LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WAVE) – A 15-year-old high school student battling diabetes is getting the chance to join a professional soccer team.

Louisville City FC continues to work hard in preparation for this weekend’s upcoming game, but a new face has joined the team with the opportunity of a lifetime.

“We can make him smile and he can do the same for us,” said Lou City manager Denny Cruz.

“It has always been my dream to one day be on a professional football team,” said Ethan Wright.

This lifelong dream became a reality when Wright signed a one-game contract with Lou City through Norton Children’s Hospital.

“I was able to meet the team this morning, sign my contract and get a jersey,” Wright said. “I’ve been following Lou City since they were founded as a team in 2014.”

Wright was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in 2023.

“I was in the emergency room for a week and have been doing pretty well since then,” he said.

This diagnosis did not stop him from playing the game he loves.

“When I got the diagnosis, I asked myself, ‘Can I keep going? What can I do to keep running and playing football?'” Wright said. “I didn’t want to give up.”

Wright now brings that winning mentality to the field as part of Lou City’s club, trying to inspire the players he has looked up to throughout his life.

“Ethan stood up and we all agreed that was the best speech we’ve ever given,” Cruz said. “We talk a lot about our group, about our ability to inspire, but also about others inspiring us.”

At halftime on Saturday, Wright will be honored as Norton Children’s Superhero of the Game.

“I want to see myself as a hero to other kids who are newly diagnosed and other people with disabilities or type 1 diabetes,” Wright said. “I can still run, play soccer and do the things I love.”

Ethan and Lou City will showcase their talents on the field Saturday night at Lynn Family Stadium when they host Sacramento Republic FC in a late 9 p.m. kickoff.

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