You are just not going to see a better sports story today than that of Grace Raich becoming a member of the Penn State women’s soccer team.
Grace, the sister of former Camp Hill and current PSU soccer star Julia Raich, was born with Down syndrome and has “multiple extreme heart defects and respiratory issues,” according to a story which appeared in The Carlisle Sentinel shortly after the pandemic began.
Grace is pretty, darned peppy though and she was definitely energized Saturday when she found out she was going to be made a member of the team.
“After practice today, I came in with Grace and her family, and offered her an official roster spot to join our Penn State women’s soccer team,” says coach Erica Dambach. “She accepted, and now I am going to present to you, Grace, your jersey and have you sign your letter of intent.”
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“Yes Grace!” someone yelled as the team cheered her sliding on her jersey.
Then Dambach introduces Grace as a member of the team.
The video closes out with Grace smiling, leading a “We Are” chant, and getting high-fives, hugs and congratulations from members of the team.
It just doesn’t get much better than that.
The Nittany Lions, with their newest member, are slated to host Duquesne at 1 pm Sunday. Admission is free.