CHICAGO – UIC head women's soccer coach David Nikolic has announced the promotion of two of his staff members — David Madsen and Rhianna Krutz — for the 2026 season. Madsen, has been elevated to Associate Head Coach, while Krutz has been promoted to Assistant Coach – Recruiting Coordinator. Both assistants played an integral part in the Flames' first Missouri Valley Conference (MVC) Tournament title and NCAA Tournament appearance in 2025.

Madsen has played a key role in the development of UIC's goalkeeper unit since his arrival in May 2021. "Dave has been a loyal and trusted partner as the project here at UIC developed over the last five seasons," Nikolic said. "He has been focused from the first day to help us continue to raise our program to higher levels." 

Madsen's focus was never more apparent than in the MVC championship match at Illinois State, when one of his pupils, Sara Sanabria, stopped three penalties during the decisive shootout to clinch UIC's historic first conference title. "Dave's commitment to the development of our goalkeeper is unmatched, and their performances each year has had a direct impact on our success" Nikolic noted. "I am happy for him as he elevates to the responsibilities of this role." 

Krutz, who came to UIC in 2024 and was promoted to assistant coach in February 2025, adds on the role of recruiting coordinator for the upcoming year. Starting off as a volunteer, Krutz has made a profound effect on the team through the years. "Our staff and team benefit each day from the energy and passion Rhianna brings," Nikolic said. "She is an extremely talented coach on the field and this promotion to recruiting coordinator will showcase her eye for talent as we strive to combine the best local players to regional and national recruiting prospects." 

Krutz has not only been a motivating force for the Flames on and off the pitch but she also has been a significant contributor to the program's growth on the social media space. "I know that Rhianna's positive impact will continue for season to come and am happy for her!" Nikolic summarized. 
 

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For more information, fans are encouraged to visit UICFlames.com, or follow the Flames on social media through X (@UIC_WSOC and @UICFlames) and Instagram (@uic_wsoc and @uicflames). 

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