SAFFORD — In a few days, a Safford youth could become a national champion, but he needs the public’s help to achieve his dream.
Micah Chaplin, 17, has been invited to take part in the U.S. Marine Corps Junior Nationals in Fargo, N.D. and the family is fund-raising to help cover travel costs.
Chaplin wrestles freestyle Greco Roman and said he’s ready for the challenge.
“Of course, there’s an amount of pressure, but I’m (excited) to go,” he said. “I just want to go, do my best, be myself and do what I do.”
During the school year, Chaplin wrestles for Safford High School, which finished third as a team in the Division III championships last year. He wrestled at 190 pounds and defeated his first two opponents by pin before losing a major decision in the semifinal round. He finished the 2024 high school championships in fifth place.
“For now, I’m just trying to become an All-American,” Chaplin said. “Next year, for my senior year and last year of high school, I want to go undefeated and be a state champion.”
To help defray the costs — which are the responsibility of the wrestler — Chaplin’s family is accepting donations via CashApp at $CashBruhhl123 or Venmo @Kema-Chaplin-1. Or call 602-884-3568.
