Waltham, Mass. – Bentley University swimming and diving head coach Mary Kay Samko announced a new team member, signing 16-year-old Cory Graziosi through Team IMPACT.
 
WBZ/CBS Boston was there cover the signing

Cory has Down Syndrome and was officially introduced at a signing day press conference on Tuesday on campus. He will participate in many activities with the 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.
 
"Bentley swimming and diving is beyond excited to welcome Cory to our team; his enthusiasm and high spirit reflects onto our entire team's attitude. Going forward, we know that he will continually be that positive ray of sunshine on the pool deck.," said Samko. 
 
"Team IMPACT is excited to see Cory join the Falcons," said Emma Simches, Regional Director of Programs, Northeast at Team IMPACT. "We are proud to work with Bentley University, their athletic department, and coaching staff to create lifelong bonds and life-changing outcomes between student-athletes and their Team IMPACT teammates."
 
Bentley University athletics has worked with Team IMPACT for the past 13 years, matching nine children with different teams over the course of the partnership.
 
 
 
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.