Twelve young people from the First Coast and South Georgia have been chosen as the 2026 "Dream Team" for the TaxSlayer Gator Bowl, an annual college football game.
Aubreigh, from Bryceville, has played competitive basketball, softball, and volleyball. Elsie, from Jacksonville, likes to play golf and bake. Jace, 17, finished his last cancer treatment two weeks ago and will be back on the practice field for his high school football team within a matter of days.
The kids were introduced as the Gator Bowl's "Dream Team" on August 6 at the WJCT Studios. They signed their letters of intent to join the Gator Bowl Association as ambassadors and honorary members. The activities don't stop there – they will be able to attend team selection meetings and go on a scouting trip to a University of Florida game during the season.
Gator Bowl President Greg McGarity said the kids have one thing in common: "Bravery," he said.
The kids have either conquered or are in the process of dealing with issues ranging from childhood cancer, brain tumors, heart defects, genetic mutations, and cerebral palsy. Some are now cancer-free and have "rung the bell" signifying their departure from medical facilities. Others are still battling.
Mike Cobb, President and CEO of Momentum Transportation, is a sponsor of the Gator Bowl Dream Team. His daughter Abbey, who was born with scoliosis, has been through multiple surgeries. She's now 25 years old and works for her father in the marketing department.
Dreams Come True, the charity partner of the Gator Bowl, has helped more than 5,000 kids since its launch in Jacksonville in 1984. The organization's Executive Director Anna Valent said, "It's pretty magical about what these kids want, what they're trying to do and what it means to them."
The kids will be able to meet players, coaches, cheerleaders, and mascots from the SEC and ACC teams selected for the game on December 30. They will also be recognized on the field before the game.
Later this year, they will be presented with their Gator Bowl Association green jackets and their own trading cards.
Source: Yahoo Sports