My name is Matej. I'm 16 years old and come from Kosice, Slovakia, a small country in the heart of Europe.

Since I was six, ice hockey has been more than just a sport to me. It's been my passion and a huge part of who I am. Today, I play defense for HC Kosice’s U18 team and I’m proud to represent Slovakia on the national U16 team.

Alongside my sports career, I also recognize the importance of a quality education, which is an essential part of a successful future — whether as an athlete or as a person. That’s why I decided to combine my studies with hockey and worked hard to gain admission to College Bourget in Canada, where both of these paths can be developed simultaneously at high levels.

After visiting the school and going through the interview process, I was accepted into the 11th grade and offered a partial scholarship. I'm truly grateful for that. But even with this support, studying abroad poses a big financial challenge for my family. My parents are already doing their best to support me and also my sister, who is studying abroad at Charles University in Prague.

That's why I'm reaching out. The $10,000 I'm hoping to raise would make it possible for me to start at College Bourget, allowing to combine top-level hockey with great education. Every contribution, big or small, brings this dream within reach.

I am convinced that investing in education and sports development of young people makes a difference, and I am ready to turn this trust into maximum effort and results.

Thank you for reading my story and for being part of this journey.

Sincerely,

Matej