CHICAGO (April 22, 2014) – The Chicago Red Stars announced today the signing of former University of Illinois forward Niki Read. With today’s signing, the Red Stars now add their third Illini player to the 2014 roster. Per club and league policy, terms of Read’s contract were not disclosed.

Read joins Illinois teammates Vanessa DiBernardo, who was drafted by the Red Stars in the 1^st round of the 2014 NWSL college draft, and Jackie Santacaterina, who has been a member of the team since 2010.

Read, a 20-year-old native of Lake Orion, Michigan, is a former forward from the University of Illinois. She started in all 23 games for the Illini during her senior season, tallying the second most shots on goal for the team with 58. During her junior year, Read saw a total of 2,001 minutes of playing time and lead the team in assists with seven. During her time at Illinois she was named Big Ten Freshman of the Week, Chicagoland Soccer News Player of the Week, and College Soccer 360 Primetime Player.

“We’re excited to have Niki join the team,” Red Stars head coach Rory Dames said. “She has shown throughout these last few weeks that she can contribute at the professional level. Her game has improved every day, and we believe there is a role for her on our team.”

The Chicago Red Stars (1-0-0), fresh off of their season-opening victory against Western New York at Toyota Park on Saturday, will return to their home stadium, the Village of Lisle – Benedictine University Sports Complex, on Saturday, April 26 at 7pm CT. For tickets, or for more information, please visit https://chicagoredstars.com/tickets or call 773.697.8699.

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Niki Read
Position: Forward
Height: 5’6”
Born: November 26, 1991
Hometown: Lake Orion, Michigan
College: University of Illinois