A Passion Turned into a Purpose

The ESSEC APAC Boxing Club was born from a shared passion between three students—Mara Mittelman, Pauline Richard, and Yike Zhang—who saw not only an opportunity to bring a new sport to campus but also a way to create an inclusive community centered on empowerment, fitness, and fun.

“We all had experience in different styles of boxing,” explains Mara, a junior world champion in French boxing. Pauline brought her background in Muay Thai, and Yike contributed his expertise in English boxing. Together, their diverse training laid the foundation for a truly unique club. But what united them was more than just their skills—it was the belief that boxing has something to offer everyone.

Building a Club From Scratch

The trio began by defining a vision focused on inclusiveness, technical progression, and a deep respect for the culture of boxing. From writing proposals to pitching their project to the school’s student association board, they worked tirelessly to bring the idea to life. The biggest hurdle? Logistics. “Finding training space, managing schedules, getting equipment—it all required creativity and resilience,” says Pauline.

But the campus response made the effort worthwhile. Students were curious, excited, and supportive. “Even those with no prior experience came forward—and now, many of them are regulars,” adds Yike.

A Welcoming Training Ground

From day one, the club was designed to welcome all levels. Beginners form a large part of the club’s community, and sessions are structured to ensure safety, comfort, and progression. “We always prioritize technique over power, and we make sure that no one feels pressured,” says Mara.

A typical training session starts with a warm-up, followed by basic punches like the jab and hook. Then comes an interactive reflex game like “shoulder tap,” and pad work to develop precision and coordination. Each class wraps up with a stretch and the fun-yet-challenging “Sally-Up” endurance game. The goal is to balance fitness, technique, and fun.

Sessions are led by student instructors themselves—rotating based on their strengths. And while the club is currently peer-led, they hope to invite professional coaches in the future.

Beyond the Ring

At its core, the club is more than just a place to work out. It’s about building confidence, relieving stress, and creating bonds. With over 40 active members, the Boxing Club has become a pillar of ESSEC APAC’s campus life. “For many, boxing is a way to disconnect from stress and reconnect with themselves,” says Pauline.

Some members have already grown into leadership roles, confidently leading warm-ups or mentoring beginners. “These small wins are our success stories,” Mara shares. “Seeing someone go from hesitant to empowered in just a few sessions—that’s the impact we aim for.”

Looking Ahead: Big Dreams, Bold Moves

Despite being student-run, the Boxing Club has big ambitions. Plans for the future include workshops, collaborations with local gyms, and even building a competitive team. “We’d love to organize sparring events or friendly inter-campus competitions. But for now, our focus is on accessibility and creating a space where everyone can feel safe and challenged,” says Yike.

Long-term, the team hopes to expand the club to ESSEC’s other campuses. “Boxing is universal—it connects people, builds resilience, and fosters discipline. There’s no reason this can’t grow into a cross-campus community.”

To support these dreams, the club is seeking partnerships with boxing coaches, gyms, and equipment suppliers. “Right now, we’re limited by resources,” Mara notes. “But with the right support, we can elevate what we offer.”

How to Join the Movement

Interested students can easily join by showing up at a session—no prior experience required. “We adapt to all levels, and you can even help with social media, event planning, or be part of the committee if you’re passionate,” says Pauline. “Even if you’re not training, you can contribute by cheering us on or just spreading the word.”

For those unsure about stepping into the ring, the founders have one message: don’t be intimidated. “Boxing isn’t about being the strongest—it’s about learning, growing, and stepping out of your comfort zone,” says Yike. “You’ll be surprised how empowering it can be.”