Knockout in Franklin: Meghan Kilroe, a Rising Star in the Ring
Meghan Kilroe is an elite athlete and a testament to discipline and talent in her community.
Meghan Kilroe, a 29-year-old boxer from Franklin, is making waves in the sport with her dedication and rapid rise. A longtime resident, she graduated from Franklin High School after her parents moved from Hyde Park in search of a better school system. Meghan has three siblings—Kate (27), James (25), and Matthew (31)—and her parents, Lisa and John Kilroe.
Despite an impressive academic and professional background—having studied biochemistry at Westfield State University, nursing at NEIT, and completing a nursing graduate program at Salve Regina—Meghan has found another arena to excel in: the boxing ring. Competing as an elite female boxer in the 154-pound weight class, she is making her mark on the sport. Meghan’s journey into boxing began in 2020 as part of a post-college fitness routine.
What started as a workout quickly turned into a passion for competition. Inspired by local boxers Melanie Costa and Arika Skoog and international stars like Katie Taylor and Alycia Baumgardner, she set her sights on national competitions. “I told myself, ‘I’m going to be there one day,’” she recalled. Her determination soon paid off. In 2024, Meghan won a silver medal at one national championship and reached the quarterfinals in another. She currently ranks eighth in the country for her weight class in USA Boxing’s elite female division. Under the guidance of coaches Josh LeMar and Dave Keefe at Bishop’s Boxing Team in Brockton, Massachusetts, Meghan has embraced the discipline required to excel in the sport. Boxing has taught her many life lessons. “When you get in the ring, it’s only you in there,” Meghan explained. “You have to put in every ounce of work yourself. No one makes you show up to the gym or put in the extra workout.”
This self-discipline has not only enhanced her performance in the ring but has also boosted her confidence in other aspects of life. Balancing her nursing career with an intense training schedule, Meghan exemplifies the grit and determination of a true athlete. Looking ahead, she aims to become a national champion. With several competitions on the horizon this year, she remains focused on reaching the top. “I want to be the best, and I know I’m capable of it,” she said. Meghan encourages young athletes to try boxing, even if they don’t plan to compete. “Boxing builds character,” she said. “I wish I had known about it when I was a kid.” As Meghan Kilroe continues to climb the ranks in women’s boxing, she serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes in Franklin and beyond, proving that with discipline and dedication, anyone can punch above their weight in any arena