TACOMA, Wash. — The Pacific Lutheran University swimming programs added an impact athlete to its roster on Friday, signing 11-year old Chris Absher to the team in a special Draft Day ceremony prior to the Lutes' dual meet with Pacific University.

  "It's such an honor to have Chris officially joining the roster. I think what stands out the most about Chris is his positive energy and the supportive attitude he brings to the pool deck," said Aidan Koshinsky.
 
"Before we even met him, he was already sending us videos cheering us on, and he really lights up all of our days to see that. I can't wait to see how many hi-fives I can rack up and really glad Chris is joining the team."
 
Chris is an 11-year old superstar from Team IMPACT. Chris lives in Puyallup with his parents and three brothers and was born with spina bifida and hydrocephalus. Chris describes himself as adventures and friendly. The superpower he'd most like to have is fire. His dream vacation is Hawaii and his favorite movie is Zombies 4.
 
"Chris is a true ray of sunshine for our program. He's such a beautiful and energetic soul inside and out and continually shows that every day with our team. We're very grateful for the opportunity to share the space with him and his family," said Head Coach Andrew Lum.
 
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.

The PLU swim team is the latest in a long line of Lute teams that have partnered with Team IMPACT. The Lutes have also signed kids through Team IMPACT in the sports of baseball, basketball, and football. 
 
Chris' presence helped the Lutes sweep Friday's dual meet with the men earning a decisive 98-23 dual meet victory over the Boxers with the women prevailing 109-55.