One can outperform anyone on and off the field, but it may be difficult to do so alone. However, that’s not the case with Lincoln Riley, the head coach of the University of Southern California (USC) Trojans. His wife, Caitlin Riley, backed him up. Caitlin Riley is more than just a coach’s wife; she’s a partner, a friend, and a confidante. Caitlin is a constant presence in Riley’s life, supporting him through the ups and downs of his coaching career.

From his struggling days as an assistant to the top-tier head coach of USC, he had his wife every step of the way. Let’s take a closer look at the woman who keeps Riley grounded and focused on his goals.

The woman behind the head coach’s success

“Caitlin is my rock,” Riley said in an interview. Born on September 5, 1983, in Los Angeles, California, she attended Dimmitt High School. She is a graduate of Texas Tech University, where she played soccer. The couple met in their high school days and began dating in 2002. They were in a long relationship of 5 years before finally tying the knot on July 14, 2007. They were made each other’s at First Methodist Church in Marble Falls, Texas. Soon after their honeymoon in Maui, they built a life together along with two daughters, Sloan and Stella.

She has played a vital role in Riley’s success, providing emotional support and encouragement throughout his career. “She’s the one who keeps me grounded and reminds me of what’s important.”, Riley acknowledges. When she is not at home with her daughter, you can find her cheering on the sidelines at USC games. Riley also shouted out to his wife by uploading a post on Instagram, with the caption, “Happy Mothers Day” on May 13.

Caitlin Riley is more than just a homemaker!

The head coach has many significant skills up his sleeve and has bagged many achievements, including multiple Big 12 Championships and a contract with USC that includes a base salary of $10 million annually. Though the coach is active on social platforms, his wife still maintains a low profile and is more focused on supporting her husband and raising their children.

A new chapter started for the Riley family, when they moved to Los Angeles, California, following Lincoln’s transition to USC in 2021. Despite her husband often making the headlines and having a lot of grind on the field, she has been understanding and crucial to Riley’s career and the family’s well-being. From their early days at Texas Tech to the bustling life in Los Angeles, she has been a cornerstone of Lincoln’s career.