The nomination recognizes the life-changing bond Caden Hudak '26 developed with a "Team Impact" child connected to the BW men's basketball team.
Matthew Droes (left) with "Teammate of the Year" finalist Caden Hudak '26
The national "Team IMPACT" organization matches children facing serious illness and disability with college athletic teams across the country, including Baldwin Wallace University.
When Matthew Droes, who has Williams Syndrome, was matched with the BW men's basketball team, his parents were excited since they both attended BW.
Then, they learned Caden Hudak '26, a high school player from their hometown, was headed to BW, and the match was doubly special.
"My senior year of high school, I started to notice Matthew getting super excited and loved to watch me play [basketball]," Hudak recalls. "I met him, and instantly we had a connection. We would do our signature chest bumps during games to each other. I still remember to this day me at the free throw line about to shoot some important free throws, and I look over at the door, and there Matthew is getting excited bumping his chest cheering for me."
Fast forward to Hudak's commitment to play at BW, where he and young Matthew Droes were able to continue their chest bumps and special bond.
"I have no doubt that God put me in this position to make an impact on such a good family and kids' hearts and souls," says Hudak.
Hudak, who has become like a big brother to Matthew, is now one of five college students in the nation recognized as a 2025 "Teammate of the Year" finalist.
Matthew is leading the charge to win online votes for his buddy through April 25. "He's the best teammate ever," he exclaims in a video encouraging votes for Hudak. "He loves me so much. He will always be in my family."
"Coach Tom Heil and all of the players have made Matthew feel special, but Caden gave him the confidence to talk to and develop relationships with the other players," Matthew's parents, David and Katie Droes, say. "Matthew feels special and cared for by the whole program, and we have Caden to thank for getting that ball rolling. Going to Baldwin Wallace for practice or games is one of Matthew's favorite things to do, and he truly considers it his home."
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Although Hudak, a finance and business administration double major, made the decision to step away from playing for the Yellow Jackets after some injuries, he's still committed to attending BW games with Matthew in the coming year.
"Moving forward, I see myself and Matthew's relationship growing more and more and me always being a part of his life," Hudak says. "My BW experience has been nothing but a blessing, and I can't explain how thankful and blessed I am to be here today."
You can vote for Hudak as the 2025 "Teammate of the Year" as many times as you want until April 25. Hear why Matthew thinks his buddy should win in the video below.
Although, it's easy to make the case that they are both already winners!
