HERRIMAN, Utah (Friday, September 4, 2026) - Utah Royals FC announced today the extension of defender Kaleigh Riehl through the 2027 NWSL season with an option for 2028.
The Utah Royals acquired the veteran defender in November of 2023 from San Diego Wave FC, where she appeared in 19 of 22 matches and won the 2023 NWSL Shield. That season, Riehl contributed to one of the league’s best defenses that gave up the second least amount of goals (22) and the least expected goals against (23.6). Before coming to Utah, Riehl made 52 appearances with San Diego after various stints with Racing Louisville, Paris FC and Sky Blue FC from 2020-2021.
Since her arrival to Utah, Riehl has been a fundamental part of the Royals’ defensive line. She made 14 appearances in her debut season, completing 90% of her passes and tallying one assist. The following season, Riehl appeared in 12 matches, logging a goal and an assist in 831 minutes played.
In 2026, Riehl's presence has been crucial to a defensive line that has reached new heights, playing a big role in Utah's historic 10-game unbeaten streak. Riehl has started 11 of the Royals’ 16 matches in her third season with the Club, within which Utah experienced a five-game clean sheet streak from April 3 to May 10. The Royals have conceded only 9 goals in the 11 games Riehl has started, and with six clean sheets in 2026, the Club has already matched its total from the 2025 NWSL season in 10 fewer games. Riehl can also have a notable offensive presence, logging an assist in the 3-0 win over Seattle Reign FC on April 26.
Despite missing some time with injury, Riehl returned to the field on Saturday against the North Carolina Courage, playing a total of 27 minutes in the 4-1 win. With her defensive prowess and experience, Riehl is set to play a major part in Utah’s search for a first NWSL title in 2026 and beyond.
