City Kickboxing Coach Fights Against Coward Punches

Eugene Bareman, the head coach at Auckland’s City Kickboxing gym, is taking a stand against “coward punches,” a term that refers to surprise attacks where victims are unprepared and unable to defend themselves. In 2023, Bareman established the Walk Without Fear Trust with the aim to advocate for stricter penalties and to raise awareness about the devastating effects of these attacks. This initiative was sparked by the tragic death of Fau Vake, a promising athlete from his gym, who succumbed to injuries in 2021 after being struck in such an attack.

The perpetrator of Vake’s death received a sentence of two years and nine months for manslaughter, a verdict that has fueled Bareman’s determination to seek justice for victims of similar offenses. The issue gained further attention last month following the death of Daniel Nganeko, who was killed outside a rugby clubroom in New Plymouth after being assaulted. A 22-year-old man involved has since pleaded guilty to manslaughter, with sentencing scheduled for October.

Raising Awareness and Seeking Justice

Since launching the Walk Without Fear Trust, Bareman has encountered numerous accounts of coward punches, many of which go unreported because victims are able to recover physically. This troubling trend has highlighted the need for a broader conversation around the issue.

“People often think that if someone gets up after being hit, it’s not serious,” Bareman stated. “But the emotional and psychological impact can be profound, and we need to change how society views these attacks.” His initiative focuses not only on advocating for tougher legal repercussions but also on educating the public about the dangers of such violence.

New Zealand has witnessed a concerning rise in violence related to coward punches, prompting calls for systemic changes in how incidents are addressed. Bareman’s trust aims to connect with lawmakers, community leaders, and the public to promote awareness and preventive measures.

The Path Forward

Bareman believes that through education and advocacy, the stigma surrounding coward punches can be diminished. He is committed to ensuring that victims are heard and that their experiences lead to meaningful changes in legislation.

In a society where many incidents remain unreported, the Walk Without Fear Trust serves as a crucial platform for victims and advocates alike. Bareman’s dedication to this cause reflects not only his commitment to his athletes but also his desire to foster a safer environment for all. As the discussions surrounding violence continue, the hope is that meaningful action will follow.