My name is Mike (Mikie) Linch, and I am a junior at Poway High School, and soon to be 12th year student at St. Paul's Collegiate in Hamilton, New Zealand. I wish to travel abroad to New Zealand for two main reasons. First to experience a new culture and experience how other people in the world live and second to become a more complete rugby player which I hope will lead to me being accepted to play on the U-19 U.S. national team.
I have been playing rugby for the past 5 years and have accumulated many awards while playing. For the past two years I have been the North County Barbarian's vice captain or captain. Last year I was named the team's most valuable forward, and the year before that I was given the most improved award. Last season I was also chosen to represent southern California in a national tournament in Colorado. Rugby has basically been my life for the past couple of years. It has become the Linch family sport, with both my older brothers having played before me.
I also play offensive and defensive line for Poway High's Varsity Football team. Football had taught me discipline and perseverance which I believe will help me succeed in New Zealand. Although I do play football and it takes up most of my time, my heart belongs to rugby. I couldn't imagine anything I would rather do then wake up on a Saturday morning in March, put on my boots and play in a rugby game.
Even though I love football and rugby I am a Student-athlete, and of course student comes first. I currently have a 3.5 GPA. I was also chosen to be on The Union Tribune's All Academic Team. This award is given to students who not only excel on the field but in the classroom. My grades are not the only thing I am proud of when it comes to my schooling. Throughout my 3 years in high school I have yet to receive a detention or any negative mark on my character. My schooling is very important to me and I take it very seriously.
Now to the reason I am writing this. I need your help!!!! I currently need to raise $5000 to pay for my schooling in New Zealand. This money will pay for room and board, uniform, books and travel. This trip I believe will be potentially life changing for me. Not only will it give me the opportunity to experience a different culture but will prepare me for college and could propel me to the level I need to be at to make the Youth Eagles, which has been a dream of mine for many years. Please if you could give a donation of $100 it would be greatly appreciated, but a donation of any amount is also very much appreciated.
Thank you very much,
Mikie Linch
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