Nationwide voting is open for award honoring life-changing bonds between student-athletes and Team IMPACT matched children
BOSTON, MA (February 20, 2026) – Team IMPACT, a national nonprofit organization that matches children facing serious illness and disabilities with college athletic teams, today announced its finalists for the 2026 Teammate of the Year award. Five student-athletes from across the country have been named finalists for the award in recognition of going above and beyond as friends, mentors, and teammates for their Team IMPACT matches.
This year’s finalists include Bentley University swim and dive senior Sarah Griffith, nominated by her teammate, Cory; Berkeley Chandler, a Georgia Tech cheerleader, nominated by her teammate, Jenni Anne; Johanna Simon, a freshman spirit squad member from Weber State, nominated by her teammate, Kara; senior Blake Mesenburg, Miami University, Ohio hockey forward, nominated by his teammate, Liam; and Emmy Cardenas, a sophomore on the Winthrop University softball team, nominated by her teammate, Raegan.
“These student-athletes define what it means to be a teammate,” said Krissie Kelleher, CEO of Team IMPACT. “They have formed extraordinary bonds that are truly life-changing and transformative for the children and families that they are matched with. They embody the heart of the Team IMPACT mission, demonstrating leadership, compassion, and unwavering commitment.”
Teammate of the Year is one of Team IMPACT’s highest annual honors. Each finalist is featured on Team IMPACT’s website with video, written summary, and photo submission. The winner will be determined by online voting, and the Teammate of the Year and their nominating teammate will be recognized at Team IMPACT’s Game Day Gala in Boston on April 11. Voting for Teammate of the Year is now open at teamimpact.org/tmoy through March 8 at 11:59 PM ET.
