QUINCY, Mass. – The George Mason University men's basketball team welcomed their newest and youngest teammate, 10-year-old Daniel, on November 10, through Team IMPACT. The Draft Day was held at EagleBank Arena, home to George Mason basketball. Daniel was joined by his family as well as the basketball team, coaching staff, and members from the George Mason community.
During the men's basketball Patriot Platoon Meet and Greet, head coach Dave Paulsen, introduced Daniel as the team's newest signee. In front of his new teammates, Daniel signed his National Letter of Intent which stated that he was invited to any home game and practice that he could attend pending completion of his homework. He was also presented with his team jersey to wear to games, which adorned his favorite number, No. 18. In addition to his own jersey, Daniel received a George Mason Hat and backpack as part of his team gear.
“It is a chance for our guys to give back a little to someone who has some really serious medical issues,” said Paulsen. “Anytime our guys get involved with people who have struggled, they are actually the ones who benefit. They learn how fortunate they are, they get a chance to form a bond with somebody and the connections go both ways.”
Before Daniel was born, doctors had detected a serious kidney disorder. At seven months old, he had his kidney removed and then received a transplant shortly after. Due to unfortunate circumstances, the transplant was rejected and his liver started to fail. But Daniel was able to receive a liver transplant in 2010, and then in 2012, his mother donated her kidney to him. Through his determination, he has continued to overcome some other medical challenges with a smile on his face and Daniel is an inspiration to many.
“It is a really exciting day for everyone at the George Mason Basketball program,” said Paulsen.”
The newest Patriot should really go by “Mr. Personality,” because he has a great deal of positive spirit. When asked to describe his favorite food, his response was, “pepperoni pizza - light on the sauce and heavy on the pepperoni.” He also loves his music and you can find him listening to Pitbull, Imagine Dragons – and he even does Frank Sinatra impression. Although Daniel is not allowed to play sports, he is very active. He loves to play in the pool, play outside, go to amusement parks and dance, which helps to strengthen his core. He also has a special bond with his 11-year-old sister, Alex, who Daniel cites as his best friend.
Most importantly, Daniel is excited to officially join the team. He can't wait to watch the games and watch his team win! Not only does he think it's fun to be a Patriot, he also can't pick just one favorite player, as they are all awesome to him. With all he battles through, Daniel truly embodies what it means to have determination and is sure to be an inspiration to his teammates and coaches.
ABOUT TEAM IMPACT:
Team IMPACT is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit whose mission is to improve the quality of life for children facing life-threatening and chronic illnesses through the power of team. Team IMPACT children are drafted on to college athletic teams, local to where they live and, in effect, become official members of the team from Draft Day through to Graduation. At Team IMPACT, they envision a future where the lives of children facing the hardships associated with adverse issues and events will have access to collegiate team-based support in order to significantly enhance their quality of life in a number of ways, including; socially, psychologically, physically and academically. Team IMPACT also strives to provide collegiate teams with increased levels of awareness, sympathy and support for the medical and disease communities. Established in 2011, Team IMPACT has already matched over 800 children with collegiate teams, at over 300 institutions in 43 states, improving the quality of life of hundreds of courageous children and touching the lives of over 25,000 student athletes. For more information, please visit: www.goteamimpact.org.
