Dozens signed up for the chance to take part in the fourth edition of Agency Wars. Over several weeks, they tested their mettle against professional coaches, strict trainers and their own physical limitations. Twenty four of those brave souls have been chosen to enter the ring at Toronto’s Arcadian Court on Nov. 27.
Marketing is profiling the men and women who’ve shed blood, sweat and tears to help out two charities. What makes someone step in the ring? Meet the fighters for the Red and Blue teams to find out.
Megan Lubberts – Red Team
Job Title: Senior media executive
Agency: Mediacom
Nickname: Lights Out
Why did you decide to take part?
I’ve been trying to get into better shape, and I thought ‘why not try boxing. That’s a good way to get in shape.’ And really, it was just the challenge to push myself to the next limit.
Have you ever done anything like this before (boxing, fighting)?
I have not done anything like this before. Prior to this, I had been working with a personal trainer.
What’s the toughest part of training been?
Hill sprints were probably the least enjoyable part of this entire experience.
What do you like about it?
The team spirit that we have going on. We tend to laugh a lot and there are a lot of jokes. The girls on the Red Team have become really close, so now we are punching our friends in the face on our Saturday afternoons.
What message do you have for your opponent?
I don’t really have a message for her. It’s not personal for me. She’s just another obstacle for me to overcome.
Michelle McAdams – Blue Team
Job Title: Interactive Project Coordinator
Agency: One Advertising
Nickname: Murder
Why did you decide to take part?
It’s a very aggressive sport, which was interesting to me. I liked the fact that I’d have to be strong, that I’d have to be tough and I would have to be hit and hit people. And I would be able to do that legally. I’m open to confrontation. I like it. I can be pretty aggressive, and I get to take all my aggressions out physically.
Have you ever done anything like this before (boxing, fighting)?
I played competitive volleyball a little bit, years ago, but nothing close to this.
What’s the toughest part of training been?
I feel great now, but the first couple of weeks I felt terrible. I felt fat and tired and sore and just overworked. After that it got much better. It’s hard mentally doing things you think you can’t do. The training is about 20 to 25 hours a week—it’s like a part time job.
What do you like about it?
It’s a really difficult sport, because mentally there are a lot of things to consider, and you are getting hit while you are trying to figure out an action plan. So it’s physical and mental at the same time.
What message do you have for your opponent?
I’m sorry. There’s nothing else I can say to help her. So I’m sorry.
Learn more about Agency Wars IV, its boxers, coaches and training program at the event’s Facebook page.
