DAVIS, Calif. – UC Davis football officially announced, on June 25, the signing of incoming linebacker Jamison through Team IMPACT as part of the incoming class ahead of the 2024 season.
Jamison, a 15-year-old Rocklin, Calif. native, joins the Davis linebacking corps and will be a staple on the Aggie sideline for the upcoming season.
"Life is about finding joy," said UC Davis football head coach
Tim Plough. "Jamison is such a great example of someone that finds joy every day and our team can a learn a lot from him. Team Impact is phenomenal, and we're honored to be a part of it. To have Jamison join our team as we embark on this journey for 2024 motivates us all to work even harder to become the best team we can be"
The self-described hardworking and fun new member of the Blue and Gold, has been battling leukemia and through it all has showcased true "Aggie Pride". He is currently in the maintenance phase of his treatment, and he plans on strapping on a football helmet for the first time this year.
"I think having someone like Jamison around our team is amazing," said sophomore offensive lineman
Matthew Staycer. "He's a great kid with an awesome personality and being able to have him with us and supporting us is awesome. Seeing the smile on his face when the team was cheering for him was amazing and it's inspiring seeing a kid like him having gone through what he's gone through, and continues to go through, keep such high spirits."
Staycer was part of a collection of four Aggies who spent the day taking Jamison on a tour of the athletic facility, touring the Aggie locker room, taking the field like the team will and stopping by coach Plough's office. Coach Plough then offered Jamison a spot on the team, followed by Jamison signing his letter of intent to officially join the Aggies.
Jamison then met his new teammates to a loud roar that echoed out of the Edwards Family Athletics Center.
"Having Jamison around really brightens up the culture with the guys," added senior defensive back
Kavir Bains. "He impacts the team in a way we have never seen before. Jamison has been through so much and I think he'll be able to share his experiences on how he has overcome everything, which is something we can all learn from. He is a very strong person and I can't wait for this upcoming season to see him grow and to see the impact he has on our team."
Team IMPACT's unique multiyear program matches children facing serious illness and disability with college athletic teams across the country. Their mission is to guide children and teams alike in a mutually beneficial relationship of belonging, empowerment, and resilience.
Through this program, their vision is to create a world where every child facing serious illness and disability feels supported by something bigger and every team is transformed by a greater purpose. When we're all in together, we all win together.
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This story is an example of UC Davis Athletics' commitment to the Ignite Strategic Plan Pillar of "Diversity, Equity and Inclusion" by providing UC Davis athletes with an opportunity for inclusive community outreach. Read more about our strategic plan here; IGNITE
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