Avant Vance and Clifford James are two Merrillville High School Student boxers from Indiana with the chance to represent their community at the 2026 USA Boxing National Championships in Lafayette, Louisiana, from December 5–13.

For Avant and Clifford, boxing is about much more than winning fights. It has taught them discipline, sacrifice, confidence, responsibility, and how to keep going when things get difficult. They have both put in the work to earn this opportunity, and now the biggest challenge is getting them there.

Avant is 16 years old, competes at 145 pounds, and has already stepped into the ring 22 times. Clifford is 14 years old, competes at 114 pounds, and has already built experience through 22 boxing bouts. For two young athletes at their age, that kind of dedication says a lot about their commitment and the effort they continue to give to the sport.

Support from this fundraiser will help cover the real costs of making the trip, including room and board, transportation, food, gas, and other travel-related items. Every donation will help give Avant and Clifford the chance to focus on what they have worked so hard for: competing on the national stage.

Any contribution, big or small, would mean a lot. If you believe in young athletes and want to help Avant Vance and Clifford James represent Indiana at USA Boxing Nationals, please consider donating or sharing this fundraiser.