Galway United FC has signed former Illinois State soccer standout Jade Rehberger, continuing her professional soccer career in Ireland. The 5-foot-7 defender from Fort Thomas, Kentucky, joins the club's women's team, which won the inaugural All-Island Cup in 2023 and successfully defended the title in 2024.
What happened?
Rehberger wrapped up her Illinois State career following the 2025 season after making 73 appearances and 73 starts across four seasons with the Redbirds. A key contributor throughout her career, Rehberger earned All-Missouri Valley Conference First Team honors in 2025 after helping Illinois State put together one of the strongest defensive seasons in program history.
Why it matters for Galway United
Rehberger becomes the latest former Redbird to continue her soccer career at the professional level, joining defender Kate Del Fava, who plays for the Utah Royals in the National Women's Soccer League. The signing is a significant boost for Galway United's women's team, which is currently 7th in the Premier Division with 30 points from 26 games, 24 points behind leaders Shamrock Rovers.
What comes next?
Rehberger will look to make an immediate impact with Galway United, who are unbeaten in their last 4 games. The team's next fixture is against Bray Wanderers at home on August 14, 2026.
