For Jaco Crouse, stepping into the boxing ring for the Fight to End Cancer (FTEC) was much more than accepting a personal challenge—it became a deeply meaningful tribute to loved ones, a powerful act of resilience, and a rallying call to unite his community. Through his dedication to this cause and gruelling preparation to face his opponent, Jaco demonstrates that the fight against cancer is one that transcends the physical realm.
The Personal Connection That Fuels His Resolve
Few things can redefine a person’s perspective on life like the experience of witnessing loved ones battle cancer. For Jaco, the past year has been particularly difficult, with his aunt, uncle, and father all diagnosed with the disease. Among them, it was his aunt’s incredible bravery that lit the fire for his FTEC campaign and inspired him to act.
“I realised that cancer is not just someone else’s fight—it’s everyone’s fight. This is no longer a battle we can stand by and watch; it’s time to step up and do something,” Jaco shared, encapsulating his resolve during our interview.
That sentiment became the bedrock of his journey, providing the motivation to face the physical, emotional, and mental challenges of training while honouring his family’s perseverance.
From Marathons to the Ring: A Fighter’s Evolution
As a seasoned marathon runner, Jaco thought he was prepared to tackle the physical demands of boxing—but he soon learned that stepping into the ring required a whole new level of grit. With a rigorous training schedule of twice-daily sessions, six days a week, Jaco admits that boxing has pushed him harder than he has ever pushed himself before.
“The steep learning curve has been humbling,” he said. “As intense as the training has been, our incredible coaches at The Kingsway Boxing Club have made it rewarding. They’ve taught us the essentials, especially defensive responsibility, which is probably the most important skill in the ring.”
For Jaco, the process has been as much about mental growth as physical conditioning. Drawing inspiration from author Brad Stulberg’s philosophy, he shared, “I don’t aim to be the best—I aim to be the best at getting better.”
Community Power: Turning a Cause Into Collective Action
Coming from South Africa, Jaco understands the power of unity firsthand. Channeling this shared cultural value, he centered his FTEC fundraising campaign around rallying his community and bringing his “tribe” together to support the Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation. From backyard BBQs to generous support from his network within the mining industry, Jaco successfully united his local South African community in Canada to back his fight for such an important cause.
“The response has honestly been overwhelming. People have shown up, both emotionally and financially, and I’ve been humbled to surpass my fundraising goal of $30,000,” Jaco explained with gratitude.
It’s this collective spirit of action that Jaco hopes to spread. His success is proof that individual initiative, when supported by the power of community, can make a real difference in the fight against cancer.
Training Body and Mind: Preparing for Fight Night
Jaco’s preparation for Fight to End Cancer has been both physical and mental. On the physical front, his gym sessions and roadwork have built the stamina needed to endure the high-intensity demands of a boxing match. But, for Jaco, mental readiness has been equally important—if not more so.
Through daily meditation, visualisation exercises, and extensive study of fight footage, Jaco has honed his focus and crafted strategies for Fight Night. He credits EMDR therapy with Valerie Campbell as instrumental in helping him stay mentally sound amidst the pressures of training, injuries, and balancing his professional life.
“I’ve grown to love the strategic side of boxing—it’s like playing a physical version of chess. Every punch has a purpose, every move has to be calculated, and that’s what makes this sport so fascinating,” he reflected.
Excitement for the Gala Event
When asked what he’s looking forward to most at the upcoming gala, Jaco’s answer was brimming with enthusiasm.
“I’m excited for everything—the raffle baskets, the silent auction, spending an evening surrounded by family, friends, and colleagues. But above all, I’m eager to showcase the boxing skills I’ve been working so hard on these last five months. It’s going to be a celebration of all the effort, sacrifice, and unity that has brought us to this moment.”
It’s not just another fight night—it’s a culmination of everything Jaco has spent months pouring his energy into. For him, this event is about the people who’ve supported the cause, the fighters who’ve trained endlessly, and the hope that it all brings to those affected by cancer.
Why Jaco Believes Others Should Join the Fight
As our conversation came to a close, Jaco shared an important message for anyone thinking about stepping into the ring in the future:
“This has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. If you’re looking for a challenge—a challenge that pushes you physically, mentally and emotionally—then join the Fight to End Cancer. You’ll gain a family in Kingsway Boxing Club, master a totally new set of skills, and become part of something that’s bigger than yourself. It’s something I’ll never forget—and I hope more people take this leap.”
Jaco Crouse’s Legacy in the Ring
Jaco’s journey exemplifies what it means to channel strength and purpose into a fight that matters to everyone. Whether raising funds, perfecting his skills, or rallying his community, he has shown that each of us has the power to make a difference in the fight against cancer. In the ring and beyond, Jaco stands ready to fight—for his family, for his friends, and for a future free of cancer.
Join the Movement
You can support fighters like Jaco and the Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation by visiting Fight to End Cancer. Whether you donate, attend the gala, or train for next year’s event yourself, every gesture helps knock out cancer once and for all.
