Ella Burke, once a standout soccer player for Naperville Central, is back on the field. This return holds immense significance for her, and for many who doubted they would see her play again. As an incoming senior at Cincinnati, Burke’s reputation as a top-tier defender in the state was well-earned during her time with the Redhawks. However, her journey was marred by serious injuries that sidelined her for nearly two years.
This summer, Burke’s return with River Light FC, a team based in Aurora competing in the USL W League, sparked celebration. Coach Anne Iwinski of River Light FC was thrilled. She recalled, “She sent a text maybe two weeks before the season started. She said, ‘I’ve decided I’m going to be home for the summer. Do you have room?’ I said, ‘We’d love to have you.’”
Iwinski shares a link with Burke, both having played for the same high school coaches before pursuing Division I soccer. Burke previously played for River Light prior to Iwinski’s tenure, ahead of her sophomore year at Cincinnati. Her situation changed drastically that fall with a torn ACL and meniscus in her right knee. “Things were going really well,” Burke said. “In practice, I just took a wrong step, and I felt the whole thing go. I knew right when it happened that I had torn it.”
Her sophomore season vanished, and plans for her junior return were thwarted by compartment syndrome. “Every time I’d run, my calf would hurt so bad,” Burke noted. The severe pain led to a test that revealed high muscle pressure, preventing circulation and risking amputation. “I mentally prepared myself for the doctor to tell me I was medically disqualified,” she shared.
Fortunately diagnosed early, successful surgery in January enabled Burke’s comeback. Despite her scars, she is pain-free and excelling anew. Burke impressed during a game against RKC Third Coast, closing gaps and aiding in River Light’s 4-1 victory. “She shuts players down. We really like the way she closes space,” Iwinski remarked.
With three years of eligibility left, Burke’s decision to play remains open as she considers a path in physical therapy. Reflecting on her injuries, she said, “All the injuries have definitely inspired me to pursue a career in physical therapy.” Despite her harrowing journey, she finds gratitude in her return to the game. “It’s truly such a blessing, and I’m so grateful to be able to play the sport I love again because I never thought I’d be able to,” Burke concluded.
Matt Le Cren is a freelance reporter.