Like many amateur boxers, Maureeca Lambert-Stefanski also competed in a different sport prior to boxing. "I was a runner from 5th grade through college" she explained but due to several injuries and the growing frustrations that come from being on the sidelines her husband, then boyfriend, suggested a change could be helpful. "He thought I would enjoy something new and he was right!" Her husband eventually purchased a Groupon in 2012 to a boxing gym located in the northwest suburbs of Chicago to test it out and right away she knew she wanted to compete. Her first fight ended up being only 4 months after stepping into the gym.
"I know I am directly responsible for the success I have." she states, this statement encapsulates the work ethic and dedication that Maureeca has developed over the years of competing at a high level. That mindset along with her athletic ability to continue to push herself to higher levels have earned her 3 Chicago Golden Gloves Titles, 2 National Golden Gloves Titles and her victory at the USA Boxing Nationals in 2015! Her National Championship win secured her a spot on Team USA that same year where she was able to compete and win internationally against China!
Nowadays you can find Maureeca perfecting her technique at the respected 'Oakley Fight Club' gym in Chicago when she is not caring for her twin 16 month old daughters. The satisfaction of noticing improvements from fight to fight and her competitive nature to continue improving is what has fueled her drive to keep coming back. "Even if someone wins a fight by KO, there is something during that fight before that point that they could have done better." she explains, "That is what makes this sport so special."
Looking forward, Maureeca is looking to close out her excellent amature career with a successful showcasing in the WBC tournament in Chicago before focusing on her transition into the professional ranks in early 2018. Best of luck in your journey Maureeca!
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