New Zealand Junior Men's Volleyball

Hi my name is Matthew Butterfield and recently I have been selected to play for the New Zealand U20 Junior Men’s volleyball team, which is travelling to Myanmar (Burma) on June the 29th to play in the South East Asian Games.

I am super excited and extremely proud to represent my country on the world stage, but need help raising funds to get to the trip as Volleyball New Zealand is not fully funded by Sports New Zealand and will cost me $5,000. This will cover travel, accommodation, food and various other requirements for the trip.

I currently work part time in between my study and volleyball commitments with all the money going towards the trip. Since attending Western Heights High School and watching my dad play volleyball tournaments around the country I have been motivated to be the best volleyball player I can be. I play every day at school and never miss training.

I am also a Type 1 diabetic, which means I have been insulin dependent since the age of 14. Having diabetes makes reaching a high level of sporting performance an extra challenge. I hope to inspire and share my experience with other young Type 1 diabetic children in New Zealand. I want to show them that they can still achieve their sporting goals no matter what, and that having Type 1 diabetes doesn't have to be a barrier to success!!

My goal once I finish school at the end of the year is to continue to study and inspire young people to do be their best they can in sports and whatever they put their mind too. I plan to attend University to study Physical Education and Music completing a Bachelor of Education, and my long term goal for Volleyball is to play for the New Zealand men’s team. Please help me achieve my goal by making a donations no matter how big or small I will be grateful for you helping me achieve my goal.

Thanks for taking time to read about me and my cause!!