Riley Jackson Bio
Riley Francis Jackson (born December 2, 2005) is an American professional soccer player who plays as a midfielder for the North Carolina Courage of the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL). She was named the Gatorade National Player of the Year in 2022 and signed with the Courage at age 17 in 2023. She has represented the United States at the under-17, under-20, and under-23 levels, helping win bronze at the 2024 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup.
Early Life and Background
Riley Jackson was born and raised in Roswell, Georgia. She began her soccer journey with the Roswell Soccer Club, where her father coached her team. After a decade with the club, she joined the ECNL club Concorde Fire, where she played up an age group. Jackson’s talent was recognized when she was named the ECNL Southeast Conference Player of the Year in 2021. In 2022, she achieved national recognition as the ECNL National Player of the Year, leading her team to the ECNL under-18/19 national title. During her high school years at Blessed Trinity Catholic High School in Roswell, she accumulated an impressive record of 36 goals and 48 assists. Her standout performance in 2022 earned her the Gatorade National Player of the Year title as a sophomore, contributing significantly to her team’s success with 14 goals and 18 assists, ultimately leading them to the GHSA Class 5A state semifinals.
Path to Soccer
Jackson’s journey into professional soccer began when North Carolina Courage head coach Sean Nahas invited her to train with the team in the summer of 2022. Following her impressive performance, she was offered a professional contract, which led her to forgo her college eligibility and officially sign with the Courage in July 2023. Despite facing a foot injury that sidelined her for the remainder of the year, Jackson made her professional debut on March 16, 2024, as a substitute in a season-opening match against the Houston Dash. She earned her first start in June 2024 and scored her first professional goal in July 2024 during the NWSL x Liga MX Femenil Summer Cup, showcasing her potential as a rising star in the league.
Riley Jackson Career
Early Career (2023)
Jackson’s professional career began with her signing to North Carolina Courage in 2023. Her early achievements included being named the ECNL National Player of the Year and her contributions to her high school team, which set the stage for her transition to professional soccer. Despite her injury setback, Jackson’s determination and skill were evident in her debut season.
Breakthrough (2024)
Jackson’s breakthrough moment came in 2024 when she made her professional debut and quickly established herself as a valuable player for the Courage. Her performance in the NWSL x Liga MX Femenil Summer Cup highlighted her scoring ability and composure under pressure. As the season progressed, she became an integral part of the team’s lineup, playing in 18 regular-season games and contributing to the Courage’s overall performance.
Notable Works and Milestones
Jackson’s signature work includes her debut season with the North Carolina Courage, where she showcased her talent and potential. Her notable achievements include scoring her first professional goal and her contributions to the United States U-20 team, helping them secure a bronze medal at the 2024 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup.
Riley Jackson Award Nominations
Throughout her young career, Riley Jackson has received recognition for her outstanding performances on the field, including her accolades at the youth level and her significant contributions to her teams.
Riley Jackson Awards Won
Jackson’s achievements include being named the Gatorade National Player of the Year and the ECNL National Player of the Year, highlighting her exceptional talent and impact in youth soccer.
Riley Jackson Family
Information regarding Riley Jackson’s family is limited, but it is known that her father coached her youth soccer team, indicating a supportive family background in her athletic pursuits.
Personal Life
Details about Riley Jackson’s personal life remain private, focusing primarily on her soccer career and achievements. As she continues to develop in her professional career, further insights into her personal life may emerge.
