PITT-BRADFORD MEN'S BASKETBALL, CHEERLEADING GIVE SIBLINGS A DAY TO REMEMBER

The University of Pittsburgh at Bradford men's basketball and cheerleading teams welcomed new members to their squads Saturday at the KOA Arena.

January 30, 2018

The University of Pittsburgh at Bradford men's basketball and cheerleading teams welcomed new members to their squads Saturday at the KOA Arena.

New Pitt-Bradford basketball signee Elijah Schlopy, 10, and his sister, new cheerleader Renae Schlopy, 8, signed contracts made possible by Team IMPACT CF Project sponsored by Vertex Pharmaceuticals.

Both Elijah and Renae suffer from cystic fibrosis, a progressive, genetic disease that causes persistent lung infections and limits the ability to breathe over time.

Team IMPACT sponsored press conferences at which Elijah and Renae signed their contracts surrounded by their new coaches and teammates.

"Our goal was to make Elijah feel special and I think we were able to do that," Head Men's Basketball Coach Sean Brown, Sr. said. "I think it turned out to be a really great event and I think Elijah really enjoyed the day and it really meant a lot to him and his family. I want to thank Team IMPACT for letting us partner with them to do all this for Elijah. My team and I all look forward to having him around at more games and practices as his health improves."

"We are so thankful that we got to be a part of this experience with Renae and her family," Head Cheerleading Coach Sydney Snyder said. "Everyone had a great time officially welcoming Renae onto the team and cheering alongside her at the game. Team IMPACT is a wonderful organization for us to be a part of, and our squad has really enjoyed their time with Renae so far, and can't wait for the rest of the season."

Team IMPACT is a national nonprofit that connects children facing serious and chronic illnesses with local college athletic teams, forming life-long bonds and life-changing outcomes. Through the Team IMPACT CF Project sponsored by Vertex Pharmaceuticals, children who have CF, like Elijah and Renae, are drafted onto local college athletic teams and become an official member of the team to support the child's physical, social and emotional needs. By being a part of the Pitt-Bradford men's basketball and cheerleading programs, Elijah and Renae will attend practices, games, team dinners, events, and more. http://www.goteamimpact.org/partnerships/corporate-community/vertex-pharmaceuticals.html

For a full photo album from the day's signings, click here .