The friendships formed through team often extend beyond the field. For Wyatt and Vincent, their friendship was forged first on the lacrosse field. “Vince always makes a big deal out of Wyatt showing up. He is the first one to run over and say hi whenever we attend games and practices,” Wyatt’s mom, Bethany, said. “He lets Wyatt run drills with him and pass the ball around, and he made sure Wyatt has Clarkson attire to wear when he goes to see the team.”
Though it started with lacrosse, Wyatt and Vince’s friendship quickly became so much more. “Vince is like a big brother,” Bethany said. “Wyatt can talk to him when he’s having an off day. He goes out of his way to text or call Wyatt, to encourage him when he’s feeling down.” This constant support and true friendship is what made Wyatt want to nominate Vince as his Teammate of the Year.
Just as Wyatt cheers at his teammates’ games, his teammates support him at his sporting events as well. This winter, Vince organized a day where the entire Clarkson lacrosse team showed up to Wyatt’s playoff hockey game, loudly cheering their youngest teammate on from the stands. Because of the team, Bethany says, “Wyatt is more confidence and not scared to make friends.”
“Vince goes above and beyond to make Wyatt feel welcome, above and beyond what we ever expected, and for that, we are grateful,” Bethany said. “He makes sure Wyatt always feels included and valued as part of their team. He knows how to make Wyatt laugh and come out of his shell.” Together, Wyatt and Vince have created a special bond they are both grateful for and know extends far beyond their mutual love of lacrosse.
“Thank you, Team IMPACT, for finding the perfect team and teammate for Wyatt!” Bethany said.
