"For a Good Cause": FDNY Boxing Team

Many parallels exist between a boxer and a firefighter. It is an occupation both daring and dangerous. Both risk harm towards their own health. However, there are key differences between the two roles, and can be summarized in one word: selflessness. The boxer relishes in leading a performance with punishing choreography. The firefighter holds a moral obligation to help others.

While a boxer might fight for a larger cause or personal mission, the firefighter possesses a unique DNA that can’t be distilled or emulated. They possess a certain personality. One that is willing to run towards danger - not away from it - in order to help others. It comes as no shock that a sport like boxing attracts these individuals. A sport that provides those who are willing to test themselves and their innate traits as a means of competition.

Since FDNY Bravest Boxing's inception in 1982, the team has kept close to their motto “we will fight anyone, anywhere, anytime, for a good cause” by stepping into the ring to serve others. Often pitted against rivals in law enforcement both local and international, the bouts raise money to sold out crowds for charity. Regardless of the outcome, the team works hard at plugging away during the unaccounted hours not to just hone their skills, but to ensure they can deliver on their mission to help those in need.

I had the chance to follow members of the EMS team to a match up again the Philadelphia Police Department. While the team walked away with one win and two losses, their sense of personal duty to the mission of helping others weren’t overshadowed by the results. The fighters walked away with their heads held high knowing their hard work was a gift of their truest nature in giving service towards others.