Stephanie Sparkowski Bio
Stephanie Elisabeth Sparkowski (born April 18, 2002) is an American professional soccer player who plays for Chicago Stars FC of the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL). She played college soccer for the Michigan Wolverines. Sparkowski grew up in East Meadow, New York, where she attended East Meadow High School. Captaining her high school soccer team, she earned a reputation as a key player before moving on to collegiate competition. Throughout her collegiate career, she overcame challenges to become a standout goalkeeper, securing accolades and recognition for her performances.
Early Life and Background
Stephanie Sparkowski was born in East Meadow, New York. She attended East Meadow High School, where she excelled in soccer, basketball, and lacrosse. As a captain of her high school soccer team, she demonstrated leadership and skill, earning a four-year varsity letter. In her senior year, Sparkowski was named a Fall All-American and participated in the 2019 Allstate High School All-American game. Notably, she became the first female student to play on the East Meadow football team, serving as a placekicker while balancing her soccer commitments.
Path to Soccer
After high school, Stephanie Sparkowski committed to the University of Michigan, where she joined the Wolverines in 2021. Initially, she did not see playing time in her first two seasons, but she made her collegiate debut early in her junior year against Central Michigan on September 4, 2022. Despite limited appearances, she quickly established herself as a key player, particularly following the departure of the starting goalkeeper in 2023. Sparkowski’s performances garnered her recognition, including two consecutive Big Ten Goalkeeper of the Week honors in September 2023.
Stephanie Sparkowski Career
Early Career (2022-2023)
Sparkowski began her professional journey with the Long Island Rough Riders during the offseason leading up to her junior year of college. She made a significant impact, appearing in four regular season matches and one playoff fixture, maintaining a clean sheet in all her appearances except for the playoff game. Following her time with the Rough Riders, she joined the Chicago Stars FC’s preseason squad as a non-rostered invitee. Although she initially did not secure a contract, she later signed her first professional contract with Chicago on June 3, 2025, to provide roster relief.
Breakthrough (2023-2025)
Stephanie Sparkowski’s breakthrough came during her time with the Michigan Wolverines, where she became the starting goalkeeper. She played in all 18 matches for two consecutive seasons, achieving six clean sheets and an impressive 81% save percentage. Her standout performances during this period included a remarkable showing in the NCAA tournament, where she made seven saves to help her team in a challenging match. In her final season with Michigan, she broke her single-game save record, demonstrating her growth and skill as a goalkeeper.
Notable Works and Milestones
Sparkowski’s signature achievements include being named the Big Ten Goalkeeper of the Week and receiving the Big Ten Sportsmanship Award in both 2022 and 2023. These accolades reflect her dedication and talent on the field.
Stephanie Sparkowski Award Nominations
Throughout her career, Stephanie Sparkowski has received several nominations for her exceptional performances, including recognition for the Big Ten Sportsmanship Award in 2022 and 2023.
Stephanie Sparkowski Awards Won
Stephanie Sparkowski has won notable awards, including the Big Ten Goalkeeper of the Week in 2023 and the Big Ten Sportsmanship Award in both 2022 and 2023.
Stephanie Sparkowski Family
Stephanie Sparkowski is engaged to Jade Gray. Details about her family background are not publicly available.
Personal Life
Stephanie Sparkowski’s personal life includes her engagement to Jade Gray, which took place on December 2, 2024. She has not publicly shared additional personal details.