But when Gannon joined the Penn State football family through Team IMPACT in 2024, something changed. He didn’t just gain a favorite team; he gained a brother. That brother is Penn State football student-athlete Cooper Cousins. 

From the moment they met, Cooper made sure Gannon knew he belonged. Whether they’re arriving together on the team bus or spending time with the Nittany Lions, Cooper has created a space where Gannon isn’t seen through the lens of hospital stays, treatments, or diagnoses. Instead, he’s welcomed as an essential part of the team. 

For Gannon’s family, that sense of belonging has been life changing. 

“Cooper Cousins, Penn State Nittany Lions’ football and Team IMPACT didn’t just give Gannon a team; they gave him a lifeline,” his family shared. “Cooper gave him brotherhood when the world felt isolated. Cooper gave him belonging when he was in the ICU and hospital rooms tried to make him feel different.” 

Their friendship extends far beyond football; it’s built on showing up, standing together, and making sure no one feels alone. 

“On that field, he isn’t the kid with fragile bones or on chemotherapy,” his family said. “He walks in proud off the team bus with Cooper and the entire team. He is a brother, he’s family. They fight for each other. They carry each other, and Cooper has never—not once—let Gannon stand alone.” 

That unwavering support has given Gannon something every child deserves, the confidence and security to simply be himself. 

Team IMPACT matches are about creating moments of joy, but they’re also about building relationships that endure life’s toughest battles. Cooper’s friendship reminds us that the greatest teammates aren’t measured by statistics or wins, but that they’re measured by the way they make others feel seen, valued, and loved. 

For Gannon, Cooper has become far more than a teammate; he’s a brother. 

And as Gannon’s family so perfectly put it, “This isn’t just football. This is love in its purest form.” 

The post Friendship Series: More Than a Friendship—a Lifeline – Gannon and Cooper, Penn State Football appeared first on Team IMPACT.

Living with a heart condition, Boston has faced challenges that many children his age never have to think about. But since being matched with the California State University, San Bernardino Baseball team through Team IMPACT in 2024, he’s found something every child deserves, a place where he feels welcomed, celebrated, and included.

One teammate, Conner, helped make that feeling possible every step of the way. He has made it his mission to ensure Boston knows he isn’t just on the roster, but he is a key member of the team.

Whether it’s before the first pitch, during the game, or after the final out, Conner goes out of his way to make Boston feel special. Through simple acts of kindness and genuine friendship, he’s created moments that remind Boston he belongs alongside his teammates.

“Our teammate should win because they always make Boston feel special on the baseball field,” Boston’s family shared. “They have made my son feel like a part of the team!”

Sometimes, the biggest impact doesn’t come from grand gestures.

It’s found in the high fives after practice. The conversations in the dugout. The smiles shared between the innings. The intentional moments when someone takes the time to make another person feel seen.

That’s exactly what Conner has done for Boston, by welcoming him as a teammate rather than a visitor, Conner has helped create an environment where Boston can simply enjoy being a kid, laughing with friends, celebrating the team’s successes, and making memories that will last long after the season ends.

At Team IMPACT, that’s what friendship is all about.

It’s choosing to include someone without hesitation. It’s making room for another teammate in every huddle, every celebration, and every shared experience. It’s showing up consistently so that someone else knows they matter.

For Boston, Cal State San Bernardino Baseball has become more than just a team to cheer for.

It’s become another family.

And thanks to friends like Conner, every trip to the ballpark is a reminder that the best teams aren’t just built on talent but that they’re built on kindness, inclusion, and the friendships that make everyone feel like they belong.

The post Friendship Series: Part of the Team — Boston and Conner, Cal State San Bernardino Baseball appeared first on Team IMPACT.

Arianna was matched with Kent State field hockey through Team IMPACT in 2025. Since then, she has become an integral part of the team.  Living with spina bifida, autism, and epilepsy, Arianna is nonverbal, but her joy speaks volumes whenever she is surrounded by the people who have become like family.

As soon as the team enters the field, her face lights up.

“Arianna is a nonverbal 12-year-old who is loved by her Kent State teammates,” her family shared. “She just lights up when she sees her teammates play; she may not know what is going on the field, but she knows her teammates are out there.”

For Ariana, it’s never been about understanding every play. It is about knowing she is a part of something bigger, a team that celebrates her, includes her, and makes sure she always has a place to belong.

That feeling starts with teammates like Lucy.

Lucy goes above and beyond to ensure Arianna feels welcomed every time she is around the team. Whether it is introducing her to new players, inviting her into team traditions, or simply making sure she is included in every gathering, Lucy has helped create an environment where Arianna is never on the outside looking in.

“Lucy makes sure that Arianna is welcome,” her family shared.

That sense of belonging is woven into every experience the pair shares.

Arianna proudly goes through spirit tunnels, celebrates alongside teammates, joins post-game press conferences, signs autographs, and smiles for team photos. She is present for team events, embraced in every celebration, and recognized as more than a guest, but a valued member of Kent State field hockey.

These are the moments where Team IMPACT’s mission shines through. Inclusion isn’t just inviting someone to attend; it is making sure they have a role, a voice, and a place where they are genuinely celebrated.

For Arianna, this looks like Lucy making room for her in photos, pulling up a chair at press conferences, taking the time to build connections and make introductions, and ensure that Arianna feels the same warmth from every teammate, not just Lucy.

While these acts may seem small, they have an extraordinary effect. They create confidence, they create joy, and most importantly, they create a place where Arianna knows she is loved.

Arianna and Lucy have shown that the strongest teams aren’t defined by what happens during competition, but they are defined by how they make every teammate feel.

And when everyone belongs, everyone wins.

The post Friendship Series: Each Other’s Light — Arianna and Lucy, Kent State Field Hockey appeared first on Team IMPACT.

Now Charlotte, age 12, is a graduate on the Michigan field hockey team, and she remains a huge part of the team. Whether she is attending team hangouts, meals, games or practices, she is treated like family. At the center of it all is her teammate, Zoe.

“Zoe has been an incredible teammate to our daughter, Charlotte,” Charlotte’s family shared. “She works unbelievably hard to make sure that Charlotte is included in team events and gatherings, as well as planning lots of extra events and hangouts for Charlotte to spend time with the team.”

Zoe always makes sure to invite Charlotte to everything, going as far as organizing team activities that revolve around Charlotte’s schedule, so she can attend everything. Zoe and Charlotte took many photos together on the team’s media day this past fall and saves a seat right beside her for post-game autographs.

For Charlotte’s family, her reach goes far beyond what meets the eye. Zoe and the team’s genuine care for Charlotte have been instrumental in her transition to middle school. Giving her confidence and a sense of safety if she needs a place to fall back on.

“Zoe is the big sister that our daughter needs and surrounds her with an entire team of friends and sisters who value Charlotte’s presence” Charlotte’s family shared.

Whether it be on the field, or at media day, Charlotte is always included in team events; she considers Zoe and the team as her “best friends,” and she is so grateful for their presence in her life. This sisterhood shows us what Team IMPACT can create, a sense of security, belonging, and genuine care for one another.

The post Friendship Series: An Entire Team of Friends and Sisters — Charlotte and Zoe, Michigan Field Hockey appeared first on Team IMPACT.

The post Michigan’s Zoë Bormet gets involved with Team IMPACT appeared first on Team IMPACT.

Ellie, who lives with Williams Syndrome, was matched with UGA cheerleading through Team IMPACT in 2025. Coming into a large team of over fifty members creates some uncertainty, but the UGA coach worked with Team IMPACT to make a smaller board of nine cheerleaders that would help integrate Ellie into the team fully. Among those nine were Hannah.

From the start, Hannah and Ellie shared an unbreakable bond. Hannah always begins every practice by greeting Ellie and making sure to partner up with her at games. She made sure that Ellie never felt out of place in the team environment. After only a few months of being matched together, Hannah texted Ellie’s family this message:

“I just wanted to let you know how thankful I am to be a part of sweet Ellie’s life! She just lights up the room, and I just am so thankful Team IMPACT allowed us all to meet! She is something so special and y’all have done an incredible job with her. She makes my days! Little girls just like her are exactly who make me so excited for my future career. She is the sweetest, HILARIOUS, loving little girl! Can’t wait to see y’all again!”

To Hannah, this may not be a big moment, but to Ellie’s family, it showed the difference that Team IMPACT can make in both an athlete and families’ life. The small moments are what makes the pair’s relationship stand out, with Hannah being in communication with Ellie’s family, and making it a point to be the first to include her; it shows how much she cares about Ellie.

“To watch the impact both ways, on Ellie from Hannah – giving her confidence and acceptance in a world that struggles to do that, and Hannah from Ellie – giving her an opportunity to learn about a child with special abilities and see the world through her eyes – is truly a gift,” Ellie’s family shared.

When Ellie decided to get involved with the “Big Hearts” talent show with ESP, Inc and showcase UGA cheers, Hannah was the first and only volunteer to get on stage with Ellie.

Hannah demonstrates that showing up excited is a game changer in the teammate bond, and that her support and excitement for Ellie’s wins, big or small, makes the world a difference. Hannah’s presence on stage made Ellie feel special. Performing cheers in front of a crowd with her UGA teammates was a huge moment for her confidence.

“What I love about Hannah is that she loves me, and I love her back, and she’s my bestie,” Ellie shared.

Ellie and Hannah show us that Team IMPACT is not about being included only on the big stage, but also backstage. Showing support in the little moments, and including teammates, is where the pair’s bond makes a difference.

The post Friendship Series: “She loves me and I love her back.” — Ellie and Hannah, Georgia Cheer appeared first on Team IMPACT.

Through Team IMPACT, Mateo, who lives with cerebral palsy, was matched with Carroll University men’s soccer in 2025. Joining this team provided him with a group of teammates who share his love for soccer, including a special bond with his teammate, Matthew.

While Mateo and Matthew face a language barrier, that has not stopped them from forming a meaningful connection.

https://youtube.com/shorts/Ftyi_-1fDtU   

“Matthew is being very attentive with Mateo even though they have the language barrier,” Mateo’s family shared. “They still communicate and share a lot of different forms of communication with each other.”

Their friendship reminds us that some of the strongest bonds are formed through action, not words. Matthew has found ways to make Mateo feel welcomed and included as a member of the team through experiences, patience, and genuine care.

Something they never need assistance to communicate about is their love for the game.

Whether they are spending time together on the field kicking around the ball, or cheering on the team together, soccer has become a common language between them. Soccer provides a way to connect, have fun, and create memories that go beyond any language differences.

Matthew’s kindness is reflected in the way he has created an environment where Mateo feels supported and celebrated. The team surprised Mateo with a birthday video on his most recent birthday. The thoughtful gesture showed just how much he means to the program and how invested the players are in making him feel like part of their family.

For Mateo, Carroll Men’s Soccer is more than a team. It’s a place where he can share his love of soccer, build lasting relationships, and be surrounded by people who care about him.

And for Matthew and Mateo, their friendship proves that kindness, laughter, and a shared passion can speak louder than words ever could.

The post Friendship Series: More Than a Game — Mateo and Matthew, Carroll Soccer appeared first on Team IMPACT.

Nadiya is fully blind due to a genetic disorder, but her teammate Taylor makes sure she is always informed. Since they met, Taylor has made it her mission to ensure Nadiya feels included, informed, and valued as a member of the team.

“Taylor has taken the time at every practice and meet to come over to Nadiya, always making sure she introduces herself first,” Nadiya’s mom, Michelle, shared. “This is key as Nadiya is fully blind and sometimes identifying people by only voice is a challenge.”  

Taylor’s consistent thoughtfulness has helped create a special bond between the pair. At every swim meet, Taylor makes sure Nadiya can follow the action in the pool by describing what is happening. This began as a simple act of inclusion, but it laid out the foundation for a meaningful friendship built on trust, understanding, and genuine care.

“Taylor always takes the time to say hi, and she always describes everything that is going on in every OSU meet because I can’t see it,” Nadiya said. “At OSU team meals, Taylor helps me get food. I like how she walks me through the line and describes all the food that is there, and she sits next to me too.”

For Nadiya, the little moments matter. Taylor’s care allows Nadiya to not only navigate events, but to fully participate in them.  

Their friendship extends far beyond the pool. When Nadiya’s family visited Niagara Falls over the summer, Taylor was home nearby in Buffalo. Despite being on her summer break, she made it a point to meet up with Nadiya for dinner. Taylor has even introduced Nadiya to her mom, adding another layer to their relationship. Gestures that may seem small for Taylor make a huge difference for Nadiya, building her confidence and sense of belonging.  

Taylor has supported Nadiya in both the good moments, and the disappointing ones, reminding her of her value after Nadiya participated in her school’s goalball team. Taylor displays the meaning of being a teammate, showing up every moment.  

The impact of Taylor’s friendship is shown through how she acts. She includes Nadiya without making her feel different and offers support without taking away Nadiya’s independence. Through the small and intentional acts, she ensures that Nadiya experiences every moment as a true member of OSU Artistic Swim.  

The connection between the pair is so strong that when asked who she would like to be placed next to in the team locker room, her answer was immediate: Taylor. Through Team IMPACT, Nadiya gained a team. In Taylor, she gained a friend who makes sure no moment goes unseen.  

The post Friendship Series: The Little Moments — Nadiya and Taylor, Ohio State Artistic Swim appeared first on Team IMPACT.

“He is the best person,” Savian said. “He plays games with me, is always nice, and we have a handshake.”  

While the handshake may seem small, it represents a friendship built on trust and consistency.

Savian is an eight-year-old who lives with microvillus inclusion disease. He was matched with Bethel College men’s basketball in 2025 through Team IMPACT. Since joining the team, he has gained more than teammates, with friendships that have made him feel welcome and supported.

The most notable friendship is Savian’s with his teammate, Dom. From the beginning, Dom tried to get to know Savian. They spend time together at team events, play games with one another, and have even gone bowling together. Dominik always goes the extra step to make sure that Savian feels included and seen. The pair’s friendship extends far beyond game days though.  

“No matter how the game goes for Dom, he always makes sure to talk to Savian,” his family shared. “He is very kind and attends everything we schedule outside of basketball. You can tell he really cares about Savian and what he is doing.”  

The consistency in Dom’s support is what makes the difference in their friendship. Win or lose, Dom always checks in with his teammate. The collection of these moments sends a strong message to Savian, showing him that he matters. Dom understands that being a good teammate extends beyond the court, that it is about showing up, and building relationships to strengthen the team.  

Whether it is spending time after practice, creating new additions to their handshake, or just checking in, Dom makes sure that every interaction with Savian counts. The connection has created a home away from home for Savian.  

These moments share a story of friendship that grows stronger every day. Team IMPACT is built on the belief that sports can create life-changing relationships, and the friendship found on Bethel Men’s Basketball between Savian and Dominik is just one example of that belief working in real time.  

For Savian, every handshake practiced is a reminder that he has found a genuine supporter, and someone who will always be in his corner.  

The post Friendship Series: “The Best Person” — Savian and Dom, Bethel Basketball  appeared first on Team IMPACT.

The biggest difference maker in Sophie’s team experience? Her teammate Saylor. From the beginning, Saylor made Sophie feel like she was more than just attending team events but was a valued member of the program from the very start. Through small acts of kindness, steady encouragement, and genuine friendship, Saylor helped Sophie find confidence in herself.  

“I nominate Saylor for Teammate of the Year because she always helps me in the lockers, she makes me feel happy, excited, and special,” Sophie shared.  

While a small gesture such as helping in the locker room may be overlooked by some, it means the world to Sophie and her family. It is one example of countless small moments where Saylor has made sure that Sophie has a place and is welcomed fully.  

“Saylor Poffenbarger embodies what it means to be a true teammate,” Sophie’s family shared. “Her impact on Sophie isn’t limited to one special moment; she consistently shows up with genuine kindness, attention, and encouragement that make Sophie feel included and valued as part of the team.” 

What stands out most about Saylor’s friendship is its consistency. Saylor makes a difference in the little, everyday moments. She has built a friendship rooted in genuine kindness and care, checking in with Sophie, offering her encouragement, helping navigate activities, and simply spending time together.  

“Saylor has made you feel so seen and valued, not just on big game days, but in everyday little moments,” Sophie’s mother said to her.  

It is the impact of these moments that have transformed the way Sophie views herself. Over the past three years, Sophie’s confidence has grown tremendously. With Saylor’s support, she can step out onto the court with her teammates, embrace new experiences, build meaningful relationships, and develop a belief in herself that continues to grow.  

Sophie’s journey with Team IMPACT reflects the power of inclusion, friendship, and confidence from knowing that you are valued. The sense of belonging is one of the organization’s greatest gifts, and Saylor has made that a reality for Sophie. 

Being a teammate is not about how many points are on the scoreboard at the end of the game, but how you make people feel, how you work together, and how you navigate all of the small challenges that turn into big moments. The friendship between Sophie and Saylor is a reminder that some of the most impactful friendships happen quietly. They build in locker rooms, during conversations, and in simple moments where one chooses to show up for the other.  

Saylor does not just make Sophie feel like a part of the team; she gives Sophie the confidence of knowing that she is right where she is meant to be.  

And that feeling will stay with her long after the buzzer sounds.  

The post Friendship Series: “Happy, Excited, and Special” — Sophie and Saylor, Maryland Basketball  appeared first on Team IMPACT.