Friday, December 15, 2023
In the heart of New Albany, a 17-year-old high school student is making waves not just in the classroom, but also in the boxing ring. Meet Anthony Gonzalez, a passionate young boxer who has discovered the therapeutic power of the sport and recently earned the right to face opponents a year his senior.
For Anthony, boxing is more than just a physical activity; it’s a form of therapy that has provided solace and strength during his high school journey. Battling the pressures of academics and teenage challenges, he found an outlet in the rhythmic dance of footwork and the controlled power of a well-executed punch.
New Albany High School recognized the positive impact of Anthony’s involvement in boxing on his mental well-being and overall resilience. The school supported his journey by fostering an environment that encouraged students to explore diverse interests and talents beyond traditional academic pursuits.
Anthony’s dedication to the sport led him to pursue a boxing license, a remarkable achievement for a 17-year-old. The license allows him to step into the ring and compete against 18-year-olds, a testament to his skill, determination, and the therapeutic benefits he gains from the sport.Â
"Boxing for me is like therapy. It provides me with complete clarity and peace of mind which might seem odd because you’re constantly getting punched, in physical pain, and mental strain however it’s exactly that that’s therapeutic. When you’re in the moment you can’t focus on anything else but the moment. I’m free of overthinking and worrying about things I can’t control. I only worry about the work I’m doing and the guy in front of me. It’s also great for discipline and realizing you can do hard things but  you may just have to push yourself a little harder at one time than you would have to at another."