It wasn’t a lifelong dream or some grand inspiration that got Harley Lankford into boxing—she just gave it a shot and never looked back. “There wasn’t really anything that inspired me to start boxing,” she said. “I just started it one day and haven’t stopped since.” 

Harley, a 17-year-old student at Seneca High School, is a busy athlete who participates in wrestling, volleyball, and boxes year-round at Heartland Boxing Gym in Galena. “My name is Harley Lankford, I’m 17. I go to Seneca High School. I participate in two sports there, volleyball and wrestling. Then I also box at Heartland Boxing Gym in Galena.” 

The journey into the boxing world started in an unexpected way. “My mom, Jennifer Lankford, actually worked with my coach Dallas Cook’s wife, Sherry Cook,” Harley explained. “She just asked my mom if she thinks I would be interested in it, so I just tried it out.” 

Boxing is more than just a sport to Harley—it’s a constant presence. “Season never ends,” she said. “It’s a year-round sport.” 

One of her favorite memories highlights both the intensity and fun of the experience. “Last year I had a fight down in Tulsa, I won. Then I got to eat some sushi after,” she laughed. 

Outside of sports, Harley keeps things creative. “Hobbies that I enjoy out of my sports are painting, crocheting, and watching the Harry Potter series over and over again.” 

Looking ahead, Harley’s path is focused but flexible. “I see myself welding for a company—not sure what for, but that’s what I’m shooting for,” she said. “I’m not sure if I see myself boxing in five years. With my career choice I think I’ll be pretty busy.” 

One of her favorite things about being involved in the sport is the sense of community. “The boxing community is great around here in the 4-state area. Each gym knows each other pretty well,” she said. “That impacts my performance because since everyone gets along, it’s easier to meet up and spar.” 

Her message to others? “Try new things, don’t be nervous. Because you never know if you’ll like it or not.”