Davidson Elementary second grader becomes heart of Park University’s softball team

APRIL 24, 2026

PARKVILLE, Mo. – In the world of collegiate athletics, the big win is usually measured by a trophy or a conference title.

But for the Park University’s softball team, the most significant victory of the season didn't happen on the diamond. It happened at a table in a room filled with "Go Pirates" chants and a single sheet of paper.

That was the day 8-year-old Chloe Wilson officially signed her letter of intent.

The second grader at Davidson Elementary wasn’t their typical recruit. Fans won't find her in the pitching circle or diving for a grounder at shortstop. Chloe lives with a rare form of congenital muscular dystrophy (LAMA2), a condition present from birth that impacts her physical mobility.

Through Team IMPACT, a national non-profit that matches children facing serious illnesses with college sports teams, Chloe has become the literal heart of the Pirates’ roster.

For Chloe’s mother, Carol Wilson, the signing ceremony in October represented a milestone she once feared her daughter might never see.

"With Chloe’s diagnosis, the possibility of high school and college is pretty rare," Wilson said. "To be able to be a part of this and her get to experience the good parts of college life … it’s just really special that we get to do it all."

While much of the Wilson family’s daily life is consumed by the logistical hurdles of Chloe’s disability, the Park softball team has provided a space where the focus shifts from limitations to celebration.

"The goal is for her to know that she is fantastic the way she is," Wilson said. "We're not here for a long time. We're here for a good time. And that is, the goal is to be good and have fun."

The partnership is far from a one-time photo op.

Chloe meets with the team twice a month, weaving herself into the university’s "Champions of Character" culture. The players have visited Chloe’s school to watch her receive Student of the Month honors, and in return, Chloe has hosted the team for tea parties and a memorable birthday celebration.

"She’s a little spitfire," said head coach Lindsey Derry. "She’s super creative and talkative. She’s our honorary captain. She’s teaching us a lot about life, too, and even though it’s a two-year program, she’ll be with us long after that."

For the North Kansas City Schools community, Chloe’s presence on a college roster sends a powerful message to other families navigating similar paths.

"You're not only helping your own child, but you are also just opening it up for all of the parents to say, 'Hey, this is somewhere maybe I would want my child to go,'" Wilson said.

The bond reached its peak during Park’s home opener on March 9. Following a double-header sweep over Doane University, Chloe took her place behind home plate. She wasn’t in the starting lineup, but her voice was the loudest in the stadium.

With two simple words, Chloe reminded everyone why they play the game.

“Play ball,” she exclaimed.

It was a reminder that sometimes, the most valuable player on the field is the one who changes the game without ever needing a jersey.

About Davidson Elementary

Established in 1952, Davidson Elementary is one of 21 elementary schools located in the North Kansas City Schools. Davidson Elementary lies in the southern part of district and has approximately 625 students, in grades kindergarten through fifth. Their student population is diverse and currently represents approximately 20-25 languages spoken in their students’ homes. Davidson is the ninth most-diverse elementary school in the state of Missouri.

Media Contact

Chris Oberholtz, Assistant Director of Media Communications
chris.oberholtz@nkcschools.org | 816-836-938