– I was a big martial arts competitor in high school, and that transitioned into college. When I graduated college, I became interested in kickboxing. I had really good kicks, but weak hands, so I wanted to take kickboxing classes. After I walked into that gym, I never walked out again. I loved it.
What is the mental attitude of being a boxer?
-Although there is always an opponent in the ring, you’re really competing against yourself. I’m always thinking, “How can I make myself excel? What can I do to be better focused and have better drive?” For me, it’s about striving to be better than I was yesterday.
Tell us about your diet and eating habits.
-Being a boxer is a strict lifestyle, and it really is a full-time job. Since boxing is a weighted sport, there is a 10 pound range that you have to stay in. You need to eat clean and live clean. Unlike other sports that you “play,” you don’t play boxing. You have to make it a lifestyle.
You quit your job as a TV producer to train – tell us about that.
-I was working at a FOX affiliate in Albany. The cool thing about having a dream in the workplace is that I immediately had 100 fans. Everyone is very supportive and takes an interest in what you do – people were always asking, “When’s the next boxing match?” I was a producer for eight years, but then moved to New York City where the best trainers were located. I took out a loan and basically lived at the Poughkeepsie train station for six months to be close to the training center.
Why did you need to take out a loan? Other countries financially support Olympic athletes, is America struggling with that?
-It’s not necessarily that America is struggling, all athletes struggle. Until you reach the endorsement level and you’re a top recognized athlete, you’re on your own. To get to that level is a struggle, and it’s very hard to afford.
Tell us about your work with Adecco
-I’m a retired boxer now, so I got a job working for Adecco, the leading provider of temporary staffing solutions. Adecc is partnered with the USOC and Olympic sponsor companies. They place Team USA athletes in jobs that are flexible in accordance to their travel and Olympic schedule. I’m so proud to help athletes find jobs with Fortune 500 companies and to get career skills while they are still training.
How do companies become involved with Adecco?
-Adecco works closely with Olympic sponsor companies. Adecco also has a whole network of services and works with thousands of companies across the country.
Does Adecco help all Olympic athletes?
-Adecco works with elite Olympic and Paralympic athletes. Not only do they help place them in jobs, but they also offer career services including career training, resume assistance, and career planning.
Does Adecco continue to work with these athletes prior to the Olympics?
-Yes, Adecco works with these athletes through their career experiences. The companies agree to give these athletes a flexible schedule while they are training and competing. It’s really a win/win situation. The companies are getting talented employees who know about focus and drive, and the athletes are getting valuable career experience.
Tell us about your job with Adecco.
– I am a Specialist for Team USA. I bring in athletes and assist in the enrollment process. I hook them up with a career coach. I also reach out to the Olympic sponsor companies to place athletes in positions.
Where are you currently located?
-I work at the Adecco headquarters in Colorado Springs. Adecco also has locations in Chula Vista, California and Lake Placid, New York.
What is good news for you?
-Women’s boxing is making its Olympic debut in 2012, and I’m proud to be a part of that. This is the first time that women and men are represented in all Olympic sports.
