LOUISVILLE, Ky. — The University of Louisville baseball team is set to face Oregon State on Tuesday afternoon as it continues its journey toward a national championship.
What You Should Know:
- The Louisville Cardinals have a special supporter with them in Omaha — 6-year-old Knox Shepherd, a cancer survivor and the team’s biggest fan.
- Thanks to the nonprofit Team Impact, Knox and his mother are in Omaha to cheer on the Cardinals in person.
- Head coach Dan McDonnell and his wife Julie have long supported cancer patients and research. In 2009, Julie launched the Home Runs for Hope game, which raises money for Gilda’s Club of Kentuckiana.
Though not everyone knows it, the team has a special source of inspiration: Knox, a young fan who brings heart and hope wherever he goes.
Knox and his brother Sterling are devoted followers of the Cards and love watching games at Jim Patterson Stadium.
“We just watch and eat a bunch of snacks. That’s pretty much it,” Knox said.
But Knox is more than just a fan — he’s become a symbol of strength for the team, having bravely battled a rare brain tumor.
“I usually tell them ‘good job’ after the game, but I don’t get to do that right now because they’re so close to the super regionals,” Knox explained.
Sterling added, “My favorite part is running the bases, getting treats and candy, popcorn — gulping it all down — then running the bases again!”
Knox was diagnosed in November 2021 with a rare brain tumor that had a 70% chance of returning. His father, Erikk, described the experience as overwhelming and uncertain. Fortunately, Knox was treated at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, where he underwent 30 radiation treatments and two rounds of chemotherapy. Over a year later, Knox overcame cancer.
Cancer awareness is deeply personal for the McDonnell family. Julie McDonnell lost both of her parents to the disease, which inspired her to create Home Runs for Hope — a fundraising event that benefits local cancer support efforts.
In February 2024, Knox officially became an honorary member of the Cardinals, through Team Impact — an organization that connects children with serious illnesses or disabilities to college athletic teams for support and encouragement.
“Being part of the team helps keep him motivated, confident, and gives him something to look forward to besides doctor visits,” said his mother, Ashley.
Team Impact works with children facing more than 250 medical conditions, aiming to foster a sense of community and empowerment through their partnerships.
“The goal is to build belonging and confidence as these kids support their teams in unique and meaningful ways,” said Erin Higgins from Team Impact.
Now, thanks to Team Impact, Knox and his mom are in Omaha, proudly supporting their Cardinals on their championship quest.
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