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Free female-only boxing classes prove a hit in Moreland

Former Australian boxing champion Stephanie Mfongwot is offering Moreland girls and women a chance learn from the very best. And best of all – it’s free.

Stephanie Mfongwot is running free female-only boxing classes in Moreland. Picture: Andy Brownbill
Stephanie Mfongwot is running free female-only boxing classes in Moreland. Picture: Andy Brownbill

Nine years ago when Stephanie Mfongwot started boxing, she never imagined how much it would change her life.

Now, the boxing coach is running her own female-only classes at Coburg North’s Oxygen Youth Space – and best of all, they are free.

Stephanie Mfongwot has been boxing for nine years. Picture: Andy Brownbill
Stephanie Mfongwot has been boxing for nine years. Picture: Andy Brownbill

Ms Mfongwot, who grew up in a family of boxers, said she couldn’t imagine what her life would be like without the sport.

“Boxing is a very great sport because it really helps you both mentally and physically,” she said.

“When you train it’s a full body workout, sometimes when I’m having a bad day I start boxing and I just feel relieved.”

The free weekly classes, run by Moreland Council, are aimed at removing barriers to participation in sport and fitness for young females from diverse backgrounds.

The boxing coach has won Australian championships in boxing. Picture: Andy Brownbill
The boxing coach has won Australian championships in boxing. Picture: Andy Brownbill

The classes are non-contact and fitness-based, focusing on building confidence and mental and physical wellbeing in a comfortable and inclusive environment.

She said more and more girls had been turning up to the sessions.

“It’s been going really good, the numbers are increasing and at the moment there’s between 11 and 15 girls each session,” Ms Mfongwot said.

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The boxing classes are a safe space for girls to get their fight on. Picture: Andy Brownbill
The boxing classes are a safe space for girls to get their fight on. Picture: Andy Brownbill

The boxing coach and Australian champion had a message for anyone unsure of whether they should don a pair of gloves.

“Just come, it’ll be fun,” Ms Mfongwot said.

“Follow my instruction and enjoy, it’s all about having fun.”

The boxing classes are held on Wednesday evenings from 5.30pm to 6.30pm and are open to women aged 12 to 24 who live, work or study in Moreland.

emilie.baxter@news.com.au

@EmilieBaxter_

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Original URL: https://www.heraldsun.com.au/leader/north-west/free-femaleonly-boxing-classes-prove-a-hit-in-moreland/news-story/9164f159406a1a3a58d7a7d0e3b8a91a