HIGH SCHOOL & CLUB
A native of Chatham, New Jersey, Cross arrives in Happy Valley as the highest-rated prospect in PSU’s 2025 class, boasting the No. 25 national ranking according to TopDrawerSoccer… Cross was a dynamic prospect in a wide array of environments, including the high school, ECNL and U.S. Women’s Youth National Team ranks… Cross has participated in multiple domestic training camps with the U.S. U15 and U17 Women’s Youth National Teams, also being named an alternate for the 2024 FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup… While participating in youth soccer with the Players Development Academy, Cross was named a two-time ECNL First Team All-Conference choice and a 2024 ECNL All-American… She attended Oak Knoll High School from 2021 to 2023, scoring 55 goals in her first two years of high school soccer while landing a pair of First Team All-Conference honors… She wrapped up her high school soccer career at Chatham High School, earning Conference MVP accolades alongside First Team All-State laurels, guiding her squad to a state championship in the process.
PERSONAL
Born in the fall of 2007, Riley Cross is the eldest child and only daughter of Jennifer and David Cross… She has one younger brother, named Jack… Outside of her academic and soccer commitments in high school, she was also involved in Huddle for Hearts, a charity dedicated to sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) awareness, helping to organize events to educate others and support SCA awareness… While attending Penn State, Cross plans on studying advertising and public relations, and will ultimately look to continue her soccer career professionally upon graduation from PSU.
WHY PENN STATE
“I chose Penn State for its elite culture, unmatched school spirit, and blend of academic and athletic excellence. The energy on campus and pride of being a Nittany Lion are contagious. With a top-notch coaching staff and a winning tradition, Penn State will push me to grow as a student and athlete. What truly sets it apart is the people – teammates, coaching and community who make it feel like family.”