BEREA, Ohio – The Baldwin Wallace University men's lacrosse program and Friends of Jaclyn welcome Kyler Graham (Middleburg Heights/Big Creek Elementary) as its newest member for the 2022 season.

The Friends of Jaclyn Foundation is a national nonprofit organization that aims to improve the quality of life for children battling pediatric brian tumors and other childhood cancers by pairing them with local teams, clubs and community centers.

According to the National Cancer Institute's website, lymphoblastic leukemia is a type of cancer within the blood and bone marrow. This form of cancer is the most common type found within children.

"It has been such a blast being around the team," said Kyler's mother, Candice. "They are a great group of guys; with awesome energy and Kyler is just drawn to them."

Kyler was signed to the team this past fall, which featured a signing ceremony and bringing out the game ball at a home men's soccer game.

"One thing that is really cute is Kyler remembers and will randomly mention the evening when he first signed to the team, he calls it the "Kyler Party", stated Candice. "Being a part of the team has really made a positive impact on us, we look forward to continuing to be involved with the team, attending practices and games, and participating in fun events and activities."

This is not the first time first-year head coach Tony Tatro has seen the affect that a program like Friends of Jaclyn can make on all parties involved. As an assistant coach at BW, Tatro was able to see it first hand with Team IMPACT. The men's lacrosse team signed Grayson Oglesbee in Tatro's first season as an assistant coach

Kyler is going to be a part of the roster and will wear the number zero. He attend practices, games, events and more. 

"We hope that he will still be a part of the team in the future even after Kyler is cured and who knows maybe he will be a full time team member when he goes to college," said Candice.