The University of Connecticut softball team has welcomed a special new member, 8-year-old Avery Armstrong, through Team IMPACT. Avery, who has Down Syndrome and a heart condition, was officially introduced at a signing day press conference on October 23rd. Through Team IMPACT, children facing serious illness and disability are matched with college athletic teams to foster socialization, empowerment, and resilience.
Avery will participate in various activities with the team, including games, practices, and other team events. The Huskies have been working with Team IMPACT for the past 10 years, matching 26 children across various athletic teams at the university. Head coach Laura Valentino expressed her excitement for Avery and her family joining the UConn Softball program, stating that they have already had a positive impact on the team.
Team IMPACT, founded in 2011, has matched over 3,000 children with 700+ colleges and universities across the country, impacting more than 75,000 student-athletes. The program focuses on building confidence and independence for both the children and the student-athletes involved.
Emma Simches, Regional Director of Programs, Northeast at Team IMPACT, expressed the organization’s excitement for Avery joining the Huskies and the opportunity to create lifelong bonds and life-changing outcomes through their partnership with UConn. This new addition to the team highlights the power of sports to bring people together and make a difference in the lives of children facing adversity.
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Photo credit uconnhuskies.com