From memorable fights to quiet moments of encouragement, AQ Boxing has left its mark on countless students. One standout memory for Josh and Henry: facing each other in backto-back Mission Bouts, both winning “Fight of the Night” honors and raising their hands together—not for victory, but in recognition of shared dedication, respect, and growth. A LEGACY THAT LIVES ON As Coach Dom steps back, the values he instilled—discipline, perseverance, kindness, and community—remain at the program’s core. With Henry and Josh at the helm, Aquinas Boxing is poised not only to continue, but to flourish. The program remains a space where students can grow, learn, and thrive, creating hidden stories that will echo through generations. “We want these kids to look back in 5, 10, or even 20 years and remember this program with the same love and fondness we have for it.” – HENRY KAESTER Boxing at Aquinas is more than a sport. It is a legacy. It is a family. And as the gloves are passed to the next generation, one thing is certain: the heart of AQ Boxing beats stronger than ever. 15 MUHAMMAD ALI VISITS AQ (1994): When the legendary Muhammad Ali came to Aquinas, he left more than autographs—he left wisdom. His advice to Coach Dom? “You’re the coach. Don’t screw it up.” ALUMNI RALLY FOR THE MISSION BOUTS (2020): Even a global pandemic couldn’t stop the AQ boxing tradition. Alumni returned to organize an incredible Mission Bouts show, demonstrating how deeply the program connects generations of students and families. 94TH MISSION BOUTS (2026): The AQ Boxing Team is offering a complimentary ticket to all AQ alumni boxers! Scan the QR code on the back cover of this magazine to get your ticket today. This year’s Mission Bouts are on Friday, March 6, 2026 – doors open at 6:30 p.m., first fight at 7:00 p.m. inside the Wegman-Napier Gymnasium at the Aquinas Institute. AQ’S FIRST FEMALE BOXERS (1993): The program welcomed Kimberly (Fritz) Mackmin ’94 and Kimberly (Coniff) Rouleau ’93—now an AQ English teacher—as its first female boxers, embracing them with open arms and showing that courage, determination, and heart know no gender. Their presence opened doors for generations of young women to follow. HONORING COACH DOM Both men credit Coach Dom with shaping who they are today. As Henry reflects, “Coach Dom has taught me more than I can put into words. From boxing to coaching to running a business, so many of the lessons I carry came from him. Most importantly, he taught me to be kind, to listen, and to understand people. He is the most Christ-like person I know, and every day I strive to live up to the example he set.” Josh adds, “Dom taught me confidence, patience, grit, and—most of all—to be kind and respectful. He showed me how to be a better boxer and coach, but above everything, he taught me how to be a good person.”
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