Sun Apr 27 01:30:00 UTC 2025: ## Local Teen Overcomes Cerebral Palsy to Play Soccer on National Team, Inspires Charlotte FC Scarf Design

**CHARLOTTE, NC** – Sixteen-year-old Ryan Wlodyka, a member of the US Cerebral Palsy Soccer National Team, is proving that perseverance can overcome significant challenges. Born prematurely at 28 weeks with cerebral palsy due to an in-utero brain bleed, Ryan spent 44 days in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at Atrium Health Levine Children’s Hospital. Despite the lifelong physical limitations of his condition, including muscle spasticity, Ryan’s passion for soccer ignited at age five, even while wearing leg casts.

Now, Ryan will represent the US at the 2025 International Federation of CP Football (IFCPF) Club World Cup this summer. To celebrate his inspiring journey, Charlotte FC and Atrium Health have partnered to create a limited-edition scarf featuring Ryan’s personal mantra, “Be 1% better at something every day.” The scarf, handwritten by Ryan and others who supported him, including his siblings (all now nurses, two at Levine Children’s), will be given to fans at the Charlotte FC vs. New England Revolution match on April 26, 2025.

Ryan’s story highlights the exceptional care provided at Atrium Health Levine Children’s Hospital, consistently ranked among the nation’s best children’s hospitals. His determination serves as a powerful message of hope and inspiration, urging others to strive for continuous improvement in all aspects of their lives.

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