In the ring, Victoria Vergos embodies the ‘sweet science’ of boxing, but as a Brock University Kinesiology student, she’s mastering the science of movement to deliver powerful punches on a global stage.

As she prepares to represent Canada at the World Boxing U19 Championships in Colorado on Saturday, Oct. 26, the first-year Kinesiology student from Hamilton is treating boxing as more than just a sport; it’s a way of life.

“I picked Brock because it proved to be a supportive learning environment, especially for those who are balancing extracurricular activities and sports,” Vergos said. “I specifically chose Kinesiology because it aligns with my passion regarding physical activity and health science. I enjoy everything that comes with it and am planning on minoring in Psychology to explore the mental aspect of this passion.”

While boxing requires physical toughness, Vergos stresses the importance of mental strength. Inspired by her own challenges in the sport, she started a podcast focusing on the mental aspect of athletics.

“I realized how crucial mentality is,” she said. “Creating the podcast allowed me to share my experiences and learn more about myself along the way.”

Vergos’ athletic story began at just six years old when her parents sought to channel her endless energy into something productive. She joined a gymnastics club, quickly excelling in the sport and competing provincially.

“Gymnastics taught me discipline and sacrifice early on,” she said. “There were days I didn’t want to train, but I had to push through, and that foundation helped me when I transitioned to boxing.”

The transition wasn’t planned, but when COVID-19 hit, Vergos began pad work with her father, a former boxer and current coach, sparking a new passion.

“I was 13, and I remember thinking how different and exciting boxing felt,” she said. “It wasn’t something a typical 13-year-old girl would gravitate towards, and that made me love it even more.”

Despite initial skepticism from her parents about the switch, her father’s support became crucial.

“My dad would show me legendary fights, like those of Muhammad Ali and Joe Louis, and it all started to click,” Vergos said. “I felt like I was part of something bigger.”

Vergos’ journey wasn’t easy. Growing up, she often found herself sparring with boys due to the lack of female competitors.

“It was tough to find matches. Sometimes it was discouraging, but it made me stronger mentally,” she said. “You have to fight through those obstacles and look for opportunities like nationals or international competitions.”

Her resilience paid off. Vergos has travelled the globe, from national competitions to the Continentals in Colombia, where a tough loss in the first round pushed her to improve.

“That fight was one of my biggest learning experiences,” she said. “Losing doesn’t define your career; it shapes you. I went on a winning streak afterward and grew so much as a fighter.”

In March, she found triumph at the Junior and Youth Canadian Championships in Calgary, which earned her a spot at Worlds in Colorado.

As Vergos prepares for the world stage, her focus remains on balance — between school, boxing and life. Studying Kinesiology at Brock helps her understand the science behind her sport and pursue future career goals that align with her passion.

“Boxing is more than just stepping into the ring for me,” she said. “It opens so many doors, from sponsorships to connecting with people, and it’s something I want to continue pursuing both in and outside the ring.”