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Three Seattle Women Train for Boxing at Amateur Nationals

By Julia Velie


Adrian Lugg squares off.
Mar 12, 1999 -- In a sport dominated by men, there are three women boxers in Seattle training for the Women's Amateur Nationals in April, to be held in Pennsylvania. Linda Ross, Sholanda Green, and Adrian Lugg take boxing seriously, and though all three work full-time, they train five and six days a week jumping rope, shadow boxing, punching bags, and sparring in the ring. These women enjoy boxing for the physical workout and as a tool they use to control emotion, anger and attitude.

Sholanda Green works for the city of Seattle. She's been boxing with Cappy Kotz, owner of Cappy's on Capital Hill, for three years. She trains six days a week, breaking that time up evenly between cardiovascular/strength building and sparring in the ring. She's in the light-heavyweight class at 175 pounds. She hasn't fought any women or men in a real competition, because in and around Seattle there are no women in her weight class to fight. But Sholanda is optimistic about her performance in the Nationals. Her coach says, "Unfortunately, there are not a lot of women boxers around. Many of the women here box each other or box with men." Sholanda recommends boxing for women for the -fundamentals of self defense and to toughen women up.

Linda Ross has been boxing since 1993 and has been with Cappy Kotz as a boxer since her gym opened in 1998. She's in the featherweight-light class weighing in at 132 pounds. Her training schedule is similar to Sholanda's in that it's an all-week commitment to strength building and sparring. Her educational background is impressive too. She has a B.A. from the University of Victoria in Canada and a Ph.D. in psychology and biology. Linda thinks women should try boxing to develop their upper bodies. She also believes boxing can help a person overcome weaknesses and help the boxer to feel more 'centered.' There's a definite energy about Linda when she speaks about boxing. Her enthusiasm is contagious as she explains how the sport allows fighters to recognize and conquer issues that prevent them from concentrating and controlling their actions in and out of the ring.

Adrian Lugg, the final competitor, has been boxing for two years. She's 26. She said, "I was always curious about boxing, so one day I started shadow boxing and I got really into it." She's been in two exhibitions and three competitions. When thinking about the Nationals, she's the most nervous of the three competitors because she doesn't like to be in the spotlight. Once she's in the ring and focusing, though, she says, "the outside world melts away." Like Linda and Sholanda, Adrian boxes not only for the physical benefits but for the emotional empowerment boxing provides.

Cappy's gym is in the Capital Hill neighborhood of Seattle. When you're there you'll see the boxing gloves hanging along the walls with jump ropes and head gear. There are women shadow boxing in the mirrors and others sparring in the ring. There's loud music playing and a bell going off every six minutes alerting those sparring that their round is up.

Cappy opened the gym in September of 1998. She offers boxing fitness classes and boxing lessons throughout the week for men and women. Cappy started boxing when she was nine, but left the sport for over ten years. Returning to boxing in her twenties, she realized its many physical and emotional benefits. Cappy has her license to be an amateur boxing coach, she's the author of Boxing for Everyone: How to Get Fit and Have Fun With Boxing and is a former Seattle firefighter.

Linda, Sholanda, and Adrian are the only three competing members of Cappy's 14-member gym. They will be eligible to compete on the amateur level until they're 33 years old.

These athletes are competing in a sport dominated by men and have learned the importance of aligning and realigning their bodies and minds. The women are taught the basic moves and the correct stance so that as they box they don't throw themselves off balance, but there's also a positive attitude, developing simultaneously with their skills, that enhances their physical strength.

Cappy is looking for sponsors for the boxers' competition in April. Her gym is located at 2002 E. Union, Seattle, 98122. She's also working on fundraising to help pay for the competitors' trip to Pennsylvania in the Spring. If you're interested in working with her or finding out more about classes at the gym, give her a call.



Reader Comments

Discuss this article in the forums!

Jessica Oct 03, 2002 Everett, WA teller
   Thank you for showing some female boxers. I am a female boxer who just started 2 months ago. I love the sport and would love to see more women doing it. I train with only men, we have no women at my club. Thak you very much!
Michele Reedy May 05, 2003 Seattle, WA IT Contractor
   I am looking for a place to develop boxing skills for fun, energy, stress reduction, etc. I currently have a weight and cardio routine, but I would love to start boxing. If someone could contact me via e-mail with any helpful information, I would appreciate it. Thanks much.
Mary May 06, 2003 Renton, WA Accounting
   Can anyone tell me of a place in the Renton area that teaches boxing? Email me @ m_bourg@lycos.com. Thanks!
Sara May 28, 2003 seattle,wa student
   I am looking for at least someone who have had a boxing experience and to know the location around the seattle area. Please, if anybody would happen to know the location contact me because i'm so interested in becoming a female boxer. Thanks!
Mark McKnight Jun 14, 2003 Poulsbo Filmmaker
   I'm scouting for a boxing ring which I can use to shoot a commercial. Any good locations for this in Seattle that anyone can suggest? Please reply directly to my email address. Thanks. -Mark
Tina Lovick Jul 21, 2003 seattle, washington,usa mail room insurance company
   Hi I was just hoping to find a place were theres other women to learn with. So if anyone wants to explore boxing with me email me.
Lindsey Sep 20, 2003 Seattle, wa Student
   Im looking for anywhere good, where there are expiranced boxers who would beable to help me train, i am just begining and i would like to be better so please if anyone knows where a good place is please e-mail me.
Guy Pagan Oct 23, 2003 Miami/NYC/Island of PR Retired Military/Familyman
   I've been in or around the sport of boxing for most of my life. Clearly, I love boxing. As a youngboy in the state of connecticut I boxed as a amatuer. In the military I boxed overseas against several different countries. I've coached and ref in the amatuers.Trained professional boxer in the Brook1yn NY and Miami,FL. Have taken an active part as a prof-cutman, second and judged many fights. I've recently retired after twenty-three years in the military. I'm presently preparing to relocate to the Seattle/Tacoma area, sometime around the month of March/April 2003, time frame. I would proudly train any serious individual( Male or Female) looking to either get in shape or perhaps seek a opportunity in the sport. Please, only serious individual respond. I'm not a joke. I take my training seriously. And I'm a good trainer.
stephen Jan 12, 2004 everett N/A
   I am a 16 year old and am in to boxing where would i go in everett to train?
stephen Jan 12, 2004 everett N/A
   where would i got for boxing in Everett WA to train/box well if anyone know plzz e-mail me hitnrun4000@yahoo.com Plzz no spam
Dave Jan 21, 2004 Ballard Washington Instructor
   If anyone is looking for the best boxing training in the Seattle area, train with Robert Shannon (2 time Olympian, 6 National Titles, Junior World Champion, and was rated top 10 in the world 1986-1988 as a professional), please call him @ 206-478-5526. No joke!
Chelsea Feb 05, 2004 Everett student
   I am a 15 yr old female that lives in Everett and I wanna start taking boxing classes. Does anyone know where I can go that is close by? Email me please at: sexythug_princess@hotmail.com
Sholanda Green Feb 20, 2004 King County Washington self-employed
   Female Athletic Division is back. We are currently registering females boxers, martial artists and basketball players at intermediate or advanced skill levels for clubs around the Seattle area. Men who have experience training with women athletes are welcome to join. Fees are free for "sparring partners" and very inexpensive for those who are looking for coaches and personal trainers.
Lectoyia Green Apr 29, 2004 Seattle, Washington High School Student
   Hi, Iwas Wondering If You Know Where I Can Take Boxing Classes Because Me And A Friend Wants To Learn How To Box!! Thank You.
steadman mathis Jun 13, 2004 seattle washington unemployed
   I want a fight for my life.I will take on any heavyweight out there.I want the champs WBA,WBC,IBF anyone.Steadman wants a title shot right now.Someone out there hook me up.This would be my first pro fight.I want 200k,and this is no joke repeat no joke.The champs out there can't fight.
Dwayne Ligon Aug 17, 2004 Tacoma, WA Boxing lessons
   Like others, I too have just started boxing. Right now, its Mostly at home, but I would like to know if there is a gym I could train in, in and around the Tacoma area. If you have knowledge of this information, please feel free to mail it to me. Thank you
allison schwab Oct 03, 2004 washington
   Please e-mail me with some of your info. I am very interseted in your classes. Thanks, Allison Schwab
Ben Bradley Oct 21, 2004 Tacoma, WA student
   I've been doing working with a personal trainer for around 3 years now. A couple of my training sessions we've done basic boxing routines, and it's been a great workout. Now i'm even more interested in it, and am looking for someone who I would be able to take weekly classes from, preferably saturday classes. I am able to come up to Seattle. If anyone has any info on classes in the tacoma/seattle area, please email me with the info at bbradley@ups.edu Thanks
Shannon Oct 28, 2004 Lynnwood, WA homemaker
   People looking to train as boxers in the Everett area can check out South Everett Boxing club ran by a trainer named Gary. My son boxes there and it is great. Right now their club is at the Everett Elks, downstairs. The train Mon, Tues, Thursday, 6pm to 8pm.
IRIS Nov 17, 2004 LOS ANGELES HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT
   HI, I'M LOOKING FOR A BOXING SCHOOL IN LOS ANGELES, SO IF ANYONE KNOWS OF ANY PLZ E-MAIL ME AT FREAKLILBABE@AOL.COM THANK YOU!!
andrew Dec 16, 2004 india business
   it is very nice to hear many female boxers came forward to fight fot the competitions
myra Dec 26, 2004 Cincinnati Ohio Student college basketball pla
   Im interested in starting to box, im over here playing college hoops but would love to learn how to box, i beleive it would really help my basketball! If anyone knows of anyone who trains in Cincinnati i would like to know!!
Corrie Jan 09, 2005 Covington, WA Travel Supervisor
   I am a completely out of shape (yet strong) female who has always dreamt of boxing. I would really like to find a gym that I would not feel completely uncomfortable at and that is somewhat close to my home. If you know of somewhere, please let me know! Thank you
The Human Tornado Jan 29, 2005 Streets of Seattle
   I am interested in boxing. I have been to a few of the local fights, and have seen Cappy's "fighters". Not impressed, have never really seen any of them punch. How do they win without throwing punches? DO they win? If you cherish your looks and brains, stay away from Cappy's until she learns how to teach the sweet science. But if you just want to look cool, and chic. Then you found your place.
Asia Mar 09, 2005 Tacoma, WA Student
   If anyone knows someplace where I can train as a boxer, kinda close to me. I think it would be a good way for me to get in shape.
stephany Mar 27, 2005 everett military
   i am 19 i love the sport but never found any sort of place that will train a girl to be a boxer i was wondering if anyone could help in letting me know where i could go or who i can call please email me at noubleau.stephnay@lincoln.navy.mil thanks
Shannon Mar 31, 2005 Lynnwood mom
   This goes out to Stephany you can train at the Everett Elks Boxing Club in Everett, Gary Hughes is the trainer, girls are trained there.
Dave Foster Mar 31, 2005 Seattle, WA Lead Pastor The Anchor Church
   To GUY PAGAN or other potential TRAINERS: My son Brandon has been boxing for one year. He is a serious worker and loves the sport. I am seeking a personal trainer for him to take him to the next level and walk him through the steps to contention. email at dfoster@theanchorchurch.net or call 206-227-7729
TRAVIS TURPIN Apr 18, 2005 EVERETT MILITARY
   HEY I'M LOOKING FOR SOMEONE TO TRAIN ME. I LOVE THE SPORT AND I THINK I'M A NATURAL BOXER. I THINK I HAVE THE WILL AND THE HEART TO BE THE BEST. I JUST NEED SOMEONE EXPERIENCED TO WORK WITH. MY E-MAIL ADDRESS ID TURPINT@DAVIS.NAVY.MIL
TRAVIS TURPIN Apr 18, 2005 EVERETT MILITARY
   TO GUY PAGAN. I'M LOOKING FOR SOMEONE TO TRAIN WITH SO IF U WILL, PLEASE CONTACT ME AT MY E-MAIL ADDRESS. I'M VERY SERIOUS ABOUT BOXING.
Julie ESpinoza Apr 19, 2005 San jose California
   HI my names julie, If n-e-one knows some where i could train as a female boxer,kinda close to me please send me a e-mail im 15 and im really interested in the sport, right know im tacking kick boxing but i just rather take boxing so please send me a e-mail if you could help me.
Diana May 04, 2005 pennslvania
   If any one, wants or knows where I can train for boxing please email me. I am 30 and very serious about this. Thank You
Lisa Putman May 13, 2005 Issaquah WA
   I just bought a punching bag. I want to learn how to properly hit the bag. I am doing this just for exercise, not for competition. I am hoping to find a female boxer who can give me private lessons on how to PROPERLY hit the bag. If there is anyone in my area who wants to make some extra money teaching me, please contact me. Thanks!
Guy Pagan Jun 02, 2005 Ft. Lauderdale, FL Boxing Trainer
   To respond to the few serious prospects, recently I've just relocated to the south Florida area. I'm sorry. But, if you still very interested and find yourself in my neck of the woods. Please, I'm available.
Guy Pagan Jun 02, 2005 Ft. Lauderdale, FL Boxing Trainer
   My email: gnpagan59@yahoo.com
lynnda Jun 13, 2005 tacoma,washington student
   i would like to know how to box because thats what i want to be a boxer since i was young .i want to know that i have strenght to take somebody down and it will feel good to know your not weak but have confident in yourself.
lynnda Jun 13, 2005 tacoma,washington student
   if any one knows any classes please contact me thank you lrlynnda@yahoo.com
Julie Jun 22, 2005 Lake Stevens, WA
   I am looking for a place that my 16 year old son can learn to box. We live in the Everett/Lake Stevens, WA area. Please email me with any suggestions. Thank you. Julie_Foos@yahoo.com
stephany Jul 13, 2005 Miami, Florida student
   I am interested in boxing /training not for the sport but for strength training and self-control. Are you still available Guy Pagan?
Guy Pagan Jul 21, 2005 Miami/Hollywood Boxing Trainer
   Yes, I am Stephany..my email address is gnpagan59@yahoo.com - let me know your available scheduled. Thanks
WILLIE EDWARDS Jul 23, 2005 CLEVELAND OHIO BOXING MANAGER
   IM LOOKING FOR YOUNG LIONS WITH SOME AMATEUR EXPERIENCE IN BOXING 18 YEARS OLD AND UP READY TO TURN PRO AND NEED A MANAGER CONTACT ME at innercityproductions@hotmail.com or call 216-224-5056 I CAN HELP YOUR PRO CAREER
Rushi Jul 30, 2005 pakistan olympian professional boxer
   im an ex-olympian and a professional boxer now im working as a trainer if any one wanna contect me mail me at rushi4di2003@yahoo.com thnx
Aubrey L. Aug 12, 2005 Euclid,Ohio
   I won't to box because i would like to see how it feels to be a boxer and because i won't be scared of nobody that wont's to fight me because i am doubol jointed in my arms so its kinda hard for me to hold m position so i was wondering if you could help me out i would really appreciate that thank you very much
Michelle Berniard Aug 13, 2005 Spanaway Wa Pediatric Massage Therapist
   I'm looking for a gym close to me that gives boxing lessons. If anyone knows where i can find this please e-mail me. Thank You Michelle
Michelle Berniard Aug 13, 2005
   I guess I should leave my e-mail address pnwcajun19@comcast.net
sherrell davis Aug 19, 2005 Tacoma, Wa Security Screener
   How can i become a boxer or train for it in Tacoma,Wa?
Vanessa Oct 06, 2005 Myrtle Beach SC
   I am 17 years old and love to box. I have had some experience. But about 7 months ageo I moved to SC and that put my boxing on hold. I would love to become a more experienced boxer and some day get the chance to step into the ring for a title. If anyone can help me please e-mail me with some info about managers,trainers,or anything that will help me. Please.
nilandra Oct 09, 2005 india. new delhi boxing
   hi , i am crazy about boxing and i want to became agreat boxer in my but the problem is that india have good scope in boxing so i want to go any place in which i can leaarn boxing.please tell about any club or any university who teach about boxing.please sugeest me .
jessica Oct 17, 2005 seattle, wa student
   hey does anybody know where i'd go to get some training for boxing?? if you do PLEASE e-mail me at caramel_mocha6920@yahoo.com
Patricia a. Carter Oct 27, 2005 elsegundo, california 90245 Child Support Officer II
   I have a niece that is knocking Guys out, off their feet, she has a look in her eye asthough no one is home. Therefore if you have any talent or if you have any true boxers out their give me a call. Now this message is not for any star studded people like Lai La, Muhummads daughter, because she would not stand a chance. My girl has talent, she is skilled by nature and ready to rummble, so put your money where your mouth is or clear this line.
w.edwards Nov 11, 2005 cleveland manager
   hello audrey l. from euclid ohio i live in cleveland ohio and i am a pro manager i think i can help you
stephen Nov 22, 2005 scotland bellshill school
   i am a amatuer boxer i am 12 but i want to no how to get a personal coach plz someone tell me how
DANIELLE WINSTON Dec 04, 2005 RICHMOND,VA23235 LICENSED PRACTICAL NURSE
   I AM TRYING TO BREAK GROUND AS A BOXER. I NEED TO KNOW THE WHO, WHAT, WHEN, WHERE, HOW AND WHY OF THE INDUSTRY. I CURRENTLY LIVE IN RICHMOND,VIRGINIA. I WOULD LOVE TO GIVE SOME OF THE LADIES I'VE READ ABOUT ON THIS SITE SOMEONE TO FIGHT !
Sean Littles Dec 08, 2005 philadelphia,PA N/A
   I am a 14teen year old khmer boy. The message that i want to post out to this website is that i am a amatuer boxer, but don't have the equipment to train. So as of right now i am just hitting push up and jogging every morning. The dream that i want with all my heart is to become the next legend at this sport. So what i am looking for is a trainer to guide me threw, for the next 5 to 6 years. Thank you for takeing some time to read my message. Please have a good day and enjoy life. I also what the world to know that I've GOT THE HANDS OF A CHAMP!!! BELIVE THAT.
Angel Bovee Dec 22, 2005 Nashville, TN Boxing Resource Center
   The not-for-profit Boxing Resource Center is a place for all young girls and women serious about learning Olympic-style boxing. We want to create a gym and learning environemnt that does not currently exist in the US for women who are dedicated to the sport and art of boxing. Check out www.boxingresource.com for more info. The head coach is a women and the most knowleggable person I have ever met on the sport of Olympic-style boxing. 615-331-9779
Linda Ross Dec 27, 2005 Covington, WA Athletic Trainer/Fitness Educa
   Although I no longer compete, I do train women to box for fitness purposes. I'm currently working with six female boxers, one who may compete if/when she's ready. Please feel free to contact me through my website: www.fitmind-body.com
ANNABEL LEAL Dec 29, 2005 RICHMOND CA,
   hi my name is annabel iam 17 years old i was boxing for a few months with my uncle. but now im looking for personal boxing coach if anybody nows anything please contact me at(510)776-6753 thank you =)
Jesse James Jan 07, 2006 Everett Wa Trucker
   Hello, I am 44yrs old and have always loved boxing. I've been thinking about training at a boxing gym somewhere here in everett but i am hesitating because of my age. However, I am still strong and heathy but i am over weight. So its either train with my love of boxing or go joing the 24 HR fittness. What do you think.????
Jane Welle Jan 15, 2006 Mascoutah, IL Management
   I would love to get into the sport of boxing. I am naturally strong and have more heart and soul than I can contend with. Would love for someone to train me.
Traci Wilson Jan 17, 2006 Maumelle,AR 72113 maintenence at a truck stop
   I'm very interested in boxing and im trying to receive all the information and help I can get. There is nothing arond my area that I know of. If anyone can help please contact me. Thankyou
Aaliyah Rodriguez Jan 20, 2006 wilmington, DE school
   "I wanna box cuz it seems like something i like to do and because i wnna be able to defend my self when need to its jus something i wanna learn for self defence basically"
Bo Jan 29, 2006 South Snohomish Realtor/Boxing trainer
   Anyone interested in boxing lessons, e-mail me for info. I coach in the South Snohomish area, men, women, kids, regardless of experience or goals. All welcome. star_13th@msn.com
ann Feb 06, 2006 Seattle lost
   Please help me get involved in boxin, am ready
donald Mar 21, 2006 waukegan il high school student (15 YEAR O
   I AM A 15 YEAR OLD HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT I WANT TO TAKE BOXIND CLASSES IF THERE ARE ANY CLOSE BY CCAN YOU PLZ E MAIL ME
Montu Mar 27, 2006 New Delhi Student
   I am from New Delhi , India I love watching boxing and I no longer want to be the spectator. I want to learn the art of Boxing. I am looking for boxing classes , if anyone who could help me please send an email to me. That would be the greatest thing done to me ever.
ashlee Jun 07, 2006 federal way student
   hey i am looking for a place that will take me in to be a boxer. i would put my WHOLE LIFE in to boxing. if you nowhere i can go in state of washington please e-mail me. NO INDOOR FITNESS BOXING.(no 24 hour or bally stuff) i want a real boxing place so i can become a real professional boxer!!

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