When Caroline Veyre knocked on the gym door asking me to coach her, my answer was simple: I’m sorry, I don’t have the time…
Not because I doubted her, but because I take the role of coach very seriously. Offering anything less than what I consider quality guidance is simply not an option. Every athlete deserves 100% commitment — otherwise, we’re on the wrong track from the start. We have to remember that athletes put their health on the line every time they step into the ring.
Photo: Vincent Ethier – Caroline Veyre – Leïla Beaudoin – Cherneka Johnson
At that time, boxer Leïla Beaudoin was preparing for a fight, so I suggested that Caroline join our training camp while she looked for a long-term coach. It was great for Leïla — and, as it turns out, great for Caroline too!
Well… Caroline never did find another coach. I’m the one who ended up being won over.
Caroline quickly impressed me with her discipline, determination, and her ability to reinvent herself. She came in as an athlete at a crossroads and has since become a boxer on the rise. She belongs in this gym. She earned her place in my schedule. And she earned my trust.
Photo: Vincent Ethier – Caroline Veyre and Samuel Décarie-Drolet
On July 26th, she will step into the ring for the most important fight of her career, against French boxer Licia Boudersa, for the WBC Silver title. It will be a huge challenge. But honestly, I’m not worried — the homework has been done.
I deeply believe in all the work she has put in. And I’m convinced she will prove that night that she deserves a shot at the world title.
