The University of Northern Iowa soccer program announced a heart‑warming addition to its roster: 12‑year‑old Hadley Foelske, who lives with cystic fibrosis, has been named Kid Captain for the 2026 and 2027 seasons.
Hadley, a native of Jesup, Iowa, was diagnosed with the chronic lung disease shortly after birth, yet she has never let her condition dim her passion for sport. Over the years she has taken part in youth volleyball and basketball events on the UNI campus, building friendships with classmates and teammates alike.
A partnership that goes beyond the field
The Panthers partnered with the nonprofit organization Team IMPACT to formalize the Kid Captain role. Team IMPACT specializes in linking children facing serious illness with college athletic teams, creating bonds that extend well beyond game day.
Hadley’s mother, Nikki Foelske, described her daughter as sweet, kind, compassionate, and a true sports enthusiast at heart. The family has been longtime supporters of UNI athletics, attending games and cheering on the Panthers from the stands.
Welcoming a new teammate
Head coach Alex Place Thomas expressed excitement about integrating Hadley into the Panther family, noting that her presence will enrich the team’s culture and inspire both players and fans alike.
The Panthers will showcase their new Kid Captain during two preseason exhibition matches scheduled for August. The regular season officially kicks off on August 12, marking the start of a year filled with community outreach and special events.
Fans can follow UNI women’s soccer action on social media platforms such as Facebook, X, and Instagram, where schedule updates, roster changes, and behind‑the‑scenes moments are shared regularly. Comprehensive information about the team’s schedule and roster is also available at UNIpanthers.com.