As the crashing of water from the Sombrilla fountain grew, people gathered and conversed around tables, waiting to get a small taste of what the brand-new UT San Antonio Boxing Club had to offer. Club-goers were anxious to see if they have what it takes. The meeting was led by President Cameron Rankin and Instructor Brando Serrato, San Antonio College’s Boxing Team’s finest. They have brought their talents and expertise to UT San Antonio to teach students the art of boxing. The two have competed in 26 amateur fights, with Rankin earning two regional titles.
The meeting on Feb. 18 began with Rankin taking a headcount and having everyone introduce themselves by name, major and boxing experience. Most members attending had little to no experience, allowing a sense of ease to settle upon the group as everyone was on the same playing field. After introductions, Rankin immediately got up, clapped and asked the group, “Alright! Y’all ready to work out?” With the energy rising, they led the group to the field next to the library. Instructors did not hesitate to direct the group into stretches and a light jog to assess where the group was fitness-wise.
“I am a firm believer that boxing saves lives; it saved mine,” Rankin explained. “There’s a certain type of person who wants to fight and that person needs structure and discipline. That’s how I found boxing at San Antonio College. Now I’m bringing the same thing here.”
As the group finished warm-ups, they gathered around to hear the instructors discuss the fundamentals of striking, footwork and defense. The lesson started with three different strikes — jab, cross and lead hook — before moving onto defensive work, slipping and rolling to dodge punches. As the group took direction, both instructors observed, correcting members’ form or offering guidance on using their bodies more effectively. As time went on, the members became more comfortable and fluid in their movements.
Although the group currently does not have all the facilities it needs to get the most out of training sessions, the instructors have made the best of what was available, using the field to host their training sessions.
“We don’t need much from [UT San Antonio] other than a space and to allow contact, but we are not sure if they’ll allow that.” Rankin said.
Since the club was founded this semester, many factors remain up in the air. Yet this does not discourage Rankin and Serrato’s motivation to build the club, as they want to use this as a stepping stone for UT San Antonio to take notice and fully support their vision and boxing at the university.
“I want to give people an outlet and hopefully create a strong team here at UT San Antonio,” Raskin explained. “So we can go and compete outside of here, other gyms and other colleges. I think that’d be nice, but for right now it is one step at a time.”
With the workout coming to an end, it is clear that this club has the potential to be more than just boxing. It provides a way to build character, discipline and a community. Members who entered as strangers could be seen laughing and practicing together as if they were lifelong friends.
Boxing Club meets every Tuesday, Thursday and from 3:30-5:30 p.m. at the fountain in Sombrilla Plaza.
