Reilyn Turner Bio
Reilyn Sky Turner (born October 18, 2002) is an American professional soccer player who plays as a forward for Portland Thorns FC of the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL). She played college soccer for the UCLA Bruins, scoring the last-second equalizing goal in the 2022 national championship and earning the Pac-12 Forward of the Year award in 2023. Turner was drafted sixth overall by Racing Louisville FC in the 2024 NWSL Draft and then traded to the Thorns during her rookie season.
Early Life and Background
Reilyn Turner was born in Lakewood, California, to Nate Turner, a former National Football League (NFL) wide receiver, and Felicia Madrigal, a former soccer player at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV). She has an older sister named Blake, who played soccer at Columbia University. Turner grew up in Aliso Viejo, California, where she developed her passion for soccer from an early age. She graduated from Laguna Beach High School, where she likely honed her skills as a player.
Path to Soccer
Turner’s journey in soccer began during her high school years, where she showcased her talent and dedication to the sport. Her impressive performance in high school led her to play for the UCLA Bruins from 2020 to 2023. During her college career, she not only excelled on the field but also made headlines by becoming the first college athlete to sign a name, image, and likeness (NIL) deal with Nike. This opportunity marked a significant milestone in her career, highlighting her potential as a rising star in women’s soccer.
Reilyn Turner Career
Early Career (2020-2023)
During her time at UCLA, Reilyn Turner made a significant impact on the collegiate soccer scene. She scored a total of 42 goals and provided 16 assists, ranking fifth all-time at UCLA in goals and total points. In 2022, she played a crucial role in helping UCLA win its second national championship by scoring the game-tying goal in the championship match. Her outstanding performance earned her a spot on the All-Tournament Team and the title of Most Outstanding Offensive Player.
Breakthrough (2024)
Turner’s breakthrough moment came when she was selected as the sixth overall pick in the 2024 NWSL Draft by Racing Louisville FC. This selection underscored her status as one of the top forward prospects in the draft. On February 21, 2024, she signed her first professional contract with Racing Louisville. In her debut season, she made an immediate impact by scoring an equalizing goal in the 97th minute of a match against Seattle Reign.
Notable Works and Milestones
Reilyn Turner’s signature moment came when she scored her first goal for Portland Thorns FC in a CONCACAF W Champions Cup victory over Club América. She also played a vital role in the Thorns’ playoff run, scoring an equalizer in a crucial match against Gotham FC. These performances solidified her reputation as a promising young talent in the league.
Reilyn Turner Award Nominations
Throughout her career, Reilyn Turner has received recognition for her outstanding performances on the field, including being named the Pac-12 Forward of the Year in 2023. Her contributions to her teams have not gone unnoticed, and she continues to be a player to watch in the NWSL.
Reilyn Turner Awards Won
Reilyn Turner has achieved significant milestones in her young career, including winning the Most Outstanding Offensive Player award during the 2022 College Cup. Her accomplishments at UCLA and her early success in the NWSL highlight her potential for future accolades.
Reilyn Turner Family
Reilyn Turner comes from a supportive family background. Her father, Nate Turner, played in the NFL, while her mother, Felicia Madrigal, played soccer at the collegiate level. This athletic lineage has likely influenced her passion for sports and her dedication to soccer.
Personal Life
While specific details about Reilyn Turner’s personal life are not extensively documented, her commitment to soccer and her achievements speak volumes about her character and work ethic. As she embarks on her professional career, she remains focused on her goals and aspirations within the sport.
