Lashley Training Center’s Member of the Month - October<~ Justin Hartshorn ~>

~ Lashley Training Center ~

By Matthew Gottermeyer

Justin Hartshorn, October’s member of the month, is following in his older brother’s footsteps. Johnathon, who’s trained at Lashley’s for years, had his first two amateur MMA fights in 2022. “I would definitely say Johnathon was an influence” says Justin, who is only 14 years old. The freshman at Mt Vernon High School also runs cross country, wrestles and plays in the marching band.

“I see myself as more of a boxer though than an MMA fighter.” What got him noticed at Lashley’s was his worth ethic. In the gym almost every day after school, the younger Hartshorn can be seen jumping rope, hitting the heavy bag, drilling and he’s consistently in boxing class every Monday and Wednesday night.

When asked what he appreciates most about Lashley’s, he says hands down it’s the support he gets from his coaches and teammates. “On my best days and on my worst days, these guys are always there for me.” He’s seen a change in his confidence, his discipline, and an improvement in his skills.

The orthodox fighter would like to get his first amateur bout in 2023 at 125lbs. The goal is to one day be a pro, but Justin (who’s already registered with USA Boxing) knows that dream starts with his first amateur fight. “For now, I’m having a lot of fun, and boxing’s a good release for stress in life, but I also want to keep on working hard so I can make this my living one day.”

“It’s like walking into a tunnel” he says “and at first, it’s completely dark. You keep on putting in the work though and you keep on walking and you start to see more and more light at the end of that tunnel.” No family of fighters could be without its rivalry and competitiveness so I had to ask; who would win a fight between you and Johnathon? “I would, definitely. No question about it” says Justin without any hesitation.

From all of us at Lashley Training Center, we thank you - Justin - for your dedication to our gym! Congratulations on being chosen as our October Member of the Month.