Hi, my name is Delaney Perry. I’ve been playing water polo for five years and have competed in the Junior Olympics three times. As a plus-size athlete, it’s been challenging to find proper swimwear, but I’ve never let that stop me from pursuing my passion.

At a recent Junior Olympics tournament, I experienced a wardrobe issue with my swimsuit. Fortunately, the situation was resolved, but something incredible came out of it. Melissa Seidemann — a three-time Olympic gold medalist in water polo — heard about what had happened. On the last day of the tournament, she came to watch me play two games.

After the games, Melissa approached me and said she was impressed with my performance. She shared her own journey as a plus-size player rising to the top of the sport, and she even gifted me the swimsuit she wore when she won her first gold medal at the 2012 Olympics. We talked for over an hour about the challenges we face and how to overcome them. Before we parted, she recommended I attend the Tony Azevedo 6-8 Water Polo Academy.

Following her advice, my family and I reached out to the Academy and spoke with Tony Azevedo himself. I’ve been accepted to attend the full-semester program starting in January, where I’ll live on campus and train with other elite athletes. Many participants go on to play at major colleges — and some are invited to try out for the U.S. Olympic Team.

This opportunity could truly change my life. I’m reaching out to ask for your support in helping me attend the 6-8 Academy and take one step closer to achieving my dream of representing the United States in water polo.

Any donation — big or small — would mean the world to me and help me pursue this once-in-a-lifetime chance.

Thank you so much for your time and support!

With gratitude,

Delaney Perry