Ballin’ for Team USA – Send Emelia to the Deaflympics!

Hola amigos!

I’m Emelia Beldon, and I’m beyond honored (and excited!) to share that I’ve been selected to represent Team USA in basketball at the Deaflympics!

This will be my second Deaflympics but fifth international event, and each time feels just as surreal as the first.

I’ve had the privilege of playing 4 years at Gallaudet University, where I hold the career assist record with 605, and was honored as Gallaudet Student-Athlete of the Year twice. Along the way, I’ve proudly represented the U.S. in international competitions—bringing home gold at the 2018 U21 World Championships, 2021 Deaflympics, 2023 World Championships, and most recently, the 2024 3x3 World Cup.

Now, I get to wear USA across my chest again—and I need your help to make it happen.

The not-so-glamorous part? These incredible opportunities come with a cost—and Deaf athletes are responsible for covering all of their own expenses. That includes travel, housing, training camps, uniforms, and gear. Unlike many Olympic-level athletes, we don’t receive the same funding or sponsorship support, which is why I’m reaching out.

I need to raise $7,500 to help cover everything that makes this dream possible.

I’ve asked for support before, and I’m humbled every time by how generous and encouraging you all are. I truly hate asking again, but the truth is: I can’t do this without help.

If you’re able to donate—even just a little—it would mean the world to me. And if you can’t, sharing this with others or just cheering me on is just as meaningful.

Mil gracias for being in my corner. Let’s go for gold this November! ❤️

With love and buckets,

Emelia