News and Community Events
International Concussion Summit
Though our aim was 37 attendees to the 10th Annual International Concussion Summit pioneered by Warren and Blaine Hoshizaki, One Last Goal welcomed around 25 individuals who had the privilege of engaging with some of the finest researchers, concussion specialists, and athletes globally. Like us, most of the attendees departed in awe, eager to apply their newfound knowledge in aiding the young athletes who they care for or about.
There were so many highlights. Some that we will remember for a long time are:
Chris Pronger, who is a storied Hart Trophy and NHL Hall of Famer, shared with us his life as a professional hockey player. He recounted some of his harrowing experiences, particularly his career-ending eye injury and the prolonged concussion symptoms he endured. His narrative shed light on the physical and mental toll professional athletes endure. Chris's resilience commanded respect. It also evoked a sense of melancholy. The realization that our beloved athletes, driven by passion and love of their sport, should not be reduced to mere gladiators, resonated deeply.
Legendary goalie and author Ken Dryden took the stage with fervor, praising the advancements in concussion awareness within youth hockey circles. However, he didn't shy away from calling out specific leaders in the NHL who have neglected their responsibility in addressing this issue. With a pointed remark, Ken emphasized, "At first, we did not know, but now we do." Mentioning Mr. Gary Bettman directly, he underscored the gravity of the situation, lamenting the repercussions of inaction on the well-being of our beloved players. Ken Dryden's impassioned plea resonated deeply, earning him a well-deserved standing ovation.
Dr. Robert Cantu and Dr. Ann McKee, both trailblazers and highly respected in the field of brain injury research, discussed how inflammation, rather than CTE itself, might be the root cause of symptoms in the brains of young athletes in the early stages of CTE.
Dr. Janie Cournoyer, an esteemed athletic therapist, shared cutting-edge research and protocols, enriching our understanding profoundly.
Dr. Chris Nowinski, an exceptional neuroscientist who is a visionary and leading the fight against head injuries, ended his talk and left many of us in tears and silence. The bottom line is, “STOP HITTING KIDS IN THE HEAD”.
Thank you to the School Board of Niagara Falls for being so kind to us and giving One Last Goal an opportunity to be a part of this incredible conference. Our heartfelt gratitude extends to Michael St. John, along with Jennifer McGugan, for collaborating with us. Thank you to all who generously and selflessly donated to One Last Goal. Without you, this would never have been possible. Thank you to the brilliant speakers, for your endless dedication to your profession. Thanks also to our One Last Goal attendees, who sacrificed time in their very busy lives to attend. Some did it to learn more, others did it to honor Matthew. Whatever the reason, most of us came out with a better appreciation of how crucial it is to support athletes not only with their physical health but their mental health as well.
Introducing the #37 Journey
Description: The "#37 Journey," an initiative dedicated to Matthew, who started his journey in contact sports at the age of 4, participating in three helmet sports year-round for over 10 years. Throughout his college years, he proudly wore the #37 jersey, yet encountered adversity when he experienced two concussions in a single football game during his junior year. Regrettably, he never fully recovered from that fateful game. Join us at the 10th Annual International International Concussion Summit on May 2nd and 3rd, 2024, in Niagara Falls, Ontario as we advance our mission and we send 37 special participants on this journey to explore the most recent research in neuroscience and the latest advancements in treatment and prevention for athletes dealing with concussions or repetitive head impacts.
Why Attend? Whether you're a doctor, trainer, student, psychologist, coach, parent, or athlete, please consider the opportunity to dig into the forefront of concussion research at the 10th Annual International Concussion Summit. Engage with world-renowned researchers and speakers and enrich your understanding of this critical field to help your athletes or yourself. Spend a day and a half networking with peers against the breathtaking backdrop of Niagara Falls, Ontario.
Limited Admissions: Don't miss this chance as registrations are filling up. We still have a limited number of complimentary admissions to this event. To secure your spot, reach out to us at matthewbenedictsonelastgoal@gmail.com or call/text us at 716-992-9533.
Act Now - Register Early: Given the conference's sell-out history, ensure your participation by registering early. Make your mark in the journey towards comprehensive concussion solutions.
The heartbreaking experience of losing our son Matthew to suicide has driven us to join a campaign calling on the CDC to educate parents and others about the dangers associated with repetitive head impacts (RHI) in children.
We are reaching out to request your support by signing our letter, which outlines the critical need for increased awareness and proactive measures to address the risks associated with RHI in young athletes. Your signature can make a significant impact, and you can add your support by clicking on the following link: Support Letter
Our campaign is fueled by recent studies that underscore the severity of the issue:
1. A study examining alterations in cerebral blood flow in 14-year-old athletes revealed that changes resulting from RHI could potentially contribute to long-term adverse outcomes in contact athletes. The study also highlighted declines in verbal memory and visual motor speed in contact sport athletes, emphasizing the cognitive impact of RHI.
2. Another study , employing the "Bradford Hill criteria," established a direct link between RHI and chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), particularly among children. Athletes in contact sports were found to face a 68-fold greater risk of developing CTE, emphasizing the urgency of preventive measures and a shift from "association" to "causation" in discussions.
3. A study indicated that pediatric concussion patients face an increased risk of developing mental health problems, engaging in self-harm, and requiring psychiatric hospitalization compared to those with orthopedic injuries.
4. From the BU Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) Center, a study revealed that among 152 young athletes exposed to RHI and under the age of 30 at the time of their death, 41.4% showed neuropathological evidence of CTE.
Your time and consideration in this crucial matter are greatly appreciated.
We sincerely hope you can support our campaign by adding your signature to this Support Letter.
With heartfelt gratitude,
Bill and Anne Benedict
One Last Goal sponsored a college neuroscience student and helped secure placement for a biology student. We are planting the seed for the future.
Student ‘24: Pre-med, Neuroscience major
“This summer I have been able to work under Dr. McKee at the BU CTE center and participate in this investigation in my own, small way. My work involves looking through confirmed CTE cases and tracking the development of characteristic symptoms (brown/red perivascular tau tangles) through the layers of the entorhinal cortex and within the amygdala. Part of this work is to add nuance to the current understanding of CTE’s progression but also to answer questions about the mechanism behind the emergence of these neuropathological properties. The distinction between a physical explanation (trauma) and intracellular communication between neurons is important in actually understanding why CTE progresses the way it does.”
“I learned so much about pathological techniques, the science behind CTE, and where the research is currently. I liked the work so much that I asked to come back after I graduate to work as an RA. So, this is likely not nearly the last time I work in a CTE lab, rather, it is the foundation for what I hope is a long career working in the science of head trauma.”
Supervisor, Dr. Ann McKee said he was outstanding, performed at an exemplary level, was a real asset, and they hope he will join them next year as a Research Assistant when he graduates.
Student ’24, Biology major with minors in Mathematics and Global Health
“I spent every day at the lab bench doing hands-on research for this ground-breaking lab. It was incredible to be learning things about CTE alongside everyone else in the lab, as these discoveries were being made in real-time.”
“I mainly worked on a project focused on exploring the genetics of individuals with confirmed cases of CTE who died before the age of 30 to see if they have similar trends in their APOE ε4 genotype, which is a gene that indicates an increased risk for Alzheimer's disease. This internship drew from my pre-existing coursework at Middlebury and taught me much more about neurodegenerative disease and genetics than any other course. I loved this work, not only did I learn so much, but the work felt important and groundbreaking. It has made me far more passionate about research and solidified my career choices for after I graduate from Middlebury.”
Dr. Ann McKee said this student was exceptional, that she completed some very important assays for the research, and they’d love to have her back.
Furthermore, Dr. McKee said about both interns, “Superlative experience, far exceeded my expectations.”
Summer 2023—Internships Boston University CTE Center
We offered an invaluable opportunity to two college student interns, with One Last Goal generously funding one of these positions. These interns had the privilege of working alongside Dr. Ann McKee in her research laboratory at the Boston University Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) Center. Our belief is rooted in the understanding that numerous mental health challenges faced by young athletes can be attributed to repetitive head trauma and concussions. Recognizing the urgency of this issue, Dr. McKee and her dedicated team are tirelessly investigating avenues to support these athletes.
We took great pride in contributing to this vital research by augmenting the lab's workforce and facilitating the acquisition of research methodologies for these aspiring young talents. This opportunity not only enhanced our role in the pursuit of solutions but also empowered these interns to actively contribute towards finding a remedy for the challenges posed by CTE.
December 9, 2022
Nichols Ice Rink
5:00pm
The charity hockey game raised over $25,000. Our sincere thank you for all of those who supported us.
As always - thank you for your continued support.
Thank you to the St. Joseph’s Collegiate Institute “No Shave November” participants who raised $810 for One Last Goal. We are so thankful that these young men chose One Last Goal as the recipient of their donations. Their kindness and generosity will not be forgotten.
One Last Goal on Spotify
A special thank you to host Tommy Enstice and interviewees Jake Zimmer and Charlie Stein for taking the time to create this beautiful podcast. Thank you, also, to Nichols School for giving these young men the opportunity to spread their message through this podcast. They have done an excellent job discussing the importance of community in one’s life and why One Last Goal is important to them. We could not do this without our Board Members and Nichols School who have supported us since day one. We will be forever indebted to those who have supported us financially and in so many other ways—-that is what community is all about. Click the above picture to listen to the Spotify Podcast.
We are grateful to the St. Joseph Collegiate Institute Community for their t-shirt fundraiser with a “Tomorrow Needs You” mental health awareness campaign. Their kindness, generosity, and support are helping us spread the word. Thank you friends at St. Joe’s-we are so appreciative of you.
“Start the Conversation Now, Life is Precious.”-MB
Fall 2022 Update From the Summer
The college summer intern we sponsored had a life-changing experience touring the Brain Bank while interning for the Concussion Legacy Foundation. One Last Goal continues to work hard toward helping others understand the correlation between concussions + repeated subconcussive hits and mental health.
Summer 2022
We partnered with Middlebury College and the Concussion Legacy Foundation to fund a summer internship for a Middlebury College student. This student will intern at the Concussion Legacy Foundation and help in its mission to support athletes, Veterans, and all affected by concussions and CTE and also to achieve smarter sports and safer athletes through education and innovation; and to End CTE through prevention and research
Summer Internship Update
Matthew Benedict’s One Last Goal provided 2021 summer internship funding for a Nichols School Alumna, who is also a Middlebury College Pre-Med student, majoring in Molecular Biology & Biochemistry with a minor in Global Health. Additionally, she is a member of the Women’s Field Hockey and Ice Hockey Teams, and a Representative on the Student Athletic Advisory Committee. She interned as a student research assistant at the University at Buffalo Neurosurgery Department (UBNS), and reported having a transformative experience. Part of her thank you letter can be found below.
Although my technical skills improved over the summer and will be elevated for this next school year, my interpersonal skills were challenged and increased significantly. The most pivotal tool that I have developed is the ability to advocate for myself in a professional setting. As an undergrad student, there were few expectations placed on me in terms of knowledge or experience, but I soon learned that in order to be involved with the powerful work at UBNS, I needed to demonstrate my thorough engagement and excitement in the material.
Prior to cases, I would contact the Attendings, asking for material to read beforehand, and in the event that questions were asked, I could demonstrate some learning. With this, I was able to develop strong relationships with the surgeons, who soon invited me into other Operating Rooms for additional specialties. These opportunities were powerful, as I was able to demonstrate my intentions, work ethic, and most importantly, my passion for their craft. The next, and if not, most important lesson I learned this summer, was the value of true kindness, as each individual holds a special role at the hospital. I have truly cherished the past few months at UBNS, and I can not thank you enough for providing me with the resources to enjoy this experience; your generosity is greatly appreciated.
This student was unaware that Matthew Benedict’s One Last Goal funded her experience until after she wrote this note. When she learned this, she was stunned and said that Matthew, a fellow Buffalo native, was her alumni interviewer for Middlebury and was the one who convinced her to attend Middlebury. Along with this student not having a clue where her funding came until after the fact, we had no idea that Matthew was her alumni interviewer.
Matthew continues to live in so many of us.
Spring 2022: We worked with Erie Community College to fund Project Connect at all three campuses. This is a social belongingness project that focuses on building connections and community between students. Matthew spoke often about the importance of connection to others and the value that vulnerability and connection can have on improving mental health and overall well-being. One of Matthew’s most powerful quotes urges us to connect with others deeply: “Start the Conversation Now…Life is Precious.”
Friday, December 10, 2021
5:00 PM 8:30 PM
Nichols School (map)
One Last Goal is excited to bring back the second annual Charity Hockey Game at Nichols School on December 10th, 2021. The charity game will take place at 5pm, followed by a short on-ice ceremony, and capped off by the Nichols Prep Game vs Gilmour Academy at 6:30pm. Attendees will have the option to make an optional donation at the door and participate in the ever-popular “Chuck a Puck” contest.
If you would like to participate as a skater in the Charity Game, please fill out this form! We look forward to seeing everyone at Nichols!
October 4, 2021 was a big day for us. Although the pandemic altered our plans, we were finally able to have our guest speaker, Ross Szabo, talk in person.
Ross came to town and addressed five different audiences, reaching close to, if not more than, 1500 people in his quest for helping all of us understand our mental health a little better. Some of the audiences were in person, and others were hybrid, but each talk he gave was geared toward the specific audience he spoke to.
The reactions after Ross’s talks were extremely positive. Some comments included: “much needed”, “tremendous speaker with a clear message”, “can he come back next year?”, “Amazing presentation…Such a good and needed conversation”. “His presentation was fantastic and impactful, and everyone who attended was thankful to hear him speak.”, and last but not least, “life changing”.
Ross began his day with the Nichols School students and then a presentation for the Nichols parents, in which One Last Goal board member, and Matthew’s friend and former classmate/teammate Jake Zimmer gave a beautiful introduction to both audiences. Then Ross traveled to the Bar Association of Erie County and spoke to the legal community and some UB law students. There, Hugh Russ, the president of the Erie County Bar Association, was exceptionally thoughtful and well-spoken in which he helped the audience understand a little more about One Last Goal and Ross. Next, Ross traveled to the Southtowns to address the Hamburg Central School district teachers and staff, along with other surrounding district teachers and staff members. Finally, Ross traveled to the Northtowns and spoke to almost ALL of the UB student-athletes (except 43 who were in class), coaches, and athletic staff.
Throughout the day, there were dozens of people who came up to Ross after his talk, thanking him for his openness and honesty, his willingness to tell his story, and his brilliance in helping so many understand mental health. Some audience members went up to shake his hand to just say “thank you”. It was obvious that many were deeply moved by his presentation.
We would like to give a special shout out to Danielle Vallas, for taking many hours out of her already busy schedule to introduce Ross and support us. She did an incredible job introducing Ross at Nichols School, at Hamburg High School, and at the University at Buffalo. Danielle is not only the most wonderful mental health counselor we know, but she is truly making a difference for our Western New York Community through her company D&G Wellness Consulting.
We would also like to thank all of our supporters of Matthew Benedict’s One Last Goal. Without the generosity from so many, we would not have been able to bring Ross to town.
Finally, we would like to thank Ross. He is the most honest, passionate, intelligent, and humble person we know. We are truly thankful that he chose Buffalo to share his story and help us better understand ours.
April 25th, 2021
One Last Goal has provided funding for Ross Szabo to speak in a virtual setting to the Middlebury College student-athletes. Ross will be sharing his story and will be talking about the importance of taking care of one’s mental health and speaking up when struggling.
“H3H to Campus”
Spring 2021
We partnered with the University at Buffalo to “Bring H3H to Campus”. This initiative educated up to 600 student-athletes and was created through a partnership with the NCAA Sports Science Institute and Prevention Strategies. This project will help save lives, eliminate stigma and scale mental wellness programs for student-athletes by providing tools and bring parity to mental health in line with all other illnesses and injuries these student-athletes face.
Fall 2021
We worked with Middlebury College to “Bring H3H to Campus”.
Our sincerest thank you to all who participated in the #12 Challenge. You have made our hearts smile. On March 3rd, we brought Ross Szabo back to our community in partnership with The Maria Love Fund.
#12 Challenge
February 1st - 12th, 2021
The Nichols and the Buffalo community, and Matt’s friends and loved ones throughout the country, raised awareness and money for
One Last Goal through the virtual #12 challenge!
In lieu of a live fundraiser similar to the Charity Hockey Game in 2019, One Last Goal and Nichols School hosted a virtual event this year, the #12 Challenge.
As a nod to Matt’s jersey number for Nichols Hockey, we are encouraging participants to document themselves performing 12 of anything physical - 12 push-ups, 12 sit-ups, 12k run, EVERYTHING COUNTS. Once you’re done, post it to social media using the hashtag #12challenge!
Forever Friends
Matt’s dear friends Charlie Stein, Jake Zimmer, and Joe Avino, along with our friends at Nichols School, organized this #12 Challenge for One Last Goal. It will run from February 1st-12th, 2021. We are so very appreciative of them, along with all of those who remember our beloved Matthew.
Ross Szabo Talks Adolescent Mental Health With Nichols Community and Friends
12/03/2020
On Wednesday, December 2, the Nichols School community was fortunate to welcome award-winning speaker Ross Szabo for a series of presentations for Nichols students and families, along with invited friends and guests. Szabo is the Wellness Director at the Geffen Institute at UCLA, CEO of the Human Power Project and author of “Behind Happy Faces: Taking Charge of Your Mental Health – A Guide for Young Adults.”
This event was made possible by the One Last Goal Foundation, created by the Benedict family to honor the late Matthew Benedict ’11 and promote mental health discussion and awareness.
Szabo’s presentations focused on what it means to find balanced mental health, why it’s important to have open conversations about mental health and seek help when needed, how to effectively talk to others about mental health and how to cope with stress and anxiety. Szabo shared personal experiences that affected his mental health and how he learned to grow from those experiences.
Fall 2020
One Last Goal has partnered with Middlebury College in a three-year commitment to ProjectConnect..
The Matthew W. Benedict ’15 Fund for Health & Wellness Education has been established through a recurring grant recommendation from the One Last Goal Foundation. The Fund supports the establishment of ProjectConnect and, specifically, the training of Mental Health Peer Educators at Middlebury College.
The goals of ProjectConnect are to:
Build community among students to combat feelings of isolation and loneliness.
Help students develop friendships across identities and social groups, and practice exploring vulnerable topics with peers in a safe setting.
Start the Conversation Now…Life is Precious.
October 7, 2020
Matthew Benedict’s One Last Goal is a Proud Supporting Sponsor of the Concussion Legacy Foundation’s Virtual Gala on October 7, 2020. The theme this year is that now more than ever, It's Time for Mental Health. Concussions and CTE can affect mental health, and during a pandemic, mental health symptoms can become overwhelming. The new CLF HelpLine is providing urgently needed one-on-one support, resources, peer-to-peer mentors, and medical referrals to patients and families in need during these difficult times.
Featuring a conversation with Malcolm Gladwell
Headlining this can't miss event will be world-renowned author and speaker Malcolm Gladwell! Gladwell has covered concussion and CTE with his trademark insight for over a decade. Revisit his 2009 New Yorker article "Offensive Play" and the 2018 episode of his Revisionist History Podcast "Burden of Proof".
One Last Goal Attends the CLF Family Huddle
The fourth Family Advisory Board Huddle was held in Orlando, Florida from February 28 – March 1. Family members came from across the country for three days of incredible programming by Concussion Legacy Foundation staff and presentations by Dr. Ann McKee, Chief of Neuropathology, VA Boston Healthcare System and Director of the VA-BU-CLF Brain Bank, Dr. Robert Stern, Director of Clinical Research at the Boston University CTE Center, Dr. Thor Stein, Associate Director of the Neuropathology Core of the Boston University Alzheimer Disease Center, Dr. Jesse Mez, Director of the Clinical Core at the Boston University Alzheimer’s Disease Center, and Michael Alosco, Ph.D., Co-Director of the Clinical Core at the Boston University Alzheimer’s Disease Center. Programs were designed to provide family members a more in-depth understanding of how their loved one’s donation has advanced research, education, and prevention efforts. The goal of every Huddle is to ensure families gain a stronger fellowship with other FAB members, the BU research teams, and CLF staff, and to learn about our efforts to create a world without CTE and concussion safety without compromise.
A group of Matthew Benedict ‘11’s former classmates and teammates organized an amazing charity hockey game to support the foundation named in Matt’s honor, Matthew Benedict’s One Last Goal. A very Special thank you to Charlie Stein, Jake Zimmer, Joe Avino, Nichols School, the hockey players, all Matthew’s friends who volunteered their time to work the event, and those who came out to support us. We felt the love….
December 13, 2019
One Last Goal in the Community
On December 9, 2019, Bill Benedict, Matt’s father, spoke at the Nichols Upper School morning meeting and shared the One Last Goal message of hope and awareness surrounding mental health and wellness.
Concussions and contact sports: what these parents learned from their son’s death
December 4, 2019
“Benedict is not the first athlete who played contact sports who took his own life. He is also not the first 20-something to struggle with mental health problems. But his story illustrates the challenges parents face as they decide whether to let their sons and daughters play contact sports, as well as deciphering conflicting messages from scientists and sports leagues about head trauma.”
- Nancy Armour, USA Today
Celebrating Matt…and The Bills and Middlebury College Football
November 3, 2019
On what seemed to be the coldest and windiest weekend of the season, we had a good ‘ole fashioned Buffalo Sports Weekend with some of Matthew’s friends. It was their first time experiencing a Bills tailgate and game, a Sabres game, the Anchor Bar, and Chefs. They went back home forever changed.
October 12, 2019
Some of Matthew’s teammates and their parents joined us for a Middlebury College football game to help promote the importance of mental health awareness. We gave out t-shirts and sold One Last Goal wristbands, which were very popular with the students. These young men amazed us with their care for others and each other, their kindness, their maturity, and their willingness to help. We feel honored to know them. Middlebury won the game in miraculous fashion—the opposing team kicked a field goal to try to win the game, but it hit the upright and bounced back. Midd went on to have a perfect season. Thanks Matt…
“Benedict Built” was coined and could be found on the inside of the OLG bracelets.
A Father’s Anguish Leads to a New Foundation
September 19, 2019
The family wants to do something to prevent other families from going through the same anguish by setting up a private endowment - Matthew Benedict’s One Last Goal - with funds managed by the Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo. The mission is to help educate students and athletes about mental health and depression, while creating awareness about coping mechanisms and treatment options.
The suicide of a law student and former college football player has led his family to start “Matthew Benedict’s One Last Goal”
August 16, 2019
Matthew’s battle with depression began after he sustained… concussions on the football field… The day after Matthew graduated college in 2015 he started a blog entitled ‘Start the Conversation Now: Life is Precious.’ It is remarkable, and should be required reading for everyone… Twenty-two year old Matthew Benedict started a conversation that so many would not and do not have the bravery to start.”
- Michael Kasdan, The Good Men Project
August 15, 2019
On Matthew’s 27th birthday, we left the our small town for the big city of New York where we met lots of Matt’s dear college friends and teammates to celebrate his life. We were truly humbled and comforted by all who showed up. Not only did his friends organize this birthday party, they turned it into a very successful fundraiser for One Last Goal! Matthew always loved his birthday, so we know he would have approved of this one. He was blessed to have such genuine friends—we never realized how great his friends were until recently. In this picture, Kaitlin was about one month away from delivering our first grandchild.
UB Law Sports and Entertainment Forum
Professor Nellie Drew, Director – UB Center for the Advancement of Sport
July 15, 2019
Last week, the UB Sports Law community was devastated by the loss of one of its most vibrant, enthusiastic members. Matt Benedict, a second year law student, died suddenly on July 1st.
Buffalo law student dies from suicide, family establishes mental health fund
July 3, 2019
“Matthew had been struggling with depression and anxiety for about five years… he was diagnosed with post-concussion syndrome and his depression was the result of concussions and previous head injuries… ‘He wanted to do good for the world, he wanted to serve people in some way and he thought this is the way he could do that with the talent he was given,’ his mother said about his career path.”
- Christine Simmons, New York Law Journal