Tristian's Dream

Meet Tristian

Meet Tristian, an 11-year-old with a heart full of warmth, along with a passion for music and basketball. He’s a self-proclaimed rapper, enjoys dancing, and has a deep love for Duke University!

Tristian lives with Down syndrome, but his condition doesn’t define his story. This confident young man enjoys trying new things and believes in sharing his life motto of “never give up” with others. Tristian’s infectious sense of humor and bright smile never fails to light up the world around him.

Tristian’s love for the Blue Devils was inspired by his father’s connection to Duke University Hospital. The mere mention of the college’s name sparks excitement in Tristian, making it a special part of his life. This dreamer has been selected by Duke’s Collegiate Dream Team to receive a VIP Duke basketball experience! Tristian’s sports dream is to attend a Duke basketball practice and game at Cameron Indoor Stadium!

Tristian's Dream

It was a DREAM of a weekend for Tristian and our Duke University Collegiate Dream Team!

The weekend started Sunday morning by surprising Tristian at his house with a large stretch limo and his entire CDT on site to pick him. Tristian was gifted a special pair of Duke-themed Jordans, which he loved! Then the team made their way to campus to meet up with some of the football team for a behind-the-scenes tour of Duke athletic facilities. Here, Tristian was able to throw a football and have a full 100-yard dash race with the team! Tristan then got to watch the Duke Women’s Basketball team win in overtime against Chapel Hill. After the thrilling game, Tristian and the CDT headed for ice cream before heading to the hotel to swim and rest up for the big day.

The next morning Tristian headed to campus to eat breakfast with the Duke CDT captains in one of the Duke dining halls. Tristian loved seeing where the students eat and hang out. After breakfast, Tristian headed to go bowling with the CDT captains before his shoot around with the Duke Men’s Basketball team! Tristian was smiling ear to ear when they entered Cameron Indoor Stadium. While watching practice, his favorite player, Tyrese Procter, came over to say hi and meet his biggest fan… Tristian!

Towards the end of practice, Coach Scheyer’s wife, Marcelle, made it a point to come meet Tristian. They spent time talking about the team and all things Duke. Coach Scheyer also came over and joined in the convo with Tristian! The CDT took pictures on the court and Coach made sure Tristian was ready to cheer loudly at the big game. After shooting around, it was time for lunch at Tristian’s favorite spot…Chick Fil A!

At game time, Tristan and the CDT made their way to their VIP floor seats. During the game, Tristian was introduced to the crowd in center court! Cameron Indoor erupted with cheers all for sweet Tristian. It was amazing to watch Duke get a big win and celebrate outside with Tristian and the CDT team. It was truly a weekend of Dreams coming true for Duke’s biggest fan!

Dream Snapshots
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