Meet Katy Kopec | Owner and Lead Coach, The Good Fight Boxing Gym

We had the good fortune of connecting with Katy Kopec and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Katy, what is the most important factor behind your success?
The most important factor in our success is staying true to our mission, vision, and values. This has allowed us to gain not just “clients” but relationships. We have built not just a business, but a community. Staying true to our mission has allowed us to attract and retain the people who need us. Boxing isn’t for everyone, nor should it be. It can, however, change lives for the people who love it. We have made some hard decisions along the way, but each time we stay the course, it pays off with growth.

Our Mission
To empower people in our community, through the Sweet Science, to conquer personal obstacles and achieve a better quality of life

Vision
Create a boxing community which supports and encourages the resilient spirit of one another and celebrates the craft of boxing

Values
Fundamental boxing training offers unique and exceptional physical and mental health benefits and should be accessible to any human who desires to learn, regardless of age, ability, background, or beliefs.

There is power in community.
We achieve more by supporting others with common struggles.

Humans are not defined by age, ability, life station, or a diagnosis.
We are more than conquerors.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
The Good Fight Boxing Gym challenges our members to identify obstacles in life and conquer them through the Sweet Science of BOXING, in a safe, stimulating, encouraging environment. We are honored to serve a beautifully diverse cross section of our community. Our members range from age 5 to 95, each with different abilities, backgrounds, and goals. Our family built the gym in 2019 with our own hands and savings. We moved to a larger space in 2022. This time our patrons helped build the space and have truly taken ownership in our boxing community. Since 2019, our mission, vision, and values have remained the same. As the business owner and lead coach, I prayerfully consider our mission statement daily, and encourage our coaches and volunteers to reflect on them each week.

While we remain true to the craft of traditional boxing, our gym is really about community. In our first four years of operation, we have watched relationships form and lives transform. I invite you to read the testimonials below and reach out to the patrons who have included their phone numbers for reference. I also invite Shout-Out Contributors to come glove-up and see why boxing at TGF is such a special experience!

Besides boxing training, our gym community comes together regularly to fellowship and support each other. We have hosted free clinics in support of National Suicide Prevention Month (“Bring a friend to Boxing!”), Cancer Survivorship (“KO Cancer”), and most recently to support our teens who are reeling from recent violence/ shootings. We are a registered USA Boxing LBC, and as such our young athletes compete in amateur events. We will host our first event, right here in Durango, in the summer of 2024! Since day one we have hosted classes for people fighting Parkinson’s disease. We also have classes especially for senior citizens three times weekly! I am especially proud of our intergenerational ministry. Any given day, you will see teenagers assistant coaching in our senior or peewee classes, and our older members showing up to cheer on our youth in sparring class. In fact, our tiny gym made such an overwhelming showing of support in our first competition (Albuquerque, January of this year), we were awarded “Outstanding Team.” The word “Team” really is key in that recognition. As in life, a fighter may feel alone in the ring, but they always have a corner. At The Good Fight Boxing Gym, we are in each others’ corner in this fight called life.

Of course this journey has not been easy. While I am a natural leader and encourager….I am NOT a natural business person! I continue to learn from mistakes, and from those around me in our wonderful Durango community. I have appreciated the flood of resources for small business owners, specifically women in this community. I am also greatly appreciative of the individuals and culture of USA Boxing. I feel incredibly supported as we learn to navigate the ins and outs of competitive boxing. USA Boxing is truly a fantastic organization and one of those rare places where gender, race, and background are neutralized. I am extremely grateful for the work of many women in amateur and professional boxing who have paved this path.

I want the world to know that we need each other. I have learned that I can do good things alone…because I am a smart and strong individual. However, I can facilitate LIFE-CHANGING things with help, because that is how God designed us. I want the world to know that boxing is not merely a brutish past time, but a craft that can give life.

I invite you to read the testimonials below…apologies for this lengthy response!! I am not sure if there is a more appropriate place to insert these, so here ya go:

Testimonials
(Note: I asked patrons to share about their gym experience for the purpose of this application. I am humbled and embarrassed that they kindly mention me by name in their testimonials, but I did not want to edit their responses by deleting the mentions. However, I take NO credit for the transformations. I am grateful for the opportunity to facilitate improvement in the lives of our beloved fighters.)

For the last 4 years The Good Fight Boxing Gym and Katy Kopec have been such an important part of my 17 year old son’s life. The Good Fight provided a sanctuary for him to rebuild himself when he was expelled from school for a year and had to find new community in Durango. The Good Fight provides a haven for many young men and women as well as seniors in Durango to be in a healthy community building both physical and mental/emotional skills through the art of boxing. Katy Kopec’s integrity and professionalism stand out as she continues to grow the Gym and everyone who goes there. The Good Fight Boxing Gym and Katy are staples of our small community and provide a huge service to keeping it healthy.
-Evonne Bentley 970-946-2591

The Good Fight Gym has been a game changer for my son who was struggling with mental health issues and addiction. He is now going boxing every day and is happy and healthy and enjoying life again. Thanks to the support and discipline of the team at TGF. We are so grateful! -Courtney G

I have been working out at the good fight boxing gym now for almost 4 years. I have been active my whole life, lifting weights, biking and running. After my first workouts boxing I thought my 49 year old body could only take two days a week. I was wrong. It became three, then four, and now I am at the gym for an hour a day five days a week. At my latest physical my doctor told me it has almost certainly added years to my life. Ms. Kopec’s expertise, enthusiasm, kindness, and understanding have given me extra years on this earth to enjoy my family, my friends, and all the bounty with which God has blessed me. It is difficult to imagine a greater gift. During my time at the gym I have had the privilege of watching Ms. Kopec in action. She has had a profound positive impact on many lives beyond mine. She gives of her time freely, helping people from Parkinson’s patients to teenagers. The help she provides troubled kids and adults is perhaps the most striking. Some context might be helpful. Success in boxing requires incredible amounts of hard work. The kid who looks up Floyd Mayweather on Youtube doesn’t have to get very deep into the videos to find out that he is famous for 3 a.m. runs around Las Vegas before his full day at the gym, striving to be literally indefatigable. Teaching children that success comes from hard work is one of the most important lessons we can impart. Ms. Kopec does it every day. Sometimes for free. She teaches humility at the same time. Good boxing form is made up of a thousand small things. Learning to throw a left hook makes a great example. To do it right, the rotation is mostly in your body, beginning with your left foot, magnified by your hips, focused by your abdomen, with the motion transferred by your shoulder down a direct path to your target (which means your upper arm and lower arm must be placed at an unnatural angle). Done right and the punch can be almost faster than the eye can follow, fluid and powerful at the same time. After almost four years of trying a few weeks ago I finally threw a hook combination that she said was just right. “I finally have it!” I thought. “I’m finally getting good at this!” Fifteen seconds later I dropped my hands during a sequence, which earned a small tap on the side of my head. The rookie mistake and her silent correction, slight frown, and the look she gave me brought me right back to earth. Cocky fighters tend to not stay cocky in her gym. If a boxer sticks with it, self reliance becomes necessary to success. You can rely on your coach during a workout, and Ms. Kopec is always there when you really need her. But in the ring you are alone in a profound way. For three minutes of every round you can’t stop; you can’t get sloppy, you must put forth the effort needed, no matter how much it hurts or how tired you get. You can’t run away, you can’t hide. You have to face your opponent whether you are winning or losing. She knows this, and through her coaching she subtly teaches athletes to push themselves, to take responsibility for their workouts, and to push through discomfort, fatigue, and pain. To me the lessons she teaches are those that might be the greatest gift possible to give a lost soul, whether that person is 13 or 50. She makes a difference in people’s lives. I’ve never known her to turn away someone for inability to pay, but I know she dips into her savings when necessary and I doubt she makes anything close to minimum wage for her efforts. She deserves all the support that our community can muster. A grant for the scholarship fund to help her help people who can’t pay is money well spent.
-Chris Hamilton 970-759-1321

I cannot say enough good things about “The Good Fight” boxing gym. As a mental health professional, I understand how important extracurricular engagement is for youth to develop resilience in life. My middle school son had never really found his place of belonging with sports or other activities until he joined The Good Fight. He loves coming to class each week and has taken full ownership of his process. He comes out sweaty and smiling which makes it worth every penny.
The energy, positivity, acceptance, and welcome that we have received from the very beginning is nothing short of incredible. The coaches are incredibly kind which makes the culture of the students kind as well. It makes me choke up a little reflecting on how thankful I am for this organization.
I have, and will continue to recommend The Good Fight to friends for their children, and would highly recommend your consideration for financial support of the gym. I cannot think of a more deserving recipient.
-Stephanie Pace

I don’t know what I would have done if I hadn’t found the groups at The Good Fight. About 6 months ago, I started going to the Boxing classes to help improve balance and movement issues related to Parkinson’s Disease. I am only 56 years old so the diagnosis and movement difficulties have been a huge adjustment for me. At first, I thought I was out of luck since I don’t live in an urban area where these services might be more readily available. Through word of mouth, I found Katy and her services. She and others have been so helpful and patient with me, to the point where I feel more stable now. I am looking forward to the new, larger facility and the new opportunities and equipment she has there.
Thank you for helping her continue this helpful service for us, allowing us to continue living full and productive lives despite a diagnosis of Parkinson’s Disease.
-Michael Young (Michael passed away this year. He boxed with us up until his last week on earth)

The Good Fight Boxing Gym means so much to me in so many ways. First, it’s a fantastic workout from head to toe, including cognitively. We do lots of core exercises, which is so important for elderly people like myself. Second, it’s led by Katy Kopec, who is so positive & patient & she really knows the sport. Boxing is also good if you have anger or depression or anxiety…boxing helps discharge those negative emotions & lift your spirits. There’s so much camaraderie in the gym, & there’s lots of laughter & fun. All segments of the population participate, & they provide guidance & direction for young people. It’s a place to meet up with friends & work hard, & I LOVE it!!!
-Karen Galleghar 281-705-5850

I’ve always struggled with weight and being comfortable in gyms because I was always worried of what others would think. I joined the Good Fight Boxing Gym 2 years ago. My first time meeting the owner Katy was amazing she made me feel comfortable to be in the gym despite my weight and ability. Since my first session I have been a regular member of the gym taking occasional breaks due to unfortunate out of gym circumstances. No matter what happened could always rely on Katy and the gym community we have to invite me back and be there to help get me back on track!
-Blue M

Walking into the Good Fight Boxing Gym gave me a new sense of strength and ability. Katy expects the most out of everyone, and shows you how you can be much stronger than you ever thought possible. The welcoming atmosphere and focus on inclusivity and accessibility makes everyone stronger together. The Good Fight is a special community that our town is lucky to have.
-Sarah K

Anyone who has had the privilege of finding their way to this boxing gym knows that it is both one of the best workouts in Durango, but more importantly, one of the best communities. I always leave class feeling strong, spent, and connected. consistently one of the best parts of my week – to show up, sweat, be challenged, be seen.
-Hannah S

The Good Fight Boxing Gym has transformed my life in ways I didn’t think were possible.
Before I started boxing, I struggled with low self-esteem and a lack of confidence. However, after attending my first class, something changed within me. Boxing quickly became more than just a physical activity; it was a lifestyle that cured me mentally and emotionally. But it wasn’t just the sport itself that changed me. It was the coach and the supportive community that made my boxing experience so cathartic. I had never been around such a positive, empowering, and supportive group of people before. The encouragement I received made me hungry for more transformative experiences. I was evermore eager to be better, both in the ring and outside of it.
Boxing is not just a sport; it is a journey of self-discovery, self-discipline, and empowerment. It made me realize that as a human being, I am capable of so much more than I ever believed. I am deeply grateful to Coach Katy and The Good Fight Boxing Gym for helping me become the best version of myself.
-Bri Ozvat

At 90 years of age I joined the Good Fight Boxing Gym and have received an exceptionally well designed exercise program which includes every element of sustained physical and mental health. I have good balance and endurance and the mental activity required to execute the required movements is extremely positive. The driving force here is Katy Kopec who is the finest coach and motivator of people of all ages I have encountered in my active lifetime. You will not find a better manager of your program. Importantly our boxing friends are dedicated to achieving their goals and to helping and motivating others to do the same. All of these invaluable factors will be provided to your scholars by The Good Fight Gym.
– George Keen

At 80 years old, I am one of the oldest participating in the boxing classes. I always look forward to each and every class. In my senior class we do not
hit each other, but we do train like boxers. I participate three times a week. We actually have more women than men who participate in our class. Through the classes, I have really enjoyed meeting a large number of new friends. I really look forward to the training and learning new skills directed by such a professional instructor in Katy. I get a lot of pleasure in being a boxer in the classes.
-Mike Elliot

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Oh wow, a week isn’t enough time! I would definitely go out on MANY hikes, exploring our jaw-dropping vistas…looking at our area from atop multiple peaks! We would eat at some of our favorite downtown restaurants, soak at Duragno Hot Springs, paddle board at Haviland lake, bike the river trial, swim at the Oxbow, worship at Summit Church, catch a show at the Durango Arts Center or Animas CIty Theater, and definitely hang out at the Main Mall in and near The Good Fight! When I say there is never a dull moment at the gym…I mean it! Any given day, the best and most diverse of Durango literally walks by or walks in.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
This may sound corny, but I must shout out to my family. When I moved to Durango, I was a single mom with two young children and zero intention of changing that. I had a solid, 20-plus-year career as a medical speech pathologist, which I loved, and no intention of changing that. Well, God had other plans, and I ended up renting a house literally on top of my now husband, Mat Robbins, and his two children. Mat recognized the spark in me and encouraged me to go out of my comfort zone and start a business. He is a skilled Timberframer, and he literally built the gym (and later a bigger gym!) for me. Mat, my children, and my bonus children supported and encouraged me to follow a path that seemingly made no sense for someone with a steady career. What some people labeled self-indulgent and risky, Mat and the kids named bold, necessary, and right. I can say with certainty, that every good thing that has come of this venture is owed entirely to my favorite people on earth: Ben, Elizabeth, and Mat Robbins.

Website: TheGoodFightDurango.com

Instagram: @thegoodfightboxinggym

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katykopec/

Other: Social media is DEFINITELY not my strength! I have a decent website (thanks to a member) and Instagram. Please let me know if the links provided are correct! My email address is also a good way to contact me TheGoodFightDurango@gmail.com