Kristen and Riley’s story began in college, back when the only thing on their minds was athletics. They met during preseason- Riley was gearing up for football, and Kristen was getting ready for soccer. The campus was quiet, just athletes, early mornings, and late training sessions. One night, all the fall athletes got together for a casual meet-and-greet. That’s where Kristen and Riley first officially met- just a quick introduction, a few laughs, and a feeling that they'd be seeing more of each other. At first, it was passing hellos and nods across campus. But as the days went on, the conversations got longer, the jokes funnier, and it didn’t take long before something simple started to feel like something special. After graduation, life took them in different directions- new jobs, new cities, and a global pandemic. Just as they were learning how to navigate life outside of college, they were also learning how to stay connected across states. Long distance during a pandemic wasn’t part of the plan, but it made them stronger. FaceTime calls that had to stand in for real hugs, late-night video chats, care packages, and finding small ways to make each other feel close even when they were far apart. It reminded them that what they have is rooted in something deeper than proximity. Preseason brought them together, but it was everything after that built what they have now. And here they are, getting ready for their greatest season yet- married life!