Hi my name is Sam Merritt. I have been selected for the 23rd Summer Deaflympic Games, which will take place in Samsun, Turkey in July 2017. This is my first International selection and I feel honoured to represent Great Britain against the best Deaf athletes from other countries.
The pinnacle for any athlete in their sport is the Olympic Games. Deaf swimming is no different this is why I have set up this crowdfunding page. As some of you may know, Deaf Athletes do not receive funding from the government or governing bodies. This means I have to self-fundraise to be able to take part.
At the age of 16 a North East Disability talent coach recognised my potential to achieve further goals than just to settle as an average swimmer. This then pushed me to want to achieve more, from then on my swimming career has developed to making me one of the top Deaf swimmers in the UK. In my time as a national swimmer I have achieved numerous medals.
I currently attend sixth form where I am studying Sports Science with the view of going on to study Physiotherapy at university. This means I have to balance my studies with 20 hours of training.
I need to raise at least £2,500 to go to Turkey, however I have set the goal of £3000 to have an additional £500 to help pay for equipment, nutrition, training camps, travelling, accommodation as these are things necessary on my journey to the Deaflympics. Please help me to reach my full potential and fulfill my dream, I would be grateful for any donations as they will help me reach my target.
Cheers,
Sam