NIAGARA UNIV., N.Y. – The Niagara University men’s hockey team made a significant roster addition, drafting Team IMPACT teammate Jack Marchetta of Williamsville, New York.
“Jack is an important part of our group and we are excited for him to be a part of our journey this season,” said head coach Jason Lammers. “His compete and attitude are contagious which permeates our team.”
Jack is a 7-year-old who was diagnosed with an immune dysfunction at birth.
“I’ve never done anything like this before that’s so special,” Jack said when asked what it means to join the team. “It’s great that my family can come see it and that the whole team can. Being part of this team is very special to me.”
Jack’s day included talking with the team in their locker room, being shown around the facilities at Dwyer Arena, taking part in a press conference, signing a letter of intent, receiving a custom jersey, photo opportunities, and skating on the ice with the team.
The final question of the press conference came from one of the players. Asked what the biggest asset he intends to bring to the team, Jack’s reply earned a big round of applause.
“My biggest thing is that I will be really happy to see you guys play and have a great friendship with you.”
“His selfless leadership is a constant example of his commitment to daily growth,” Lammers added. “We are excited he has chosen NU and we are looking forward to the support of his youthful smile and exuberance.”
Team IMPACT is a national nonprofit headquartered in Boston, MA that connects children facing serious or chronic illnesses with college athletic teams, forming lifelong bonds and life-changing outcomes. Since 2011, Team IMPACT has matched more than 1,800 children with more than 600 colleges and universities in 48 states, reaching over 55,000 participating student athletes. The child joins the athletic team and the student athletes join the child’s support team. Throughout the journey, the child gains strength, camaraderie and support while the student athletes experience lessons of courage, resiliency and perspective they can’t learn in a classroom.
