City Kickboxing Coach Launches Trust to Combat Coward Punches

Eugene Bareman, the head coach of City Kickboxing in Auckland, is taking decisive action against the issue of coward punches, a form of attack that leaves victims vulnerable and defenseless. In 2023, Bareman established the Walk Without Fear Trust to advocate for stricter penalties and to raise awareness about the devastating impact of such assaults. His initiative was inspired by a personal tragedy: the death of his athlete, Fau Vake, who succumbed to injuries in 2021 after suffering a coward punch. The attacker in that case received a sentence of two years and nine months for manslaughter.

Bareman’s efforts gained renewed urgency following a recent incident in New Plymouth, where a man named Daniel Nganeko was killed after being attacked outside a rugby clubroom. A 22-year-old man has pleaded guilty to manslaughter in connection with Nganeko’s death and is set for sentencing in October 2023. These high-profile cases highlight a troubling trend, and Bareman is determined to bring attention to the issue.

Raising Awareness and Advocating Change

Since launching the Walk Without Fear Trust, Bareman has encountered numerous stories of coward punch incidents. Many of these attacks go unreported, as victims may recover quickly and choose not to involve law enforcement. “People often get up and dust themselves off, which can lead to a lack of awareness about the severity of these assaults,” Bareman explained. His mission is to ensure that the public understands the gravity of coward punches and the lasting effects they can have on individuals and communities.

The trust aims not only to advocate for harsher punishments but also to provide support for victims and their families. Bareman believes that increased awareness can lead to more significant societal changes and ultimately reduce the occurrence of such violent acts. The goal is to create a safer environment where individuals can feel secure in their daily lives.

Community Response and Future Plans

The response from the community has been overwhelmingly supportive, with many rallying behind Bareman’s cause. Local organizations and citizens are coming together to raise funds and promote the Walk Without Fear Trust, further amplifying its message. Bareman is hopeful that this collective effort will lead to legislative changes that address the issue of coward punches more effectively.

As the trust moves forward, Bareman plans to engage in educational campaigns aimed at teaching the public about the implications of coward punches and the importance of reporting such incidents. By fostering a culture of awareness and accountability, he hopes to inspire a shift in public perception regarding violence and its consequences.

Through his dedication, Eugene Bareman is not only honoring the memory of Fau Vake but also taking proactive steps to safeguard future generations from the dangers of coward punches. The establishment of the Walk Without Fear Trust marks a critical step towards creating a safer society, where individuals can walk without fear of unprovoked violence.