9-year-old Zach Bucklew signs letter of intent with Walsh football

Lake Elementary School’s very own 9-year-old Zach Bucklew, a fourth grader already wearing a Cavaliers jersey, signed his name on a two-year letter of intent to join the Walsh Cavaliers college football team Dec. 16. Cavaliers head football coach John Fankhauser, offensive lineman Colin Simon and defensive back Ty Miller, a 2023 Lake High School graduate, visited Lake Elementary to take part in the signing.

In addition to his mother, Jennifer, brother Nathan and sister Elizabeth, several of Zach’s classmates and teachers, Lake Elementary Principal Joey Brightwell, Lake Local Schools Superintendent Brett Yeagley and Athletic Director Broc Cline all took part in the unique opportunity.

Katie Connell, Walsh’s head softball coach, assistant athletic director for student development, senior woman administrator and Student-Athlete Advisory Committee adviser, represented Walsh while coordinating the event with Zach’s fourth-grade school counselor, Moriah Joy. Zach’s fourth-grade teachers are Cari Hetler for math, Sharon Swope for language arts, and Jen Obourn for science and social studies. Also in attendance with Brightwell were Lake Elementary assistant principals Alissa Milini and Justin Brosey.

Zach lives in Hartville with his parents, Jennifer and Keith, and his older siblings, Nathan and Elizabeth. He was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia in January 2025 and currently receives outpatient chemotherapy every 10 days. Connell described Zach as a sweet and loving boy who enjoys sports, particularly men’s basketball and football, as well as video games.

Zach is looking forward to participating in more activities with the Cavaliers football team, and as he cheers for the team, the Cavaliers are rallying behind him in his fight. He began attending practices with the Cavaliers in August and went to three home games this fall. During the final home game, he led the team onto the field. Because Zach could not run, the team walked behind him, creating a longer, more meaningful entrance.

At the signing, Fankhauser invited Zach to visit the weight room in the near future, noting that college football requires a year-round commitment. Fankhauser also said Zach would have his own locker and asked which number he wanted to wear. Zach quickly responded with No. 18.

Team IMPACT was instrumental in connecting the Cavaliers and Zach to create memorable experiences as a member of the team. Walsh University is actively involved with Team IMPACT, a national nonprofit organization that matches children facing serious illnesses and disabilities with college athletic teams.

Walsh’s partnership with Team IMPACT began when the Walsh family learned about the organization and recognized the opportunity it provides for children like Zach to participate in college athletics, offering life-changing experiences through sports. The program focuses on socialization, empowerment and resilience, providing each child with a personalized game plan designed to build confidence and independence.

“I look forward to our continued collaboration and working to match Walsh Athletics and Team IMPACT families like the Bucklews,” Connell said.

Team IMPACT and the NCAA recently announced a strategic alliance aimed at strengthening Team IMPACT’s mission and expanding its reach. The partnership is expected to bring the program to more families and student-athletes nationwide while fostering long-term friendships that promote belonging, empowerment and resilience. Organizers believe the collaboration will transform lives by offering strength, connection and hope to both children and student-athletes.