SPRINGFIELD, Massachusetts – American International College (AIC) head football coach, Daniel Chipka announced a new team member, signing 9-year-old Cadence "Cash" through Team IMPACT.

Cash, who was diagnosed with a Lung Disease, was officially introduced at a signing day press conference on Friday, May 30th, at his Elementary School in Windsor CT. He will participate in many activities with the football program including games, practices, and other 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 Cash officially join the Yellow Jackets," said Emma Simches, Regional Director of Programs, Northeast at Team IMPACT. "We are proud to work alongside American International College, their athletic department, and coaching staff to create lifelong bonds and life-changing outcomes between student-athletes and their Team IMPACT teammates."

"We couldn't be more excited to officially add Cash to our football family," said Coach Chipka. "One of our cultural pillars is the AIC Brotherhood, and the addition of Cash certainly strengthens that. It's been a pleasure to have him and his family on campus throughout last season. We're all looking forward to this upcoming season with Cash as part of our family, helping us 'Build Better' both on and off the field."

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.