Cloey Uddenberg becomes 3rd local player to sign for Northern Super League’s AFC Toronto

AFC Toronto Welcomes Cloey Uddenberg: A Rising Star in Women’s Soccer

It’s almost 3:30 p.m. on a weekday afternoon, and AFC Toronto’s newest addition, Cloey Uddenberg, is gearing up to coach the next generation of players who may one day follow in her footsteps.

At just 22 years old, Uddenberg has already made a name for herself in the world of football, having played internationally for St. Kitts & Nevis and at various universities in the United States. However, despite her travels, there’s no place like home for this Richmond Hill native.

Uddenberg, who dedicates much of her free time to coaching at the Aurora Soccer Club, is thrilled to have signed her first professional contract with AFC Toronto in the Northern Super League. For her, the opportunity to inspire young girls and show them that they can pursue their dreams right in their own backyard is what truly matters.

Her collegiate journey began at the University of Guelph, where she was named the 2021 U Sports rookie of the year as a midfielder. She later transferred to South Alabama and then Purdue, where she established herself as a consistent and dependable player at the NCAA D-I level.

Marko Milanovic, head coach of AFC Toronto, praises Uddenberg for her mastery of the fundamentals and relentless work ethic, which he believes will elevate the team’s performance.

Internationally, Uddenberg has represented the Sugar Girlz at both the youth and senior levels, participating in CONCACAF World Cup and Olympic qualifying tournaments. Playing for the island nations of St. Kitts & Nevis has played a significant role in shaping her into the player she is today.

Recently, Uddenberg shone for Simcoe Rovers FC in League1 Ontario, earning back-to-back all-star honors and being named the 2023 Midfielder of the Year.

As the fourth signing for AFC Toronto and the third from the Greater Toronto Area, Uddenberg joins striker Jade Kovacevic and midfielder Leah Pais in the squad. The team’s merchandise release coincides with Uddenberg’s signing, and she is impressed not only by the colors but also by the empowering message they convey.

AFC Toronto, part of the Northern Super League alongside five other teams, including Halifax Tides FC, Montreal Roses FC, Ottawa Rapid FC, Calgary Wild FC, and Vancouver Rise FC, is gearing up for the inaugural season starting in April 2025.

Uddenberg’s journey from grassroots soccer to the professional ranks is a testament to hard work, dedication, and a passion for the game. As she takes the field for AFC Toronto, she carries with her the hopes and dreams of young girls everywhere who aspire to follow in her footsteps.