DOBBS FERRY, N.Y. – Mercy University Women's Soccer Head Coach Jack Nicholson announced a new addition to the Mavericks, signing Olivia to the roster through a partnership with Team IMPACT.
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.
Olivia was diagnosed with Cri Du Chat and Microcephaly and is five years old. Olivia's favorite color is pink, her dream job is to be a doctor, her favorite food is guacamole, and she is obsessed with gloves.
The East Coast Conference entered into a partnership with Team IMPACT in the fall of 2013.
"Olivia embodies everything our team stands for, and we are over the moon to have her join our team. I think we will create lifelong memories through this partnership, and we are excited to have her with us. Team Impact is such an amazing organization, and we are thrilled to be able to join their Huddle, with Olivia joining our team. Roll Mavs!" said Head Coach Jack Nicholson.
'We are so excited to welcome Olivia as a member of our team and having her around us is important to all of us. We can't wait for all the memories we are going to make with her as she joins us as a teammate, and inspiration to all of us," stated senior captain Sarah Lill Hanks.
"We are very excited to welcome our newest member, Olivia, into our Maverick family! She will be joining our Women's Soccer team this fall, and the girls are ready to meet their newest teammate! Team IMPACT is something that truly upholds the statement "It's more than just a game." Having the opportunity to give back to the community is something that Mercy and the ECC hold at heart. We are excited to build and grow this relationship and hopefully work towards receiving more matches!" said Mercy University SAAC President Rita-Marie Masi.
