Carnegie Mellon Track and Field Teams Partner With Team IMPACT

Carnegie Mellon Track and Field Teams Partner With Team IMPACT

From Carnegie Mellon University Athletics

On Monday, January 15, the Carnegie Mellon University men's and women's track and field teams welcomed 11-year-old Ekow Opoku-Dakwa to the team through its Team IMPACT "Draft Day" Ceremony.

Ekow is a Pittsburgh resident who was diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy in 2007. While courageously battling the diagnosis, Ekow, who enjoys track and sled hockey, will attend various events with Tartan team members after signing with the team on January 15. Ekow will be welcome at practices, meets, and team dinners, and will have the opportunity to meet up with track and field team members off campus for fun activities.

"I am really excited that Ekow is officially a member of the CMU Track and Field team," stated sophomore Jamie Greenwell. "I believe that although we will make a difference in Ekow's life, he will make an even bigger impact on our lives. As a key part of this team, Ekow will give us perspective on what it truly means to overcome adversity and how to be a true champion. I hope that through this experience, he is able to feel like he is part of not only a team, but a family."

Ekow is the fifth child signed to a Carnegie Mellon athletic team through Team IMPACT. The Boston-headquartered national nonprofit has the mission to improve the quality of life for children facing serious and chronic illnesses through the power of team.