By Michael Uugwanga

WHILE  boxing has historically been male-dominated with significant past stigma against women, today it is recognized as a powerful fitness option for all genders and continues to evolve.  Boxing is now an inclusive sport with growing female participation. In Namibia, the number of female boxers might to be that high when comparing to other African countries, due to the restrictions of women participations, especially when it comes to the professional, unlike at the amateur level.

This week Confidente caught up with an amateur female boxer, Erika Grosscella Nawases, who is making a big name for herself in the sport of boxing. This presents serious risks of traumatic brain injury, including concussions and chronic conditions like chronic traumatic encephalopathy, which can lead to memory loss, mood changes, and neurological decline. Nawases is now a regional winner, following her silver medal win at the African Union Sports Council (AUSC) Region Five youth tournament that was held in Namibia from 04 to 13 July.  “I started boxing in 2020, because my father was also a boxer. Khorixas Boxing Academy is where I started and still training. Boxing is a fan sport as it has taught me disciplined, not only during training but also when I am at home.  I am a grade nine (9) learner at Wellwisher secondary school. I have eight (8) amateur boxing fights, no loses this was my first time that I got a silver medal at such a prestigious competition. I felt so proud of myself for winning a silver medal for my country and I also felt so good to represent my country as a female boxer,” said Nawases.

Just like in any sport, every upcoming athlete has always that one athlete that has inspired him or her or even to an extend to emulate that athletes that has become a global icon, with Nawases no exception to that, but that comes with hard-work, discipline and commitment.

“Muhammed Ali (late), because I love the why he moved and the why he used to box as he made boxing look so easy. My parents do not have a problem with me boxing but my friends used to tell me that boxing is not good for female but I keep on pushing myself to become someone better in life. With boxing I will be able to travel and see the world and also make friends outside and inside the country,” said Nawases.