ORLANDO, Fla. (March 11, 2024) — The Orlando Pride has signed defender Cori Dyke to a one-year contract that will keep the second-round draft pick in Orlando through the 2024 season, it was announced today. Dyke was selected by the Pride as the No. 22 overall pick in the 2024 NWSL Draft out of Penn State University.
“When we drafted Cori, we knew we were getting a versatile player who knows what it takes to compete at this level. Her performance throughout preseason has confirmed that for us,” VP of Soccer Operations and General Manager Haley Carter said. “Cori fits into our system and the style we want to play. We are confident that with the help of the veterans on the team and her experience coming out of Penn State, she can make a smooth transition into the professional game and grow into a strong player within the league.”
“I feel incredibly blessed to have signed my first professional contract with the Pride and see my dreams become a reality,” Dyke said. “This club is building something really special that I am so excited to be a part of. We have clear goals in mind heading into this season – we want to win championships – and I am prepared to do whatever it takes to help make that happen and contribute to the success of this team moving forward.”
The former Nittany Lion had a very decorated collegiate career where she totaled 108 appearances, all of which were starts, nine goals and nine assists. In 2023 she was named 2023 Big Ten Defender of the Year after being named a Big Ten Player to watch in the preseason.
Her 2023 campaign saw her start all 17 matches and anchor a backline that surrendered a Big Ten best just nine goals. The fifth-year senior also added 10 points on four goals and two assists on the offensive side of the pitch during the year.
Internationally, she has represented the U.S. Women’s National Team from the U-14 through U-23 levels. She also helped the U-19 USWNT to a first-place finish in a four-team tournament in China.
TRANSACTION: Orlando Pride signs defender Cori Dyke to a one-year contract through the 2024 season.
Cori Dyke
Position: Defender
Number: 31
Height: 5-6
Born: Sept. 20, 2000 in San Jose, Calif.
Hometown: Littleton, Colo.
Citizenship: USA
