Chambana Sun

Janet Rayfield, the head coach of Illinois Soccer, has announced her retirement after leading the team for 23 seasons. She will remain in her position until a successor is appointed to ensure a smooth transition.

Rayfield became the third head coach of Fighting Illini Soccer in 2002 and led the team to 10 NCAA Tournaments. Her tenure included four trips to the Round of 16 and a Quarterfinal appearance in 2004. Under her guidance, Illinois also secured two Big Ten Tournament Titles. Rayfield leaves as the most successful coach in program history with an overall record of 234-183-45.

"There is a quote that reads, 'In any moment, joy can co-exist with grief or sorrow and laughter can share space with pain.' I am retiring with great joy and in celebration of all this program has given me," Rayfield expressed. "I am extremely grateful to Josh Whitman and his predecessors for the privilege of leading this program for the last 23 years."

Rayfield's impact on Illinois Women's Soccer extended beyond victories; she produced seven All-Americans, seven Big Ten Players of the Year, and saw several players drafted into professional soccer or making national team debuts.

"Janet Rayfield is a legend in the sport of soccer, and a transformative leader we are so fortunate to have had directing our program these past 23 seasons," said Josh Whitman, Illinois Director of Athletics. "She is a pioneer; one of the first college stars as women's soccer transitioned from AIAW to NCAA."

During her time at Illinois, Rayfield achieved notable milestones including reaching new heights early on by winning Illinois' first Big Ten Tournament championship in 2003 and advancing to the NCAA quarterfinals for the first time in school history in 2004.

In recognition of her contributions to soccer, Rayfield received numerous accolades such as being named Great Lakes Region Coach of the Year and receiving prestigious awards like NSCAA Honor Award and Women's Soccer Award of Excellence.

As she steps down from coaching duties at Illinois Soccer, Rayfield acknowledges those who supported her journey: "I want to specifically thank Jeff Freeman for being...loyal associate head coach...and our academic advisor Shari Clapp...And I am so thankful...to all athletes...who have made this job every single day."

Her departure marks an end but also sets stage for future achievements within Demirjian Park—a testament to lasting dreams realized through support from Demirjian Family enabling elite competition facilities benefiting both collegiate level players along youth across Midwest region communities alike.