Hi, my name is Belen Medina, and I’m a senior in high school. I started wrestling as a freshman, not knowing where it would take me—but over the past four years, this sport has become my passion, my purpose, and my path forward.

In my first year, I placed third in the PSAL City Championship (freestyle), which qualified me for states. I placed second there and earned a spot at Fargo—one of the biggest national wrestling tournaments in the country. But I had to let it go. I didn’t have the financial support I needed, and that opportunity slipped away.

I didn’t give up. Sophomore year, I placed in every freestyle tournament and won first in the City Championship. Junior year, I won the PSAL city championship in folkstyle. I was set to compete in Mayor’s cup, but it was cancelled. Still I kept pushing. Freestyle season comes and I became captain of my school’s team, and again took first in freestyle.

This year—my senior year—I’ve worked harder than ever. I wrestled in the Columbus Day Dual Tournament thanks to a coach from Beat the Streets (BTS) who saw something in me. I was honored with the Outstanding Wrestler award. I even wrestled with the boys’ team to challenge myself further. Later on I wrestled in Eastern States Classic. I lost my first match, but I didn’t let that stop me—I battled back and took third place.

Then came my final freestyle season. I was captain again. I placed in every PSAL freestyle tournament. I went to compete in the Jeff Blatnick New York State USA Wrestling Championships. I tried Greco-Roman wrestling for the first time and placed second. The next day, I placed second again in freestyle—and that qualified me for Fargo.

This time, I don’t want to let the opportunity pass me by.

I’m raising funds to help cover travel, lodging, gear, and tournament fees. Wrestling has given me confidence, leadership, and discipline. Fargo is the next step, and with your support, I can get there.

Now that I got this second chance, I don’t want to let it go again.