Chicago Fire FC today announced that the Club has signed defender Diego Konincks (pronounced: CONE-inks) to an MLS NEXT Pro contract through the 2024 season. Financial details were not disclosed.
Konincks, 23, joins Chicago Fire FC II after spending last season with Saint Louis University at the collegiate level. In his one season with the Billikens, he appeared in every game for Saint Louis, making 17 appearances (17 starts) and recording four goals in 2023 while guarding the backline. He anchored the backline that only averaged a goal against per game, one of the strongest in the Atlantic-10 Conference.
“We are very happy to have Diego in Chicago as part of Chicago Fire II,” said Chicago Fire II General Manager Alex Boler. “Diego not only helps to solidify our backline but, being from the Netherlands and having played college soccer in the U.S., he also brings a variety of experience. We’re excited to benefit from his leadership and to start off his professional career in our club.”
Prior to his lone season at Saint Louis University, Konincks was a three-year starter with the Campbell University Camels of the Big South Conference. During his tenure with the Camels, Konincks appeared in every possible match since his arrival in his sophomore season. Appearing in 50 matches over three seasons, Konincks scored seven goals and led the Camels to an 11-win season in 2022, and an appearance in the Big South Conference championship match. Additionally, in his senior season, he was awarded First Team All-Big South honors in his finest season as a Camel.
“Diego is a player who can make an impact on our team in many different ways,” said Chicago Fire II Head Coach Ludovic Taillandier. “He has a great mentality and knowledge of the game, and as a central defender he is capable of directing our backline and helping us to be a truly competitive team.”
A native of Montfoort, Netherlands, Konincks spent his freshman season at Midland University. Appearing and starting in all 20 matches, Konincks recorded three goals and six assists en route to being awarded Second-team All-Great Plains Athletic Conference honors.
Transaction: Chicago Fire FC II signs defender Diego Konincks to an MLS NEXT Pro contract through the 2024 season.
Name: Diego Konincks (pronounced: CONE-inks)
Position: Defender
Height: 6’2”
Weight: 185
Date of Birth: November 30, 2000
Hometown: Montfoort, Netherlands
Birthplace: Montfoort, Netherlands
Citizenship: Netherlands
Last Club: Saint Louis University (NCAA)
