Coach Eugene Bareman Advocates for Action Against Coward Punches

Eugene Bareman, head coach at Auckland’s City Kickboxing, is taking a stand against a growing issue in New Zealand: coward punches. In 2023, he established the Walk Without Fear Trust to increase awareness and advocate for tougher penalties for these types of attacks, where victims are struck suddenly and without warning, leaving them defenseless.

This initiative was born out of tragedy. The trust was a direct response to the death of Fau Vake, a promising athlete from Bareman’s team, who passed away in hospital following a coward punch incident in 2021. The assailant in that case received a sentence of two years and nine months for manslaughter. The issue resurfaced recently when Daniel Nganeko, a resident of New Plymouth, was fatally attacked outside a rugby club. A 22-year-old suspect has since pleaded guilty to manslaughter, with sentencing set for October 2023.

Addressing a Growing Concern

Since launching the Walk Without Fear Trust, Bareman has been vocal about the need for societal change. He emphasizes that many stories of coward punches go untold, as victims often choose to walk away from their experiences rather than report them. “I’ve heard numerous accounts since starting the trust,” Bareman stated. “Many victims can get up and dust themselves off, but that doesn’t diminish the trauma they experience.”

The impact of these attacks is profound, not just on the victims but also on their communities. Bareman aims to shed light on the psychological and physical repercussions that can linger long after the incident. His trust focuses on educating the public about the dangers and consequences of such violence, advocating for a shift in how these incidents are perceived and handled by authorities.

A Call for Stronger Legislation

As the issue of coward punches gains more attention, Bareman is pushing for legislative changes that would impose stricter penalties for offenders. He believes that harsher consequences could deter potential attackers and foster a safer environment for everyone. “We need to make it clear that these acts of violence will not be tolerated,” he remarked.

With his initiative, Bareman is not only honoring the memory of Vake but also striving to create a legacy that protects future generations from similar tragedies. As the legal proceedings for Nganeko’s case unfold, his call for change resonates deeply within the community and beyond.

Through the Walk Without Fear Trust, Bareman continues to advocate for those who have suffered in silence, aiming to empower victims and educate society on the importance of addressing coward punches seriously. His efforts exemplify a commitment to fostering a culture of awareness and accountability in New Zealand and potentially beyond.