Tartans Welcome Michael McCracken with Team IMPACT

(PITTSBURGH, Pa.) - On Monday, October 20, 18-year-old Michael McCracken from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania became an honorary member of the Carnegie Mellon University men's soccer team.

"Our soccer team is very excited to build relationships with Michael and his family," said head men's soccer coach Brandon Bowman.  "After our 'Welcome to the Team' party last night, it became obvious that Michael and our players will connect on many common interests."

"In just a short time, plans were already being made to attend our games and practices, watch super hero movies, eat some sushi, and maybe even attend a Pink Floyd laser show at the Carnegie Science Center," Bowman continued.

In 1998, Michael was diagnosed with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD), a muscle depletion illness where over time muscles will slowly shut down. Since losing the ability to walk at eight years old, Michael has been using a power wheel chair to get around.

After his illness began to affect his lungs and arms three years ago, Michael now has full-time assistance and a mouth piece ventilator which he uses at will when he needs to take a breath.

He completes physical, speech, and occupational therapies weekly and works hard to stay as healthy as possible. He truly epitomizes what it means to be a fighter and will be a great inspiration to all of his new teammates.

Michael loves all kinds of music, but Tom Petty and Pink Floyd are two of his all time favorites. He is a huge superhero movie buff, his favorite color is blue and he loves taking trips. Michael has traveled across the country, through Texas, Arizona, and California, and loves to learn about countries and cultures around the world using Google Earth. So far, he is an encyclopedia of capitals, fruits, and vegetables.

Michael also has a lot of animals including his German Shepherd (Brutus), his cat (Wedge), lots of fish, and an African Dwarf Frog that he got from his third grade class.

"I can't wait to see how these relationships shape both Michael and our players," said Bowman.  "I am extremely proud that our players have taken the initiative to be a part of Team IMPACT, and am thankful that Michael and his family are allowing us to be a part of their lives."