DAVIS, Calif. - On Saturday, April 5, the UC Davis football team welcomed back and celebrated Team IMPACT member and future linebacker Jamison's victory over leukemia before their practice at UC Davis Health Stadium.

Jamison, who joined the Aggie family last June through Team IMPACT, completed his final round of treatment last week. As a celebration, the Aggie football team invited him and his family out to their Saturday practice.

As practice got underway at Bob Biggs Practice Field, Jamison was welcomed by head coach Tim Plough and the rest of the team. Following the first hour of practice, the team transitioned to the UC Davis Health Stadium while Jamison and his family were given tours of the Edwards Family Athletics Center. 

Unbeknownst to Jamison, the team was planning something special for him.

As he and his family stepped onto the field, Jamison was greeted by the team, who lined up inside the tunnel to give him a roar of approval for winning his battle against leukemia. At mid-field, Coach Plough presented him with a football signed by the entire team and a video congratulating him on his achievement.

"Our program focuses on Finding Joy every single day," said Plough. "We find it in daily improvement and working to be our very best. Jamison has been inspiring our team since I got here. 

"He inspires us with his commitment to finding joy even in the most difficult of circumstances. It was a powerful moment for our team to see that because Jamison stayed committed and was able to ring that bell and win something far more important than any trophy. We're all proud of him, and he makes us all better."

This moment was also impactful for Jamison's parents, Sara and Dave, who have both been inspired by the team's unwavering optimism and faith throughout Jamison's treatment process.

"This has been an absolutely incredible experience." Jamison's mom, Sara, said. "Jamison has his mentors, Connor [Boneiso], David [Rasor], and [Matthew] Staycer; they've been incredible by checking in with Jamison when he's been in the hospital and he's had treatment, making him feel part of the family here." 

"But beyond that, the entire team has been extremely gracious, welcoming, and supportive of Jamison this whole time, and we couldn't be happier being a part of this program of Team IMPACT."

Team IMPACT's unique multi year 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.

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