Leisure Pursuits

Name:
Ashley “Wallopin’” Walters, assistant professor of Jewish Studies and director, Pearlstine/Lipov Center for Southern Jewish Culture

Hometown:
Randolph, N.Y.

Hobby:
Boxing

Bob and Weave:
My husband has been training and coaching at Hurricane Boxing for several years now. He continually encouraged me to give boxing a try, but I had a very unfavorable impression of the sport, especially the thought of getting punched in the face.

The Hook:
In December 2023, I finally went to a class and loved it. I’ve really fallen in love with this beautiful, crazy and humbling sport.

Decision:
I recently lost my sister-in-law at the age of 41 for an unknown health reason. Her premature death really shook me to my core and made me start prioritizing my health. It’s what prompted me to finally set foot in the boxing gym. Boxing is truly unlike any other workout, and my fitness has improved dramatically.

Promoter:
At Hurricane Boxing, we have one of the largest groups of women boxers in the state and a fantastic community of women supporting women inside and outside of the ring. The Hurricane Boxing Foundation and coaches like Michael Golemis have dedicated countless hours to building up the sport of boxing, especially among underprivileged youth.

Purse:
I competed in the 2025 Battle on the Bricks charitable tournament to fight for a cause that is bigger than myself. The real fighters are the children fighting for their lives at MUSC Children’s Hospital, the veterans of the Warriors Surf Foundation and the student-athletes (many of whom take my classes) who train day in and day out to compete on behalf of the College.