Who is Kelly Berger? The Untold Story Of Paul Rabil’s Ex-Wife

Kelly Berger is an American former lacrosse player and fitness entrepreneur best known for her achievements on the field and her successful shift into the wellness industry. Born on February 24, 1985, in Columbia, Maryland, she built her reputation as a standout athlete before turning her focus to helping others achieve health and balance through fitness. A key figure in women’s lacrosse, Kelly represented the U.S. National Team and later founded Resistance Fitness, a center that promotes strength, inclusivity, and community. Her journey from professional sports to business ownership reflects determination, adaptability, and a deep passion for fitness — making her story a perfect example of growth beyond athletics.

Quick Bio: Kelly Berger

Early Life and Family Background

Kelly Berger was born on February 24, 1985, in Columbia, Maryland, into a supportive and sports-oriented family. Her father, Ed Berger, was a passionate golfer who encouraged discipline and healthy competition, while her mother, Karen L. Berger, worked in real estate and provided a stable, nurturing home that valued hard work and balance. Growing up, Kelly was surrounded by athletics and outdoor activities, which naturally shaped her love for sports. Her older brother, Stephen Berger, became a lacrosse star at Washington College and later played professionally, setting a strong example for her to follow. From a young age, Kelly’s family taught her the importance of teamwork, focus, and perseverance—qualities that became central to her athletic success and future leadership in the fitness industry.

Education and Athletic Foundation

Kelly attended Hammond High School in Columbia, Maryland, where she stood out as a gifted multi-sport athlete. She didn’t limit herself to just one discipline—alongside lacrosse, she played basketball, soccer, and participated in dance, developing both her agility and coordination. These diverse experiences helped her build athletic versatility and strong leadership skills. In 2004, she enrolled at James Madison University (JMU) to study Kinesiology, with a minor in Business, combining her love for movement science and her growing interest in entrepreneurship. Balancing demanding academic studies with the challenges of collegiate-level athletics helped Kelly develop the discipline and work ethic that would define her later career as both an athlete and a business owner.

Lacrosse Career and Achievements

Collegiate Success at James Madison University

At James Madison University, Kelly Berger quickly became one of the standout players on the JMU Dukes lacrosse team. Her speed, precision, and leadership earned her recognition across the Colonial Athletic Association (CAA). She was selected multiple times for the CAA First Team and won the CAA Player of the Year award, highlighting her as one of the best athletes in collegiate lacrosse. Her dedication on the field was matched by her academic focus, proving that she could balance excellence in both sports and education.

National Team and World Cup Victory

Kelly’s talent and consistency earned her a place on the U.S. Women’s National Lacrosse Team, where she represented her country on an international level. One of the defining moments of her career came in 2013, when she played a key role in helping the team win the Women’s Lacrosse World Cup. Known for her fast-paced, tactical, and disciplined playing style, Kelly stood out as both a team player and a game-changer on the field. Her performance in international competitions solidified her reputation as one of the most respected figures in women’s lacrosse.

Overcoming Injuries

Kelly’s athletic journey was not without setbacks. Throughout her lacrosse career, she suffered serious ACL injuries in both knees, each requiring months of rehabilitation. These challenges tested her physical and mental endurance, but Kelly never gave up. Instead, she used her recovery experience to deepen her understanding of the body, strengthening her future interest in fitness and wellness. Her ability to bounce back from injury not only inspired teammates and fans but also shaped her philosophy of resilience—a value she would later bring to her career in fitness training.

Transition to Fitness and Entrepreneurship

After an outstanding career in lacrosse, Kelly Berger retired from professional play in 2017 and decided to focus on a new passion—fitness and wellness. Her years as an athlete had already given her the foundation for this next chapter. She began teaching barre and group fitness classes at local studios, where her enthusiasm and expertise quickly earned her a loyal following. Realizing there was a need for accessible, flexible, and community-driven fitness solutions, she decided to take a bold step and create her own business. Drawing on her athletic discipline and leadership, Kelly founded Resistance Fitness, a space that blends high-quality workouts with a strong sense of support and belonging.

Resistance Fitness – Building a Fitness Community

Kelly Berger’s Resistance Fitness is more than just a gym—it’s a fitness community designed to make health accessible to everyone. The center offers a wide variety of classes, including barre, yoga, boxing, and hybrid strength programs, all led by experienced trainers. To meet the needs of people with busy schedules, Kelly also developed an online media vault featuring on-demand workouts that clients can do from home. The studio’s first-week-free policy encourages newcomers to experience the program without pressure. Her approach emphasizes inclusivity, positive energy, and sustainable fitness goals. As both a coach and entrepreneur, Kelly has built a reputation for motivating others, showing that physical wellness can be a lifelong journey rooted in balance and community support.

Kelly Berger Meeting and Marriage with Paul Rabil

Kelly Berger met Paul Rabil, one of the most well-known lacrosse players in the world, during their professional careers. Their shared passion for lacrosse and mutual respect for each other’s achievements created an instant connection. The couple married in 2014 in an intimate ceremony attended by family, friends, and fellow athletes. Their marriage was celebrated within the lacrosse community as a union of two elite players dedicated to advancing the sport. They often appeared together at events and were admired as a power couple who embodied hard work, athletic excellence, and partnership.

Who is Paul Rabil?

Paul Rabil is an American former professional lacrosse player, entrepreneur, and co-founder of the Premier Lacrosse League (PLL). Born on December 14, 1985, in Gaithersburg, Maryland, he became one of the most successful and recognizable figures in the sport. A graduate of Johns Hopkins University, where he won two NCAA Division I Championships, Rabil went on to play for teams like the Boston Cannons and New York Lizards in Major League Lacrosse. Known for his powerful shots and leadership, he earned multiple MVP awards and helped popularize lacrosse globally. After retiring from professional play in 2021, Paul Rabil continues to promote and grow the sport through his work with the PLL and various media and business ventures.

Divorce and Personal Growth

Despite their shared love for the game and deep mutual respect, Kelly and Paul Rabil divorced in 2017. The separation was private and handled with grace, reflecting the maturity of both individuals. Following the divorce, Kelly focused on rediscovering her identity outside of her marriage and channeling her energy into personal growth and business development. Her decision to dedicate herself to fitness training and entrepreneurship demonstrated strength, independence, and resilience. The experience helped her grow emotionally and professionally, turning a challenging chapter into a period of transformation and self-empowerment.

Finding Love Again – Relationship with Josh Carlegis

After her divorce, Kelly Berger found love again with Josh Carlegis, an army veteran, real estate professional, and fitness enthusiast. Josh shares Kelly’s passion for active living, adventure, and wellness. The couple enjoys activities like CrossFit, fishing, and outdoor sports, which reflect their shared commitment to health and vitality. Kelly and Josh often share moments of their life together on social media, where fans appreciate their authenticity and connection. Their relationship is built on mutual respect, encouragement, and shared goals, reflecting a partnership grounded in both friendship and love.

Challenges and Overcoming Adversity

Throughout her journey, Kelly Berger has faced numerous challenges, from physical injuries to personal transitions. Her determination to overcome multiple ACL injuries, manage life changes after divorce, and still rise stronger showcases her unwavering spirit. Kelly’s ability to turn adversity into motivation has made her a source of inspiration for many athletes and fitness enthusiasts. Today, she advocates for mental health awareness, body positivity, and sustainable fitness habits, emphasizing that strength is as much mental as it is physical. Her story proves that setbacks can be the foundation for new beginnings.

Philanthropy and Community Involvement

Beyond her professional success, Kelly Berger dedicates her time to helping others. She mentors young female athletes, encouraging them to pursue sports with confidence and resilience. Through coaching and workshops, she promotes women’s empowerment and equal representation in athletics. She also supports community-based fitness programs that teach healthy lifestyles and self-care. Although Kelly keeps her charitable work relatively private, her lasting impact can be felt through the athletes she mentors and the communities she serves. Her efforts highlight her belief that true success comes from giving back and inspiring others to reach their potential.

Kelly Berger’s Influence and Legacy

Kelly Berger’s influence reaches far beyond the lacrosse field. As one of the few female athletes to successfully transition from sports to business, she has become a role model for women seeking to balance ambition and wellness. Her leadership in both athletics and entrepreneurship represents resilience, reinvention, and empowerment. Through Resistance Fitness, she continues to inspire people to embrace healthy lifestyles while building confidence and strength. Kelly’s journey demonstrates that with focus and courage, it’s possible to transform passion into purpose and leave a meaningful legacy in multiple industries.

Kelly Berger Net Worth and Financial Insights

While Kelly Berger’s exact net worth remains private, her income is believed to come from multiple sources, including her ownership of Resistance Fitness, personal training programs, and partnerships with fitness-related brands. Her entrepreneurial ventures and continued involvement in the wellness space likely provide her with steady and diversified earnings. However, Kelly has never focused on displaying wealth; instead, she values the positive impact her work creates. Her business success reflects smart management, passion for fitness, and commitment to building a supportive community rather than chasing financial recognition.

Conclusion

Kelly Berger’s life story is a remarkable example of passion, perseverance, and evolution. From her early days as a driven athlete in Maryland to her rise as a world-class lacrosse player and later as a fitness entrepreneur, she has shown what it means to adapt and thrive. Her journey from sports to wellness highlights her resilience, leadership, and ability to inspire others to pursue health and self-improvement. Today, Kelly Berger stands as a respected figure in both athletics and fitness—an example of strength, balance, and the power of continuous growth.

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