Riley Karpinski
Forward
Warrington, Pa.
Central Bucks High School South
Virginia Tech women’s soccer has signed Riley Karpinski to the 2026 recruiting class. Karpinski, a forward from Warrington, Pa., played club soccer with FC Delco ECNL. At the high school level, she was named a three-time Suburban One All-League Team and a Suburban One All-Team honoree.
“We’re excited to add Riley to our group,” head coach Chugger Adair said. “She’s a dynamic, athletic forward who is a proven goalscorer. She can play out wide and she can play central. She’s always able to threaten the goal and create goal-scoring opportunities for herself and her teammates. Can’t wait to have her a part of our offense and see her join our group!”
Why did you choose Tech? I chose VT because I know being on this team will help shape me to become a better person and athlete. The coaching staff and players were all so welcoming when I met them for the first time. On my visit, I got butterflies in my stomach and knew that this was where I wanted to go.
What was your favorite thing about your visit? My favorite thing about my visit was meeting the current freshmen and getting to hang out with them in the dorm. Talking to them and listening to all the funny stories that they’ve experienced at college, and playing together, made me really excited to join the team.
What do you like about the Tech women’s soccer program? I really liked the coaching and support staff and how they ensure every player is prepared for the field and classroom. The team is very positive. They work hard and push each other, leading to good team chemistry and culture, which is very important to me.
What are your soccer strengths? Growing up, I trained my non-dominant foot just as much as my dominant foot. This made my shots very unpredictable, as goalkeepers did not know which foot I was going to shoot with because they were equally strong. Another strength is my speed. I love getting through balls sent to me because the majority of the time, I’m able to beat the defender.
Who is your favorite pro player? My favorite pro player growing up was Alex Morgan. The way she played as a forward, always scoring the best goals, and her speed inspired me to work harder.
What do you plan on majoring in? I plan to major in Exercise & Health Sciences.
What is one thing you would want Tech fans to know about you? Although my last name is Karpinski, I’ve grown up being called the shorter version known as “Karp,” and it’s my favorite nickname.
