LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Louisville City made a major acquisition for its lineup ahead of this weekend’s matchup with Sacramento Republic FC, signing Ethan Wright to a one-game contract in partnership with North Children’s.

Wright is a 15-year-old midfielder who hasn’t let his Type 1 diabetes diagnosis hinder him from playing high school and club soccer. The longtime Louisville City fan met the squad for training this week and will be available for selection Saturday at 8 p.m. when the boys in purple kick off at Lynn Family Stadium.

Wright will be recognized at halftime as the Norton Children’s Superhero of the Game, which recognizes those living life to the fullest despite obstacles in their way.

“We are excited to welcome Ethan to the club,” said Louisville City’s head coach, Danny Cruz. “This is a young man who has the courage that we look for in all of our players, and he embodies the culture that we have here. We are grateful that he has chosen to sign with us, and I am looking forward to seeing him out at training with our group this week!”

Wright was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes in 2023 and receives care from the Wendy Novak Diabetes Institute, a part of Norton Children’s Endocrinology. He is a 10th grader at J. Graham Brown School who also participates in a specialized sport and activity program through Norton Children’s that has helped with his strength, weight and motor proficiencies since his diagnosis. His care team shares he’s done a remarkable job managing his condition and maintaining steady blood glucose levels, which is often a challenge for newly diagnosed patients.

“This honor is not just about being a fan; it’s a recognition of my journey as a young athlete who manages Type 1 diabetes with the help of the Wendy Novak Diabetes Institute,” Wright shared. “The team’s guidance has been so helpful in my ability to balance my passion for sports while managing Type 1. I hope to be a role model to others who fight similar battles, proving that with the right support and determination, we can achieve our dreams and inspire others to do the same.”

This is the third year Norton Children’s has partnered with Louisville City to connect patients with the club. “Super Drew” Esposito inspired the squad in a victory over Charleston Battery in 2022 following his bout with a brain tumor. Titas Verhey joined the team in 2023 amid his battle with a rare form of cancer.