Have you ever had a dream that was so far out of reach for you that you never imagined it to be possible? Since the age of 14, I’ve dreamed of becoming an amateur fighter, but this dream felt like more of a fantasy than anything else. I often found myself thinking, “If only I had another life.” I never thought I would see this dream come to life because I knew what it takes to be a fighter. I didn’t believe in myself; I didn’t think I could do it. For years, the only thing stopping me was my mind, my excuses, my insecurities, and ultimately, myself. I was stopping myself when so many around me believed in me.
On November 16, 2018, my dream became a reality. I walked out under those bright lights, with the crowd cheering loudly, and I stepped into that ring with tunnel vision; the only thing I could see was my opponent. And then I did it! I made my biggest fantasy come to life! It was a night that changed me forever. But it wasn’t just that night; it was the journey to get there! I truly know what it means to have support and people who believe in you: my coaches, my family, and my friends, those who never gave up on me when I wanted to throw in the towel. They will always be part of why I’m where I am today, and I’m forever thankful.
I was lost before I was a fighter, and through boxing, I found myself. I didn’t win my first fight, but I fought my heart out, and I walked out a new woman. I was not defeated. I’ll never forget the feeling I had as tears of happiness streamed down my face. I wasn’t lost anymore. I wasn’t scared. I now believed in myself. I now loved myself and the person I became. I was proud of myself for the first time in my life.
Fighting isn’t just a far-off distant dream anymore; it’s my survival, it makes me feel alive. It’s WHO I AM! And I’m just getting started. Nothing can stop me! All you have to do is have faith and believe in yourself!
AMY MINTER
USA BOXING
HER FIRST FIGHT: Stories To Encourage & Inspire is Revolheart's blog series chronicling women and girls' first bouts in the ring. We did it and so can you. Spark another gal's fight, share your first fight story! Email us at info@revolheart.com. Let's All Fight!
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