TEAM IMPACT: #MUBB Introduces Newest Member Of Program

TEAM IMPACT, a national nonprofit organization that connects children facing serious illness and disability with college sports teams, is proud to announce the milestone of matching its 4,000th child. Since its founding in 2011, Team IMPACT has matched children at more than 750 colleges and universities across all 50 states and involving nearly 100,000 student-athletes.

As Team IMPACT celebrates this landmark match, it underscores the growing national reach of its clinically proven model to transform the lives of children through hope, connection and the power of team.

To mark this momentous milestone, Team IMPACT is highlighting four recently matched children to the program as honorary 4,000^th matches to showcase how it harnesses the power of sports to inspire and create lasting bonds for children who need it most.

"This milestone is more than a number, it represents 4,000 children who have found a team to stand by them, cheer for them, and walk with them through life's toughest challenges," said Krissie Kelleher, CEO of Team IMPACT. "Reaching 4,000 matches reflects the growing power of our mission and the incredible dedication of student-athletes across the country to be both teammates and lifelines for these kids and families. We are thrilled to reach this milestone, but even more excited for what's ahead as we further our commitment to providing every child in need with a team."

The four children being recognized as honorary 4,000^th matches embody the heart of the Team IMPACT mission:

Mack, 11, of Needham, MA, who lives with cerebral palsy, was recently drafted by the Northeastern University Men's Hockey team. Mack is the third child matched with the program, continuing a proud legacy of inclusion on the ice.
Emily, 10, from Malvern, PA, was paired with the Villanova University Field Hockey team. Living with cerebral palsy, Emily is now a Wildcat like her parents, both proud Villanova alumni, making this match especially meaningful.
BJ, 10, of Milwaukee, WI, is bravely living with sickle cell disease and kicked off his first season with the Marquette University Men's Basketball team this September and building awareness for Sickle Cell Awareness Month.
Remi, 6, from San Diego, CA, who has cerebral palsy and is nonverbal, has joined the UC San Diego Women's Water Polo team. Her favorite moments are cheering on her teammates at practices and games, where she's embraced as one of their own.

Team IMPACT recently announced an official alliance with the NCAA, marking a major step forward in their shared mission to transform the lives of children through the power of college athletics.

"NCAA student-athletes and coaches have always played a meaningful role in their communities, and our collaboration with Team IMPACT helps deepen that connection," said NCAA President Charlie Baker. "Together, we're working toward a future where every college in America has the opportunity to match with a child in need, because every child deserves a team."

Founded in 2011, Team IMPACT strives to improve the quality of life for children battling serious and chronic illnesses by pairing them with collegiate athletic teams. Through these matches, children become "team members," taking part in practices, games, and other team activities, which provide emotional support and a sense of inclusion. For the student-athletes, these bonds create valuable leadership opportunities and the chance to make a meaningful difference in the lives of young people. To date, Team IMPACT has reached over 4,000 children across the country, creating meaningful connections that inspire resilience and hope.

As Team IMPACT sets its sights on the next 1,000 matches, the organization is calling on new partners, college programs, donors, and volunteers to join the movement. Because every child deserves a team. For more information on Team IMPACT or to find out how you can support the cause, please visit www.teamimpact.org.

About Team IMPACT
Team IMPACT's unique multiyear program signs children facing serious illness and disability onto college athletic teams across the country. Based on a clinical model, Team IMPACT guides a symbiotic relationship between teams and children focused on socialization, empowerment, and resilience, ensuring everyone involved has the personalized game plan they need to win – effectively building confidence and independence. Founded in 2011, Team IMPACT has matched more than 4,000 children with 800+ colleges and universities in 50 states, impacting more than 100,000 student-athletes. If you know a child or team who may be interested, please visit www.teamimpact.org.

TEAM IMPACT: #MUBB Introduces Newest Member Of Program

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