LOS ANGELES, Calif. – UCLA Men's Rugby and Team IMPACT are proud to celebrate the remarkable journey of Dylan Rossi and the lasting impact he has made through a two-year partnership with the Bruins.
Team IMPACT is a national nonprofit organization that matches children facing serious illness or disability with collegiate athletic teams, creating meaningful relationships that foster socialization, empowerment, and resilience. Through its structured matching program, children become official members of college teams, participating in practices, competitions, team events, and other experiences that provide a sense of belonging and community.
Since being matched with UCLA Men's Rugby through Team IMPACT in 2024, Dylan has become much more than a teammate—he has become family. Over the past two years, UCLA Rugby players, coaches, and staff have shared countless memories with Dylan while witnessing his incredible resilience, determination, and growth.
Dylan's journey has also included a deeply meaningful chapter in which he received care and treatment for cancer at UCLA Health. During this time, members of the UCLA Rugby team visited Dylan in the hospital to offer support, encouragement, and friendship. In one especially memorable moment, the team presented Dylan with a UCLA Rugby jersey while he was undergoing treatment—a gesture that symbolized his place as an official member of the team and the strength of the bond he shares with his teammates.
Two years ago, Dylan celebrated a major milestone when he rang the bell marking the completion of his treatment. That moment remains a powerful and emotional memory for everyone involved in the program, representing resilience, hope, and the progress he has continued to make since that day.
Most importantly, the UCLA Rugby family is thrilled to celebrate the positive strides Dylan has made in his health and well-being. Watching him continue to grow stronger, embrace new experiences, and enjoy life to the fullest has been a source of joy and inspiration for everyone connected to the program. His journey serves as a powerful reminder of the strength of the human spirit and the impact that support, community, and meaningful relationships can have along the way.
As an official member of the team, Dylan has participated in practices, matches, team events, and celebrations, quickly becoming an integral part of the Bruins. His infectious smile, positive outlook, and unwavering courage have left a lasting impression on everyone he has encountered.
One of the most memorable moments of Dylan's partnership with UCLA Rugby came when he designed a special set of team jerseys inspired by his favorite heroes—the Jedi from Star Wars. Working alongside the program, Dylan helped bring his vision to life, creating a unique design that was proudly worn by the Bruins in competition. Following the match, the jerseys were auctioned off, with proceeds benefiting The Little Warrior Foundation, an organization dedicated to funding research aimed at finding a cure for Ewing's Sarcoma—the cancer Dylan courageously battled. The initiative showcased not only Dylan's creativity and passion, but also his commitment to helping others and making a lasting impact beyond the rugby field.
"Dylan has been an extraordinary teammate and friend to our program," said UCLA Men's Rugby Head Coach Harry Bennett. "Over the past two years, we've had the privilege of watching him overcome challenges, achieve milestones, and continue to thrive. While our players hoped to make a positive impact on Dylan's life, the reality is that Dylan has inspired our team every single day. His strength, resilience, and positivity have made us all better."
The partnership has also fostered a special connection between UCLA Rugby and the Rossi family. Their courage, trust, and generosity have allowed UCLA student-athletes to experience the true power of mentorship, empathy, and community beyond the rugby field.
Throughout his time with the team, Dylan has shared in countless memories with the Bruins. Whether cheering on his teammates, celebrating victories, participating in team activities, or simply brightening someone's day with a smile, Dylan's presence has become an important part of the culture and spirit of UCLA Rugby.
"Dylan's journey embodies everything Team IMPACT strives to achieve through our program," said Jackie Avila - Regional Case Manager Lead, West . "The connection between Dylan, the Rossi family, and UCLA Men's Rugby demonstrates the lasting impact these relationships can have on everyone involved. We are grateful to celebrate Dylan's progress and the incredible bond that has developed over the past two years."
As UCLA Men's Rugby and Team IMPACT reflect on this partnership, both organizations are proud of the memories created, the milestones achieved, and the positive impact Dylan has had on the entire UCLA Rugby community.
Today, UCLA Men's Rugby celebrates Dylan's health, his journey, and the incredible person he has become. Most of all, the program celebrates a teammate whose influence will continue to be felt long after his official Team IMPACT match concludes.
Dylan Rossi will forever be a Bruin and a cherished member of the UCLA Rugby family.
About Team IMPACT
Team IMPACT is a national nonprofit organization that matches children facing serious illness or disability with collegiate athletic teams. Through a clinical model focused on socialization, empowerment, and resilience, Team IMPACT creates life-changing relationships that benefit children, families, and student-athletes alike. Since its founding in 2011, Team IMPACT has matched thousands of children with college athletic teams across the country, creating meaningful experiences and lasting connections through the power of sport.
