BUFFALO, NY – D'Youville University women's soccer head coach Angela Nicholas-Tolsma announced a new team member, signing 15-year-old Naliaka Masika through Team IMPACT.
 
Naliaka, a cancer survivor, was officially at a signing day press conference on September 28th at Dobson Field prior to the Saints' contest against Queens College. She will participate in many activities with the team including games, practices, and other team events.
 
Team IMPACT, a national non-profit organization, has developed a unique multiyear program that matches children facing serious illness and disability with college athletic 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.
 
"Team IMPACT is excited to see Naliaka join the Saints," said Emma Simches, Regional Director of Programs, Northeast at Team IMPACT. "We are proud to work with D'Youville University, their athletic department, and coaching staff to create lifelong bonds and life-changing outcomes between student-athletes and their Team IMPACT teammates."
 
D'Youville University has worked with Team IMPACT for the past three years, matching six children across its baseball, men's & women's soccer, women's tennis, and men's basketball teams.
 
"We are beyond excited to welcome Nalia to our Saints family," said Nicholas-Tolsma. "We are looking forward to building lifelong memories and friendships with Nalia and know this will be an enriching experience for all involved. She's a special kid and the perfect addition to our program!"
 
About Team IMPACT
Team IMPACT's unique multiyear program signs children facing serious illness and disability onto college athletic 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, ensuring everyone involved has the personalized game plan they need to win – effectively building confidence and independence. Founded in 2011, Team IMPACT has matched over 3,000 children with 700+ colleges and universities in all 50 states, impacting more than 75,000 student-athletes. If you know a child or team who may be interested, please visit www.teamimpact.org.