AMHERST, Mass. -- The Amherst College football team signed Lawrence " Lars" Thompson of Team Impact as an honorary member of the Mammoths recently.

Team Impact matches children facing serious illness and disabilities with college sports teams, creating a life-changing experience. Lars and his late brother, Kenjamin, were originally paired with the Amherst football program on March 7, 2023. 

"The Amherst football family is excited to welcome Lars Thompson and his parents into the Amherst football family," said E.J. Mills, head football coach at Amherst. "Lars is an exceptional young boy who already has made a positive impact on T.E.A.M. 142. Lars' lived experiences have been challenging for a young boy. However, his positive and resilient attitude serves as a great model for our players. We are cranked up to have Lars as a member of T.E.A.M. 142!"

Lars officially signed with the team on Monday, September 25th at a ceremony held at the Conway Field House. He will participate in many activities with the Mammoths over the next two years, including games, practices, and other team events. 

"It has been really special to adopt Lars as a part of the team as well as honoring his brother Kenji," Mammoth senior Clay Zachery said. "Lars has brought the team a lot of energy and it's always a great day when he comes to visit and chats up with the guys about Minecraft, Recess and so much more."

Team Impact, a national non-profit organization, has developed a unique multiyear program that matches children facing serious illness and disabilities 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.