Declan Fences in the Nationals!

            Hello, my name is Declan. I am 14 years old, and I am a saber fencer. The first time I remember I wanted to do fencing was when I was three years old and I would sword fight with my dad almost every day. I started taking fencing lessons when I was ten and I have stuck with it until this day. The first tournament I ever did was a Regional Youth Tournament and I won fifth place even though I was only eleven at the time. Since then I have fenced in many local tournaments and won over 21 medals. I think I am very talented at the sport, and that I could achieve greatness.      

            Despite my age, this year I won silver at the Midwestern Regionals for U17 saber. I believe that I am done with local competitions. I want to take my fencing to the next level and perform at the Nationals. The problem with this is that my family does not have much money so I cannot afford the plane tickets, and proper equipment. This is why I need your help, to assist me in going to the Nationals, and fulfilling my dreams as a master swordsman.                                                                                                                                                        

          Thank you for your time!