WASHINGTON – The American University wrestling program has a new teammate. Through a partnership with Team IMPACT, AU wrestling has officially been matched with Raphael, who will join the Eagles as a member of the team.

Raph brings plenty of personality to the room. His favorite movie is Herbie Rides Again, his favorite athlete is soccer star Kylian Mbappé, and his favorite animals are cheetahs because they are so fast. His dream vacation? Going back to Paris and riding all the way to the top of the Eiffel Tower.

"We are excited to welcome Raphael into our wrestling family," said head coach Jason Borelli. "We talk every day about being good teammates, showing up for others, and doing things the right way. Having Raph with us is a chance for our guys to live those values, build a meaningful relationship, and learn that being a great teammate goes far beyond what happens on the mat."

Sophomore Gavin Cohen, who wrestles at 157 pounds, will serve as one of Raph's team mentors.

"My teammates and I are excited to get to know Raph, and we're grateful for the opportunity to welcome him as one of our own," said Cohen. "Being part of this team is about more than wrestling, and we are looking forward to building a lifelong relationship with him, supporting him, and making sure he knows he's part of our family and an Eagle for life."

As an official member of the team, Raph will spend time with the Eagles throughout the season, building lasting friendships with student-athletes who are just as excited to learn from him as he is to be part of the team.

Team IMPACT is a national nonprofit that connects children facing serious illnesses and disabilities with college athletic teams, creating lifelong bonds and life-changing outcomes for the children, their families, and the student-athletes involved. For student-athletes, the experience builds empathy, perspective, and leadership. For kids like Raph, it means belonging, encouragement, and a team that shows up for them. The NCAA has expanded its collaboration with Team IMPACT to help bring these connections to more campuses nationwide.

Partnerships like this reflect AU Athletics' commitment to developing student-athletes who lead with purpose and make an impact in their communities, on and off the mat.
Welcome to the team, Raph!

To learn more about Team IMPACT, visit teamimpact.org and read about Team IMPACT x NCAA.