Ella Burke’s Comeback to Soccer After Major Injuries

Ella Burke, once a prominent soccer player at Naperville Central, is back on the field. She feared losing the chance to play the sport she loves. Burke is now an incoming senior at Cincinnati, recognized for her exceptional defense during her time with the Redhawks. Her career faced significant disruptions due to severe injuries, sidelining her for nearly two years.

This summer, Burke’s return to the game with River Light FC marked a cause for celebration. This Aurora-based team competes in the preprofessional USL W League. Coach Anne Iwinski expressed excitement upon Burke’s return. “We were really excited to have her,” Iwinski said. “She texted two weeks before the season began and asked if there was room. I said, ‘We’d love to have you.’” Iwinski and Burke share a similar background. Both played for the same coaches in high school before moving on to Division I soccer.

In 2024, Burke played for River Light, before Coach Iwinski joined the club, in preparation for her sophomore year at Cincinnati. Unfortunately, her career suffered another setback that fall with a torn ACL and meniscus in her right knee. “Things were going really well,” Burke said. “In practice, I took a wrong step, and I felt it go. I knew immediately what it meant.” Her sophomore season ended there, and hopes were high for a recovery until she was again struck by misfortune with compartment syndrome.

“Every time I ran, my calf hurt badly,” Burke shared. Her toes would go numb, indicating a problem. The pain reached a point where she could no longer train, which was unusual for someone with her resolve. “I don’t give up easily,” she stated. A test confirmed alarmingly high muscle pressure, revealing a need for immediate intervention. Burke was warned of risks including potential amputation, but she caught the issue early, allowing for a successful surgery.

Cleared to play in January, Burke, though scarred, experienced no pain. Her performance has impressed her peers. During a summer game against RKC Third Coast, she was an essential player. River Light’s goalkeeper, Alyssa Gluting, who remembers Burke from high school competitions, remarked on Burke’s consistent performance. Gluting was thrilled to play alongside Burke, saying, “This is how she always is; it was like she was never hurt.” Burke played a crucial role in River Light’s 4-1 victory, demonstrating her defensive skills.

Coach Iwinski praised Burke’s ability, noting her knack for shutting down opponents. “She closes space well and prevents plays from developing,” Iwinski noted. Burke’s future in soccer remains open, with three years of eligibility. She plans to apply for a physical therapy program, inspired by her injuries. “The injuries have definitely pushed me toward a career in physical therapy,” Burke said. Her time with River Light FC has been fulfilling, supported by family who attended her games. Burke finds herself grateful for the opportunity to play once more, savoring each moment on the field.

Matt Le Cren provided reporting as a freelance contributor.