The Virginia Cavaliers Baseball team is adding one more name to their travel roster as they head into the 2021 College World Series: Parker Staples.
Parker, then 8, was diagnosed with Burkitt’s Lymphoma in December of 2017 and signed with Virginia Baseball through Team IMPACT in April of 2018. When Parker first joined the team, he was reserved, struggled with self-confidence, and felt nervous to try new things—but you would never know that meeting the 12-year-old now.
In the years since, Parker and his teammates have spent hours together cheering each other on at baseball games and practices; grabbing pizza and ice cream together; tossing around the football or baseball when they meet up in person; playing online video games when they’re socially distanced; and regularly checking in through text, FaceTime, and video chats. Parker’s bond to his teammates has increased his self-confidence and overall health—emotionally, mentally, and physically.
The team provided Parker and his family support, love, and laughter through countless hospital stays, surgeries, chemotherapy treatments, emergency room visits, and scheduled appointments as Parker fought— and ultimately beat—cancer. Parker celebrated with his teammates through big wins, guided them through tough losses, and provided perspective and a team mentality to push yourself and never—ever—give up. Now, through Team IMPACT, Parker and his teammates will be side-by-side for yet another major milestone: competing in the 2021 College World Series.
As the Cavaliers continue to fight for their second National Championship, they know they can count of their biggest fan and bravest teammate, Parker, to be cheering them on from the stands as they take the field against Tennessee this Sunday in Omaha.