Eugene Bareman Advocates for Action Against Coward Punches

Auckland’s City Kickboxing head coach, Eugene Bareman, is taking a stand against what he describes as a growing concern within society: coward punches. In 2023, Bareman established the Walk Without Fear Trust to advocate for stricter penalties and to raise public awareness regarding these unprovoked attacks, where victims are caught completely off guard and unable to defend themselves. This initiative follows the tragic death of one of his athletes, Fau Vake, who succumbed to injuries sustained from such an attack in 2021.

Vake’s attacker received a sentence of two years and nine months for manslaughter, a verdict that Bareman believes does not adequately reflect the severity of these crimes. The issue was thrust back into public discourse last month when Daniel Nganeko was fatally assaulted outside a rugby clubroom in New Plymouth. In this case, a 22-year-old man has pleaded guilty to manslaughter and is scheduled for sentencing in October 2023.

Highlighting the Impact of Coward Punches

Since the inception of the Walk Without Fear Trust, Bareman has encountered numerous stories from victims of coward punches. He notes that many of these incidents remain unreported, as victims often feel compelled to get up and move on, rather than seek help or justice. This silence, he argues, contributes to a culture where such attacks can persist unchecked.

“These incidents can have devastating impacts,” Bareman explained. “We need to create an environment where victims feel safe to come forward and where society understands the gravity of these actions.” His goal is to foster a community dialogue around the issue, emphasizing the importance of accountability and support for those affected.

The trust not only focuses on advocacy for harsher penalties but also aims to educate the public about the consequences of coward punches. Bareman believes that raising awareness can lead to behavioral changes and ultimately contribute to a safer environment for everyone.

Community Response and Future Goals

The response to Bareman’s initiative has been largely positive, as community members rally around the cause. Many local leaders and organizations have expressed their support, recognizing the need for a collective effort to combat violence in all forms. Events and discussions organized by the Walk Without Fear Trust are designed to further engage the community and encourage participation in the movement against coward punches.

Moving forward, Bareman plans to collaborate with law enforcement and governmental bodies to push for legislative changes that would impose stricter penalties for those convicted of coward punches. He hopes to create a ripple effect, inspiring other regions to take similar actions to protect their communities.

As the conversation around coward punches continues, Bareman’s mission remains clear: to ensure that victims are heard, supported, and that those who commit such acts face appropriate consequences. The work of the Walk Without Fear Trust is just beginning, but its impact is already being felt across Auckland and beyond.