Boston College Athletics
Women's Basketball Signs Maria Rahwan Through Team IMPACT
September 19, 2023 | Women's Basketball
CHESTNUT HILL, Mass. – Boston College women's basketball head coach Joanna Bernabei-McNamee announced a new team member, signing 16-year-old Maria Rahwan through Team IMPACT.
Maria, who was diagnosed with a heart defect and down syndrome, was officially introduced at a signing day press conference Wednesday, September 20th, on campus. She will participate in many activities with the women's basketball team including games, practices, and other team events.
"Team IMPACT is excited to see Maria officially join the Eagles," said Ryan Irwin, Executive Director, Northeast at Team IMPACT. "We are very proud of our official partnership with Boston College ,and the opportunity we have to work together with their athletic department and coaching staff to create lifelong bonds and life-changing experiences for BC student-athletes and their Team IMPACT teammates. Congratulations Maria on the big day and Go Eagles!"
Boston College has worked with Team IMPACT for the past 12 years, matching 27 children across its men's and women's basketball, men's and women's soccer, baseball, women's lacrosse, football, swimming and diving, men's and women's hockey, cheerleading, women's volleyball, men's golf, women's field hockey, and women's track teams.
"With open hearts, we welcome Maria and the Rahwan family into our basketball program. Together we will build bonds that last a lifetime. Maria's uplifting spirit and love for basketball will inspire us on and off the court. We are excited to welcome Maria to The Heights!" said Bernabei-McNamee.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.
