WISE - - Boston-headquartered national nonprofit Team IMPACT, whose mission is to improve the quality of life for children facing serious and chronic illnesses through the power of team, along with The University of Virginia's College at Wise softball program, will hold a special Draft Day celebration for Emily Hale on Friday, September 7 at 6:30 p.m. inside the Chancellor's Suite at the David J. Prior Convocation Center.

A native of Coeburn, Virginia, Hale was diagnosed with Immune Dysfunction in 2016. The nine-year old was matched with the UVa-Wise softball program through Team IMPACT over the summer and will become an official member of the team as she signs an official Letter of Intent during her Draft Day ceremony Friday evening.

Hale's Draft Day event will include special remarks by Co-Head Coach Karen Bitter and Director of Athletics Kendall Rainey. Hale will also receive official team gear and be named the honorary captain for the UVa-Wise football game against Concord University on September 15.

Team IMPACT is a national nonprofit headquartered in Boston, Mass. that connects children facing serious or chronic illnesses with college athletic teams, forming life-long bonds and life-changing outcomes. Since 2011, Team IMPACT has matched nearly 1,600 children with more than 500 colleges and universities in 48 states, reaching over 50,000 participating student-athletes.

Team IMPACT has more than 1,000 teams waiting to be matched with children, ages 5-16, who have been diagnosed with a serious or chronic illness and who could benefit from becoming a member of the team. If you know a child who may be interested, visit www.goteamimpact.org for more information.