East Providence 3-Year-Old Battling Cancer Honored as Team Captain

Sometimes sports become bigger than the scoreboard, and that was certainly the case on January 17 in East Providence.

Three-year-old Maverick, who is currently battling a Stage 3 Wilms Tumor, was named honorary captain for the Espírito Santo futsal team during their game against St. Michael’s. From the moment he stepped onto the court, it was clear the night was about far more than competition.

Maverick was honored in front of the crowd by East Providence Mayor Bob DaSilva, who presented him with an official citation – a powerful and emotional moment for the young fighter and his family. The support didn’t stop there. Every player on the Espírito Santo team wore jerseys branded with the childhood cancer ribbon, proudly featuring Maverick’s slogan, “Magic for Maverick.”

A Team Playing for Something Bigger

The team’s connection to Maverick runs deep. He has become an inspiration to the school community, and thanks to funds raised during last season’s championship run, the team previously awarded Maverick a motorized vehicle. It was a gift that brought joy during an otherwise difficult journey.

A Mother’s Words That Say It All

Maverick’s mom, Shana Luciano, shared just how meaningful the moment was in a heartfelt post following the game.

“As the mom of a child with cancer, I’ve had to face really difficult moments where I have to fight the instinct to hold him through situations that I know deep down he can handle on his own,” Luciano wrote. “Today would have been one of those days, but instead it warmed my heart to see all the support he already had by his side.”

Magic for Maverick, Fueled by Community

She went on to thank Mayor DaSilva for attending and offering words of encouragement, as well as Coach Almeida, the Friends of Jack Foundation, and the entire Espírito Santo futsal team for making Maverick their honorary captain, and even letting him score the game’s first goal.

“For your dedication to making this moment truly Magic for Maverick,” she wrote, “Thank you.”

On a night filled with goals and cheers, Maverick’s courage and the community’s compassion stole the show – proving that sometimes the biggest wins happen far beyond the court.