Cloey Uddenberg represents the Purdue University women’s soccer team during a match in August, as captured in a photo by Jacob Wright of Purdue Athletics. (Jacob Wright/Purdue Athletics)
Cloey Uddenberg, a 22-year-old soccer talent from Richmond Hill, Ontario, has become the third local player to sign with AFC Toronto, a team in Canada’s upcoming Northern Super League. This marks a significant milestone for Uddenberg, who is not just an accomplished player but also a role model for young girls dreaming of professional soccer careers.
Despite her international exposure, which includes representing St. Kitts & Nevis at the youth and senior levels and playing university soccer in Canada and the U.S., Uddenberg remains deeply connected to her roots. When not on the field, she coaches aspiring players at the Aurora Soccer Club, instilling in them the belief that professional soccer is now a viable career path in Canada.
“It’s more than just my friends and family being able to watch me,” Uddenberg shared. “Having the young girls I coach see me play is what matters. It shows them they can achieve their dreams here at home.”
A Promising Journey
Uddenberg’s soccer career began at the University of Guelph, where she earned the title of 2021 U Sports Rookie of the Year. She later transferred to South Alabama, experiencing an undefeated regular season, before moving to Purdue. Her consistent performances at the NCAA Division I level solidified her reputation as a skilled midfielder with a strong work ethic.
Marko Milanovic, AFC Toronto’s head coach, praised Uddenberg’s talent: “Cloey’s mastery of the fundamentals and her versatility will significantly boost our team’s performance. We’re thrilled to have her.”
Uddenberg also shone internationally, competing in CONCACAF tournaments and gaining invaluable experience on the senior national team of St. Kitts & Nevis at just 14 years old. Her journey has been shaped by these opportunities and her family ties to the Caribbean nation, where her father’s parents were born.
Rising Through the Ranks
Before joining AFC Toronto, Uddenberg played for Simcoe Rovers FC in League1 Ontario. Her standout performances earned her consecutive all-star honours and the 2023 Midfielder of the Year title.
She is excited to bring her experience to AFC Toronto, a team that aims to redefine women’s soccer in Canada. The club and five others across the country will compete in the Northern Super League, Canada’s first professional women’s league, set to launch in April 2025.
Building More Than a Team
AFC Toronto also debuted its merchandise on the day of Uddenberg’s signing. Reflecting on the brand’s slogan, “Run it Our Way,” Uddenberg said, “It represents who we are and what we aim to build. This isn’t just about soccer or clothing—it’s about creating something new and meaningful.”
With players like Uddenberg, the league looks poised to inspire a generation and elevate women’s soccer in Canada.
