UPLAND, Ind. – Taylor volleyball head coach, Erin Luthy, announced the signing of Elley Weaver on Tuesday. Weaver was partnered up with TU volleyball through Team IMPACT.
“We are so blessed to have the opportunity to have Elley as the newest member of the Taylor volleyball program,” stated Luthy. “We are so thankful that Team IMPACT has allowed our team to have the opportunity to build an incredible relationship with this sweet girl.”
Weaver is a nine-year old from La Fontaine, Indiana, who was diagnosed with Chiari Malformation in 2017. Chiari Malformation is a condition in which the brain tissue extends into the spinal canal, causing a host of issues that includes severe headaches, dizziness, numbness in extremities and hindered hand coordination.
“Elley has faced so much medical adversity over the past year and continues to progress through every step with so much love and a contagious smile,” Luthy continued. “She lights up the gym every time she steps foot on our court. Her enthusiasm and zeal are unmatchable and we are so excited to shed further light into her life and her family, as we continue to encourage her through giving her opportunities to be a part of our team.”
As a new member of the TU volleyball program, Weaver will attend team practices and matches, as well as team dinners and other various events. The relationship has already started, with Weaver participating in spring practices and workouts.
“She has had the opportunity to eat dinner with our team, blow the whistle during conditioning drills and lead cheers in our huddle,” Luthy stated. “We look forward to all of the exciting adventures that are still to come!”
Team IMPACT is a national nonprofit headquartered in Boston, Massachusetts that connects children facing serious or chronic illness with collegiate athletic teams, forming life-long bonds and life-changing outcomes. Since 2011, Team IMPACT has matched more than 1,400 children with more than 500 colleges and universities in 47 states, reaching over 50,000 participating student-athletes.
For more information on how to work with Team IMPACT, visit www.goteamimpact.org.