. That’s the only escape from my reality sometimes. So you definitely want to influence some kids’ lives and give them a way out,” Agnew said.
