Image source, Family photo
- author, Mick Ranney
- role, BBC News
A 15-year-old fighter from Doncaster will represent England at an international tournament later this year.
Darcy Criddle has been training for over 10 years and is currently part of the national team for the World Karate and Kickboxing Championships in Albufeira, Portugal.
The event, held in October, will see over 2,000 competitors take part over the course of a week.
The girl's family said that whatever happens at the event, they are extremely proud that she has been selected to represent her country.
Darcy has been training with Andy Crittenden's Martial Arts Centre since the age of 5 and currently holds a 2nd degree black belt in Multi Skills Martial Arts and is currently training towards her black belt in Kickboxing.
She is also a member of ACMAC's instructor team and was the recipient of the Junior Instructor Team Member award this year.
Darcy's mother, Linda Criddle, also trains at the same centre.
“For the last few years, Darcy has said she wanted to go to the world championships and has seen other teammates competing there,” she said.
“I told her it was hard work and she’d have to put in extra hours, but she got it done.
“She's won several regional and national competitions and has been selected to represent England, which is really fantastic.”
“Inspiration for everyone”
Meanwhile, staff and pupils at Ms Darcy's school, Sir Thomas Wharton Academy in Doncaster, have offered their support to her.
Principal Matt McDonald said all the pupils were “extremely proud” of her “fantastic achievement”.
“To represent her country on such a great 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 looking to find sponsors to cover the costs of travel, accommodation and training for competitions so she can focus on performing.
