WARWICK, R.I. – Sunday morning, Members of the Massachusetts Maritime Softball team took part in the JDRF One Walk. The walk takes place annually to raise awareness and funds towards the fight against type one diabetes with one goal in mind, creating a world without type one diabetes.

In May of 2018, the softball team partnered with Team IMPACT, a national non-profit organization that connects children with serious and chronic illnesses with college athletics teams, forming life-long bonds and life-changing outcomes. On May 10^th, the team drafted 12 year old, Paetyn Tripp as the newest members of the Buccaneer softball squad. Paetyn lives with type one diabetes and took part in the walk with her fellow Bucs to help raise money.

"MMA softball loves having Paetyn as part of our team. She is a Buccaneer in every aspect and has been a great asset to the growth and development of our program." Said assistant softball coach Kaylene Murphy. "The week leading up to the walk, the team got together with Paetyn and her mom Maeghan for pizza and ice cream and we decorated insulin pods while learning about type 1 diabetes in preparation for the walk. Everyone loves having Paetyn and her family around, they make our team better and we are so grateful that they are part of the Buccaneer Family." Added Coach Murphy.

Paetyn, now 13, and her team, "Paetyn n' Company", raised over $1,300 leading up to the walk to donate to the fight against type one diabetes.

Even with this walk and the money raised, Paetyn's fight, and many others affected by type one diabetes, continues and the Maritime softball team, thanks in part to Team IMPACT, will be by Paetyn and her family's side every step of the way.

For more information about JDRF Click HERE. For more information about Team IMPACT Click HERE.