Teen Battling Vascular Disease Inspires Northwestern Baseball Team

EVANSTON, IL - A 13-year-old boy who has battled a rare vascular condition throughout his life will have access to the Northwestern University baseball locker room all season long when the Wildcats begin play in the spring.

The team drafted Sam Horcher of Des Plaines in a ceremonial press conference last month thanks to a partnership the university has with Team IMPACT, a national organization with a mission to improve the quality of life for children facing threatening and chronic illnesses.

Horcher was presented his own locker in the clubhouse that came with a nameplate and team-issued gear.
Head Coach Spencer Allen called Horcher an inspiration for the team.

"We have had draft day circled on the calendar for a long time," he said. "The perseverance he has demonstrated through his adversities gives us inspiration. We are extremely excited to officially make him part of our family."

Photo via Northwestern Athletics