In a boxing gym in Saskatoon, Havanna Demers demonstrates her skill and precision as she swiftly moves across the floor, delivering punches with determination. The 16-year-old, hailing from Rapid View, Saskatchewan, a small town located about 260 kilometers northwest of Saskatoon, dedicates herself to training and has achieved notable success both nationally and internationally.
As a two-time national medalist and four-time Saskatchewan provincial champion, Havanna has been chosen to represent Canada at the World Boxing Futures Cup in Bangkok, Thailand, a significant event that serves as a qualifying competition for the Youth Olympic Games in Dakar, Senegal later this year. The Youth Olympic Games is a global multi-sport event for athletes aged 15 to 18, overseen by the International Olympic Committee.
Expressing her excitement and pride, Havanna acknowledges the hard work ahead, emphasizing the rigorous training required for such high-level competitions. Her journey into boxing began at the age of seven, inspired by her sister’s involvement in martial arts, and has since evolved into a deep passion for the sport’s technical aspects and strategic complexities.
Having recently trained at Boxing Canada’s national center in Montreal, where she sparred with elite boxers from across the country, Havanna’s unique and “awkward” style has been recognized as an asset by her coaches. Her father, Quenten Demers, who manages Demers Boxing in their hometown, serves as her primary coach and unwavering supporter throughout her boxing endeavors.
Quenten, a former high-level boxer himself, expresses immense pride in his daughters’ accomplishments, noting the emotional fulfillment of witnessing their success. Standing tall at six feet, Havanna’s physical advantages combined with her unwavering determination set her apart in the ring, showcasing her resilience and competitive spirit.
Despite facing challenges in finding suitable competition locally and often having to travel outside of Saskatchewan for fights, Havanna remains dedicated to her craft. Her commitment to coaching younger boxers in her community and her decision to prioritize qualifying for the Youth Olympics over other championships demonstrate her focus and determination to achieve her Olympic dreams.
Looking ahead to the future, both Havanna and her father recognize the significance of the upcoming competitions as pivotal moments in her boxing career. With her sights set on the Youth Olympics, Havanna is prepared to train rigorously and fight fiercely to make her mark on the international stage.