PHILADELPHIA (September 22, 2025) – Last week the Thomas Jefferson University men’s soccer team welcomed a new member, eight-year-old Joshua, through Team IMPACT.

Joshua, who is battling cystic fibrosis, officially signed with the Rams on Sept. 17 in an on-campus ceremony prior to their home game against Bloomsburg University. He will participate in many activities with Jefferson, a member of the Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference, over the next two years.

Team IMPACT, a national non-profit organization, has developed a unique multiyear program that matches children facing serious illness and disability with college athletics 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.

“We’re so excited to welcome Joshua to our Jefferson Soccer family through Team IMPACT,” said Ram head coach Jason Rocha. “From the moment he joined us, his enthusiasm, joy, and incredible personality have been contagious. He inspires us to play the game with passion and reminds us what being a team is truly about. Joshua is a big part of our program, and we’re proud to have him alongside us this season.”

Founded in 1961, the Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference has been affiliated with NCAA Division II for 20 years. Conference institutions compete for championships in 17 sports – seven for men, nine for women, and one co-ed. The CACC contains 11 full members in Connecticut, Delaware, New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania. Membership includes the University of Bridgeport, Caldwell University, Chestnut Hill College, Dominican University New York, Felician University, Georgian Court University, Goldey-Beacom College, Holy Family University, Post University, Thomas Jefferson University, and Wilmington University.