East Ridge High School senior Rhyen Foley signed her letter of intent Friday to continue her running career at Florida Gulf Coast University, where she will compete in women’s cross country and outdoor track and field beginning in fall 2026.

Rhyen was one of 10 East Ridge student-athletes recognized during the school’s collegiate signing ceremony May 8.

A four-year letterman in both cross country and track and field, Rhyen helped lead the Knights to two county championships, four district championships and the school’s first regional championship in cross country.

She also leaves East Ridge as the fastest female runner in school history after setting the school’s 5K record of 18:00 during her junior season at the New World Fall Spectacular in October 2024.

Throughout her high school career, Rhyen earned 30 place medals, including three district medals, three regional medals, one state medal and four regular season individual championships.

When asked who helped her reach the collegiate level, Rhyen credited her family and coaches.

“My parents for always providing what I needed to succeed in my athletics,” Rhyen says. “Their encouragement and love kept me grounded at my highest and lowest.”

She also thanked her coaches for helping shape her into the runner she became.

“I wouldn’t be the runner that I am without their dedication to the sport,” Rhyen says.

Her junior season performances drew attention from several college programs, but it was a visit to Florida Gulf Coast during her senior year that ultimately solidified her decision to become an Eagle.

Academically, Rhyen plans to major in legal studies while pursuing a future career in criminology or political science.

Before leaving East Ridge, Rhyen also shared advice for younger runners in the program.

“Run with confidence and determination,” Rhyen says. “You aren’t going to have a good race every time or even a good practice, it’s not controllable. The only thing that you can control is how you handle it.”

Photos provided.