SoccerWire is publishing Q&A articles with players who have Featured Profiles in the SoccerWire Recruiting Directory. The series allows players to share their stories on the college recruiting process, playing the game at the international level, travel and high school soccer, and their passion for the beautiful game.
In this edition we will showcase Riley Cunningham, who plays for FC Pride in the ECNL, and has signed to play NCAA Division I soccer for the University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) in 2026.
SoccerWire Featured Player since November 2023.
What made you decide to commit to UIC?
UIC felt like the right fit for me both athletically and academically. From my first conversations with the coaching staff, I could tell they believed in me not just as a player, but as a person. They were honest about the opportunity to come in and compete early, and I loved their vision for the program and the culture they are building. The communication with the coaching staff was steady and predictable, I really appreciated that. Being in Chicago is also exciting, and I know it will push me to grow and prepare me for my future. Overall, it felt like home and a place where I can reach my full potential.
What was the recruiting process like and what did you learn about yourself while going through it?
The recruiting process taught me a lot about patience, resilience, and confidence in myself. I missed my entire junior fall high school season due to an illness, and then our showcase in St. Louis was heavily impacted by weather, which limited opportunities for coaches to see me. Shortly after, I tore my ACL in Florida. There were honestly times when I thought college soccer might no longer be a reality for me.
During that time, I had to make a decision about how I was going to respond. I put my head down, worked every day in rehab, and focused on coming back stronger—both physically and mentally. The recovery process taught me discipline and helped me develop a deeper appreciation for the game.
As I got closer to returning, I used every resource available to me, especially social media and X, to research programs and identify schools that still had positional needs. I began reaching out to coaches and advocating for myself. Unfortunately, much of that outreach happened during their season, so communication was limited at first. But once the college season ended and coaches were able to get out and see me play again, things started to progress.
Through the entire process, I learned how important it is to believe in yourself even when things feel uncertain. There were times when things moved quickly and other times when I had to be patient and trust the process. It helped me realize how much I love competing and how motivated I am to play at the next level. In the end, it made me stronger and helped me find the right home.
How do you feel your strengths on the field will help the Flames?
One of my biggest strengths is my versatility. I can play multiple positions and will do whatever helps the team succeed. I also bring a competitive mindset and strong work rate—I take pride in winning my battles and contributing on both sides of the ball. I think my speed, ability to attack out of wide areas, and willingness to compete every day will help the Flames.
What are your favorite subjects in school and what do you think you would like to study in college?
My favorite subjects are science-based classes, especially anything related to anatomy or the human body. Going through physical therapy myself really sparked my interest in that field. I am interested in studying kinesiology with the goal of becoming a physical therapist in the future.
What has your experience been like playing in the ECNL for FC Pride/Indy Eleven?
Playing in the ECNL with FC Pride and Indy Eleven has been an incredible experience. It has pushed me to compete against some of the best players in the country and develop both technically and mentally. The environment is competitive, and it has helped prepare me for the college level. My coaches and teammates have challenged me every day and helped me grow into a more complete player and person.
What are your favorite pair of cleats that you have ever owned?
My favorite cleats I’ve owned were my Adidas F50 Sparkfusions. I love how light they are and how they allow me to play fast and be aggressive. They’ve always felt comfortable and helped me play with confidence. UIC is an Adidas university, so I will be able to wear these in college as well. Luckily, for me, they will be supplied by the university this time.
If you could give one piece of advice to a younger player that wants to play at a high level, what would it be?
My advice would be to focus on competing every day and not compare your journey to anyone else’s. There will be challenges and setbacks, but if you stay consistent, work hard, and believe in yourself, opportunities will come. Also, enjoy the process because it goes by fast.
Is there anyone that you would like to give a shoutout to who has helped you both on and off of the field?
I want to thank my family for always supporting me and believing in me, especially my parents for the sacrifices they’ve made to help me pursue my goals. I’m also incredibly grateful to my coaches at FC Pride and my teammates who have pushed me to improve every day and helped shape me into the player I am today. I want to give a special thank you to my high school coach, Rob Klatte. His belief in me and his relationship with the coaching staff at UIC helped open the door and created an opportunity that changed my future. They have all played a huge role in helping me get to this point, and I’m very thankful for their support.
