CHICAGO (Aug. 16, 2024) – The UIC women's soccer program has added
Rhianna Krutz as an assistant coach, head coach
David Nikolic announced. Krutz, who has previously worked with several Division I programs, will be a valuable addition as the Flames continue to build on their success in the Missouri Valley Conference.
"I'm excited to announce the appointment of Rhianna Krutz to our coaching team," said Nikolic. "I've known Rhi as both a player and a coach for many years, and I believe her experience in the MVC will be a great asset as we move forward. She's worked with some fantastic people during her journey as a college coach, which has given her a solid foundation in coaching. I'm looking forward to helping her continue that growth at UIC. I expect her to bring a fresh perspective and intensity to everything we do."
Krutz's most recent stop was at the University of the Pacific, but before that, she spent four seasons at her alma mater and MVC member, Illinois State. She joined the Redbirds in 2019, helping guide the program to a 14-6 record that year. At Illinois State, she focused on the forward line and team defense while playing a key role in recruiting.
Prior to Illinois State, Krutz spent the 2018 season at Valparaiso, another MVC team. She began her coaching career at Dayton, where she served as the director of operations during the 2017 season.
Krutz brings significant MVC experience to the Flames program, having been a five-year member of the Illinois State women's soccer team (2012-16). During her time with the Redbirds, she was part of three MVC regular-season championship squads and four MVC tournament title teams. Notably, in 2013, she started the final nine games as Illinois State captured both the regular-season and tournament titles, advancing to the second round of the NCAA Tournament—one of two such trips she made with the Redbirds.
A native of Des Plaines, Ill., Krutz earned her bachelor's degree in therapeutic recreation from Illinois State University in 2016.
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