The Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) men's hockey program announced the signing of Patrick Buffaline through Team IMPACT in January of 2023.
Patrick participates with the team for many activities including games, practices, and other team events. Patrick's first event with RPI was the Mayor's Cup matchup against Union at MVP Arena on January 27, 2023.
"I am really excited to have Patrick join our hockey program," said head coach
Dave Smith at the time of Patrick's signing. "With his energy, enthusiasm, and passion for sports, he will make our program better. Great days ahead with Patrick are what all of us are looking forward to."
Team IMPACT, a national non-profit organization, has developed a unique multiyear program that matches children facing serious illness and disability with college athletic teams across the country. Based on a clinical model, Team IMPACT guides a symbiotic relationship between teams and children focused on socialization, empowerment, and resilience.
"We are beyond excited to welcome Patrick to our team," said junior forward
Jakob Lee. "His perseverance is an inspiration to us all, and we can't wait to add another character person to our team."
Additionally, junior
Jake Gagnon said, "This year's team is a close group, and we are super excited to welcome another brother into the locker room."
About Team IMPACT
Team IMPACT's unique multiyear program signs children facing serious illness and disability onto college athletic teams across the country. Based on a clinical model, Team IMPACT guides a symbiotic relationship between teams and children focused on socialization, empowerment, and resilience, ensuring everyone involved has the personalized game plan they need to win – effectively building confidence and independence. Founded in 2011, Team IMPACT has matched more than 2,300 children with 700+ colleges and universities in 49 states, impacting more than 60,000 student-athletes. If you know a child or team who may be interested, please visit www.teamimpact.org.
