The name Kelly Berger stands tall in the world of lacrosse — not only as the former wife of men’s lacrosse legend Paul Rabil, but as a remarkable athlete, coach, and leader in her own right. Her journey weaves together themes of passion, athletic excellence, resilience, and reinvention. While many recognize Paul Rabil for his groundbreaking role in professional lacrosse, few fully understand the story of Kelly Berger — the woman whose drive and achievements have made an enduring mark on women’s lacrosse and beyond.
This article delves deep into Kelly Berger’s life story, exploring her early years, college dominance, career milestones, marriage to Rabil, and her life after their separation. More importantly, it highlights how she built her own identity in the athletic world and continues to shape the sport through coaching and fitness entrepreneurship.
Quick Information Table
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Kelly Berger (also known as Kelly Berger Rabil) |
| Birthplace | Columbia, Maryland, USA |
| Education | James Madison University (JMU) |
| College Career | Played from 2004 to 2007 |
| Position | Midfielder / Attack |
| College Stats | 184 goals, 78 assists, 262 total points |
| Major Awards | Two-Time All-American, CAA Player of the Year, JMU Hall of Fame Inductee (2017) |
| National Team | Participated in U.S. Women’s Lacrosse Programs |
| Profession | Lacrosse Coach, Fitness Instructor, Entrepreneur |
| Former Spouse | Paul Rabil (married 2014 – divorced 2017) |
| Current Work | Head Coach at UMBC Women’s Lacrosse / Owner of Resistance Fitness |
1. Early Life and Athletic Roots
Kelly Berger was born and raised in Columbia, Maryland — a community that has produced some of the finest lacrosse players in the United States. Growing up in an athletic family, she developed a competitive edge early on. Her natural coordination and field vision quickly made her one of the most promising young lacrosse players in her region.
At Hammond High School, Berger was known for her leadership on and off the field. She captained her team, set scoring records, and earned numerous regional honors. Her high school performance attracted attention from top college recruiters across the country, ultimately leading her to James Madison University (JMU) — a decision that would define her career and shape her legacy in the sport.
2. College Career at James Madison University
From the moment she joined JMU, Kelly Berger established herself as one of the most dynamic players in collegiate women’s lacrosse. Between 2004 and 2007, she played 73 games, scoring an incredible 184 goals and contributing 78 assists, for a total of 262 points. These stats placed her among the all-time greats at JMU.
Her explosive speed, exceptional game sense, and leadership helped JMU secure two CAA championships and multiple NCAA tournament appearances. She earned First-Team All-America honors twice and was recognized as CAA Player of the Year for her outstanding performance.
More than just numbers, Berger brought a commanding presence to the field. She was known for her endurance, creative playmaking, and relentless work ethic. Teammates recall her as the kind of leader who inspired through action rather than words — a player who made those around her better.
3. Transition to the National Stage
After college, Berger’s ambition didn’t wane. She participated in U.S. women’s national lacrosse programs and developmental circuits, competing with and against some of the best athletes in the sport. While she didn’t pursue a lengthy professional playing career, her presence in national trials reflected the respect she commanded among coaches and peers.
Her transition from collegiate star to national-level competitor underscored her versatility. Berger also began mentoring younger athletes and working in athletic training programs, laying the groundwork for her eventual move into coaching and fitness leadership.
4. Meeting Paul Rabil and Their Shared Passion
Kelly Berger’s connection with Paul Rabil began in the world they both loved — lacrosse. Their paths crossed through mutual tournaments, sporting events, and professional circles in Maryland, a state where lacrosse is almost a way of life.
At the time, Rabil was quickly becoming a household name. A Johns Hopkins University standout, he was transforming into one of the most recognizable figures in men’s lacrosse, known for his power, precision, and professionalism. Berger, meanwhile, was carving her own niche in women’s lacrosse as a respected player and mentor.
The pair shared an intense passion for fitness, training, and competition. Their mutual understanding of the athlete’s mindset made them an inspiring duo, both publicly and privately. They married in 2014, bringing together two of lacrosse’s most accomplished figures.
5. Marriage and Personal Growth
During their marriage, Berger and Rabil represented the ideal of an athletic power couple. Their shared experiences — balancing training, travel, and public expectations — offered them unique insight into the challenges elite athletes face.
However, life under constant spotlight and competing schedules can test even the strongest relationships. In 2017, after three years of marriage, Kelly Berger and Paul Rabil divorced. Neither has spoken extensively about the reasons behind their separation, choosing instead to maintain mutual respect and privacy.
Their marriage, though brief, remains an important chapter in both of their lives. For Rabil, it coincided with his transition from player to entrepreneur and league founder. For Berger, it marked a turning point toward self-redefinition and renewed focus on her own pursuits.
6. Paul Rabil’s Continued Legacy
To understand Kelly Berger’s impact, it’s helpful to appreciate the world Paul Rabil helped shape. Often called the “LeBron James of Lacrosse,” Rabil revolutionized the sport by co-founding the Premier Lacrosse League (PLL) in 2018. He broke traditional models, offering better pay, exposure, and media presence for players.
Rabil’s story has been widely covered in documentaries such as Fate of a Sport, which not only chronicled his athletic and business achievements but also hinted at the personal sacrifices he made along the way. Berger’s image even appears briefly, symbolizing a chapter of his personal evolution.
Their intertwined histories showcase how two people, deeply dedicated to their craft, navigated the complexities of ambition, love, and reinvention within the same demanding world.
7. Kelly Berger’s Career After Divorce
After parting ways with Rabil, Kelly Berger channeled her energy into building a sustainable and empowering life rooted in fitness, wellness, and coaching. She launched Resistance Fitness and Resistance Cycle, blending athletic conditioning with motivational training designed for athletes and everyday clients alike.
She also returned to her collegiate roots as a lacrosse coach, eventually taking on the role of Head Coach for the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC) women’s lacrosse team. Under her leadership, the program emphasized both athletic excellence and mental resilience.
Her work as a coach highlights her philosophy: athletic performance is as much about mindset and preparation as it is about physical ability. In this sense, she continues to shape the next generation of lacrosse players — both physically and emotionally.
8. Entrepreneurial and Fitness Ventures
Outside of coaching, Berger’s entrepreneurial ventures have thrived. Her fitness programs focus on strength training, injury prevention, and functional mobility — all inspired by her experience as a high-performance athlete.
Through her company, she promotes a balanced approach to wellness, emphasizing empowerment, consistency, and community. Her social media platforms have become hubs for inspiration, where she shares workout tips, motivational insights, and glimpses into her life as a trainer and mother.
Kelly Berger’s brand is authentic, relatable, and built on credibility. Unlike many celebrity trainers, her expertise comes from real athletic experience, making her voice especially respected in the fitness world.
9. Influence on Women’s Lacrosse
Kelly Berger’s story isn’t just about personal reinvention; it’s also about influence. As one of JMU’s all-time greats, she has become a role model for young women aspiring to balance athletic ambition with education and career development.
Her success in coaching at UMBC demonstrates her commitment to empowering female athletes. She emphasizes leadership, teamwork, and the importance of mental toughness. Her holistic approach — blending fitness, mentoring, and personal accountability — represents the evolving face of women’s sports leadership.
10. Relationship Legacy and Lasting Respect
Although her marriage to Paul Rabil ended years ago, there remains a sense of mutual respect between the two. Both continue to dedicate their lives to promoting lacrosse — he through the professional league and media initiatives, and she through coaching and athletic development.
Their story reflects the intersection of two great competitors who shaped each other’s perspectives. In many ways, both grew stronger from their shared experiences — learning to prioritize balance, emotional intelligence, and purpose beyond the playing field.
11. Lesser-Known Insights About Kelly Berger
One often overlooked aspect of Berger’s career is her early work in youth coaching and athlete development programs. Long before she became a head coach, she volunteered in youth lacrosse clinics, focusing on skill development for young girls.
Additionally, she has a strong interest in sports psychology and has spoken about how mental preparation can determine success as much as physical training. Her approach reflects the broader movement within modern coaching — seeing athletes as whole individuals, not just performers.
12. What Makes Kelly Berger’s Story Important
Kelly Berger’s journey embodies resilience. From collegiate stardom to personal reinvention, she has navigated the challenges of visibility, competition, and identity with grace.
Her story also underscores the value of women athletes in shaping sports culture. While men’s lacrosse often captures more media attention, Berger represents the excellence and leadership that define the women’s game. She has proven that even after the spotlight fades, true influence endures through mentorship and purpose.
13. Final Thoughts / Conclusion
The story of Kelly Berger and Paul Rabil is more than the tale of two athletes — it’s a study in passion, perseverance, and personal growth. While Rabil’s name dominates headlines as a league founder and record-setting player, Berger’s quiet yet powerful contributions have been equally vital to lacrosse’s cultural fabric.
From her groundbreaking years at James Madison University to her leadership roles as a coach and fitness entrepreneur, Berger has consistently demonstrated that strength goes beyond physical ability. It’s about adaptability, discipline, and the courage to evolve.
Today, she continues to inspire through her commitment to health, empowerment, and education — proving that her influence in the world of sports remains as strong as ever.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Who is Kelly Berger?
Kelly Berger is a former lacrosse star, fitness entrepreneur, and coach. She is best known for her collegiate career at James Madison University, her coaching at UMBC, and her previous marriage to lacrosse legend Paul Rabil.
2. What are Kelly Berger’s biggest achievements?
She is a two-time All-American, a former CAA Player of the Year, and a member of the JMU Athletics Hall of Fame. She also led her team to multiple championship appearances and remains one of JMU’s all-time scoring leaders.
3. What does Kelly Berger do now?
Kelly currently works as a lacrosse coach and fitness trainer. She runs her own fitness programs under Resistance Fitness and continues to inspire others through coaching and mentoring.
4. When were Kelly Berger and Paul Rabil married?
They were married in 2014 and divorced in 2017 after three years of marriage.
5. Did Kelly Berger play for the U.S. National Team?
Kelly participated in U.S. women’s lacrosse programs and national development circuits, representing the sport at a high competitive level after college.
6. How did Kelly Berger and Paul Rabil meet?
They met through their shared involvement in the lacrosse world, where both were elite players from Maryland and frequently attended tournaments and events within the same athletic community.
7. Does Kelly Berger still play lacrosse?
While she no longer competes professionally, she remains deeply involved as a coach and mentor, helping to develop the next generation of women’s lacrosse players.
8. What is Kelly Berger’s lasting legacy?
Kelly Berger’s legacy lies in her dual identity as both an accomplished athlete and a leader. She continues to shape women’s sports by advocating for strength, confidence, and lifelong athleticism.
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