Teenage martial artist to represent England
Darcy and her coach are thrilled about her England team selection
- Published
A 15-year-old martial artist from Doncaster will represent England at an international competition later this year.
Darcy Criddle has been training for more than ten years and is now part of the national squad at the forthcoming World Karate and Kickboxing Championships in Albufeira, Portugal.
The event in October features more than 2,000 competitors over the course of a week.
The teenager's family said whatever happens at the event they are immensely proud of her being selected for her country.
Darcy has been training at Andy Crittenden's Martial Arts Centre since she was five years-old, and is now a 2nd Degree Blackbelt in Multi Skilled Martial Arts and is also training towards her kickboxing blackbelt.
She is also a member of the Instructor Team at ACMAC and this year she won the Junior Instructor Team Member Award.
Darcy's mum Linda Criddle also trains at the same centre.
"Over the last couple of year's Darcy has said she wants to go the worlds competition, she's seen other team mates compete there," she said.
"I said it's a lot of hard work, you've got to put the extra time in, and she's done that.
"She's gone through some regional competitions and some national ones, and has qualified to represent England, it's just incredible."
'Inspiration to all'
Meanwhile, staff and students at Darcy's school, Sir Thomas Wharton Academy in Doncaster, are offering her support.
Principal Matt McDonald said they were all "incredibly proud" of her "remarkable achievement".
"Representing one's country on such a grand stage is a testament to her dedication, hard work, and talent.
"She is an inspiration to all of us at the Academy.”
Darcy is now trying to raise sponsorship to help with the costs of travel, accommodation, and training expenses for the competition, so she can focus on her performance.
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