Humboldt State University men’s soccer team has announced the signing of Team IMPACT standout, Leo Dixon.  Leo, the son of Todd and Karen Dixon, comes to Humboldt State through a partnership with Team IMPACT, whose mission is to improve the quality of life for children facing serious illnesses and disabilities through the power of team.

 “We’ve been waiting for some time, but we finally got to have our first meeting with our new Team Impact teammate Leo Dixon,” said Humboldt State head men’s soccer coach Fred Jungemann.  “It was a great day and we really enjoyed meeting Leo and his parents. We are looking forward to connecting with them again after the new year and continuing the process.”

 “This experience with Team IMPACT is truly amazing,” said freshman Marcus Abdel Malek. “Getting to meet Leo was so much fun and I cannot wait to make even more memories that will be with him for the rest of his life.”

 Leo started practicing with the Lumberjacks at this past Friday’s practice at College Creek Field.  He will be participating in team activities over the upcoming months and will play an integral role on the team.

 “I am so grateful that we are able to experience this time with Leo and Team IMPACT,” added junior Sean Tucker.  “This experience was really impactful for me plus Leo is such a great kid with amazing parents.  We as a team cannot wait to make more memories with them in the future!”

 About Team IMPACT

Team IMPACT is the only U.S. nonprofit that tackles the emotional trauma and social isolation experienced by children facing serious illnesses and disabilities by matching them with a college athletic team. Our two-year therapeutic program complements a child's medical treatments, allowing the child to develop relationships and skills that help them complete the full circle of healing.
 
Through participation in Team IMPACT's clinically informed program, children experience a true sense of belonging, resulting in increased empowerment, normalization, health promotion, and resilience. Families feel connected and supported as their child achieves individualized goals, while experiencing the joy of team camaraderie and inclusion; and student-athletes gain perspective and inspiration, as well as lessons in adversity and resilience.
 
Founded in 2011, Team IMPACT has matched more than 2,300 children with 700+ colleges and universities in 49 states, impacting more than 65,000 student-athletes. Team IMPACT has more than 1,200 teams across the country waiting to be matched with children, ages 5-16, who have been diagnosed with a serious illness or disability and could benefit from becoming a member of the team. To learn more, or if you know a child who may be interested, get in the game at www.teamimpact.org and @goteamimpact.

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