WESTON, Mass. - Regis College head women's volleyball coach Josh Anderson announced a new team member, signing 14-year-old Sammy Onofrey through Team IMPACT.
Sammy, diagnosed with a craniopharyngioma brain tumor, was officially introduced at a signing day press conference Wednesday, Aug. 21, before the team's preseason photo session. She will participate in many activities with the team, including games, practices, and other team events.
"We are excited to welcome Sammy into the program," Coach Anderson said. "The players were ready and eager for her arrival as we continue our preparation for the start of the season. Welcome to the Pride, Sammy!"
Team IMPACT, a national non-profit organization, has developed a unique multiyear program that matches children facing serious illness and disability with 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.
"Team IMPACT is excited to see Sammy join the Pride," said Emma Simches, Regional Director of Programs, Northeast at Team IMPACT. "We are proud to work alongside Regis, their athletic department, and coaching staff to create lifelong bonds and life-changing outcomes between student-athletes and their Team IMPACT teammates."
Regis College has worked with Team IMPACT for the past eight years, matching children across several Pride programs. The women's volleyball team becomes the sixth Pride squad to welcome a Team IMPACT player, joining the men's basketball, women's basketball, men's lacrosse, men's soccer, and women's soccer teams at Regis.
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 over 3,000 children with 700+ colleges and universities in all 50 states, impacting more than 75,000 student-athletes. If you know a child or team who may be interested, please visit www.teamimpact.org.