WALTHAM, Mass. – Brandeis University women's basketball assistant coach Jill Latanowich announced a new team member last night, signing 7-year-old Taylor Peterson through Team IMPACT.
 
Taylor, who was diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy Type 2, was officially introduced at a signing day press conference on Thursday, September 28^th, in Red Auerbach Arena. She will participate in many activities with the women's basketball team including games, practices, and other team events.
 
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 Taylor officially join the Judges," said Emma Simches, Regional Director of Programs, Northeast at Team IMPACT. "We are proud to work alongside Brandeis University, their athletic department, and coaching staff to create lifelong bonds and life-changing outcomes between student-athletes and their Team IMPACT teammates."
 
Brandeis University has worked with Team IMPACT for the past 10 years, matching 9 children across its men's and women's basketball, men's and women's soccer, co-ed swimming, women's volleyball, baseball, and softball teams. 
 
"We are thrilled to have Taylor, and her family, part of our team. We are lucky to have such an amazing young lady add so much value to our team! We are looking forward to Taylor joining practices, games, and team events!" said Latanowich.
 
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.
 
 
Media Contacts
For Brandeis: Adam Levin, aslevin@brandeis.edu,
For Team IMPACT: Katie DePaolo, kdepaolo@teamimpact.org