The Mills Morgan Center’s Setzer Pavilion buzzed with excitement last week as Wright State’s men’s basketball head coach Clint Sargent presented a special signing ceremony for 14‑year‑old Shane, a youngster living with Bardet‑Biedl Syndrome and Stage 2 fatty liver disease. Family, teammates and local supporters gathered to witness the moment, underscoring the power of sport to unite communities around shared purpose.
A Partnership Built on Inclusion
Wright State’s decade‑long partnership with Team IMPACT has turned the university’s athletic department into a conduit for inclusive programming, allowing children like Shane to step onto the court, the field and the track alongside college athletes. The collaboration, now spanning ten years, reflects a commitment to social integration that goes beyond competition.
Shane’s medical journey is marked by resilience; despite the challenges posed by Bardet‑Biedl Syndrome — a genetic disorder that affects multiple organ systems — and a Stage 2 fatty liver condition, he approaches each day with a grateful heart. His participation in the program is not merely symbolic; it is a testament to the capacity of sport to empower individuals facing serious illness and disability.
Coach Clint Sargent highlighted Shane’s attitude during the ceremony, noting, “Shane brings a grateful heart, resilience and determination that enrich our team culture.” His words resonated with players who see in Shane a reminder that perseverance transcends physical limitations.
The Bigger Picture of Team IMPACT
Founded in 2011, Team IMPACT has matched more than 4,500 children with 850-plus colleges and universities across all 50 states, creating a national network that blends athletic competition with community building. The organization’s model pairs each child with a personalized game plan, encouraging socialization, empowerment and resilience through regular participation in varsity‑level practices and events.
The program’s reach extends to over 110,000 student‑athletes who have benefited from the mentorship, camaraderie and confidence that come from being part of a team. By integrating children into sports such as golf, volleyball, baseball, soccer, track & field and basketball, Team IMPACT ensures that the lessons of teamwork and perseverance are accessible to a diverse group of youngsters.