Brayden
Coach
What are you up to outside of the ring?
Outside the ring, I currently am employed as a Restorative Justice Caseworker and a part-time student at the University of Victoria completing my second degree in a Bachelor of Social Work. I love competing in various sports and spend a lot of time outdoors and at the beach when the weather is warm.
How did it feel the first time you got punched in the face?
Mindboggling! After months of working on the heavy bag, and completing pad drills, you completely forget that when sparring with another member, they punch back! Eventually, it is something you accept, enjoying the challenge of working on your craft and knowing that even the best boxers in the world often get punched as well.
What is your favourite part of training?
My favourite part of training is the team approach at Q-Rules. We are in the training sessions together and it motivates me to work harder and never give up.
What makes a good boxing coach?
I think a good boxing coach needs to be someone who motivates to be your best self inside and outside the gym, with positive encouragement and makes you feel comfortable being a part of the boxing community. A good boxing coach needs to be aware of the skill levels in a class, constantly adjusting their coaching styles to fit the needs of the boxer’s abilities to make it a fun, learning environment.
What’s your favourite combination?
I’d have to go with a double jab, cross, slip or roll into the lead hook to the body (liver shot) and pivot out to readjust your position on your opponent. The double jab, cross makes your opponent tighten and shell their hands up, if they attempt to counter with a cross or hook, their body is exposed leading up to a deadly body hook.
What’s on your typical playlist?
When I say I listen to absolutely everything, I literally mean everything! My genres could begin with a lot of rap/hip hop then completely flip into alternative rock. Coach Greg’s playlists have even begun to grow on me including: The Backstreet Boys, Lizzo, Dolly Parton, etc. to get the members fired up to punch.
What kind of drills can we expect from your class?
A mix of everything between a solid refresher of the basic combos, shadow boxing, technical moves, burns and fitness rounds. Being a great boxer and coach requires understanding there is always work/drills to be done from a foundational level then continue to build.
Who’s your favourite boxer or athlete?
Saul “Canelo” Alvarez was bullied from a young age because he had red hair, freckles and pale skin. He looked Irish rather than his Mexican descent. His brother urged him to use his fists to fight back, and it took him time to find the courage to stand up. At age 11, he stood up to a bully in his neighbourhood who was ridiculing him for his appearance. Everyone was surprised when he let his hands go, defeating the bigger bully. He realized then everything would change for him. Canelo rose through the amateur ranks at the young age of 15. He was soon celebrated across Mexico as “Canelo” for his nickname alluding to his cinnamon colouring. Canelo now boasts one of the best professional records of all time. Canelo is a role model to me for his quiet and humble nature. He is highlighted as our generation's greatest pound for pound boxer.
How do you think boxing enhances your life?
Queensberry Rules has been a blessing for me. I started boxing back in 2019 and fell in love with the sport. A new challenge/skill, friendships, stress reliever, confidence booster, and it is so much dang fun. I highly recommend anyone, whether you never boxed before or are great at it to come check out our gym at Q-Rules in Dartmouth. It’ll change your physical and mental health for the better!