Chapman Hilliard connects with players, coaches through Team Impact program
Wednesday was an exciting draft day for the Transylvania Pioneers’ newest recruit — a 9-year-old from Lexington with big dreams and a bigger smile.
Chapman Hilliard recently matched with the Pioneers through Team Impact. The national organization connects children battling serious or chronic illnesses with college athletic teams.
At a draft day ceremony during halftime of Transy’s men’s basketball game, Chapman signed a letter of intent, making him officially a Pioneer. His involvement with the team includes attending some practices and games and interacting with players. He’s the second player to sign with Transylvania Athletics through Team Impact.
Based in Quincy, Massachusetts, Team Impact connects children and colleges to foster positive relationships for all those participating. According to the Team Impact website, “Our mission is to guide children and teams alike in a mutually beneficial relationship of belonging, empowerment and resilience. Through this program, our vision is to create a world where every child facing serious illness and disability feels supported by something bigger and every team is transformed by a greater purpose.”
Among those welcoming Chapman at today’s event was Zack Getsee, who is in his eighth year as head coach of the Transylvania baseball program. Chapman’s new teammates and the Pioneers fans also gave him a big Beck Center welcome.
Transylvania Pioneers baseball returns Feb. 17
The Pioneers open their baseball season Feb. 17 on the road in Memphis against Webster University. Their first home game is March 2 against Depauw at the Lexington professional baseball stadium, their home field for the next 20 years.
