Eleven-year-old Tom began his Team IMPACT journey in 2024, and ever since, he has found a forever friend. Tom was matched with the Elmhurst men’s basketball team through the organization and immediately was drawn to John “Witch” Witkowski. For the past two years, their friendship has grown and deepened exponentially.
Tom lives with Williams syndrome. When matched with Elmhurst basketball, he immediately became a staple on their team, building relationships with players who consider him one of their own. Among his friendships with the players, one specific player, Witch, stands out.
“He’s my best friend,” Tom said when asked why he wanted to nominate Witch for Teammate of the Year.
From the beginning, Witch has gone above and beyond to make Tom included in the team environment and keep them connected. He creates opportunities in both the season and offseason, for Tom to stay involved long after the final buzzer sounds.
The pair have spent countless hours together, from bowling and playing one-on-one basketball, to visiting the zoo and even crossing paths on vacations. They have even developed traditions of their own, including a secret handshake that shows how strong their bond is.
Witch’s unwavering support in addition to his friendship, is the biggest takeaway from their relationship. Tom explained that Witch helps him with rough days both on and off the court. Whether they are spending time together or are apart, Witch consistently shows up as a mentor and role model. He has a genuine interest in Tom’s life and celebrates all big and small moments with him.
“John, who goes by Witch, is a large part of what drives our match,” Tom’s mom, Mandi, shared. “He keeps both the team and Tom connected in the offseason by helping organize activities and outings. He makes sure Tom has a spot with the guys and has helped foster relationships with Tom and the team while also building a lasting friendship with Tom himself. He is always curious about what is going on in Tom’s life and has become like an older brother to Tom.”
The friendship between Tom and Witch reflects the heart of Team IMPACT’s mission. Sports may bring them together, but the genuine connection they build on and off the court is what continues to make the impact. This story reminds us that belonging to a team is more than just being a name on a roster; it is knowing that someone will save a spot next to them for you on the bench.
For Tom, that person is Witch.