From 1977 to 1995 he played 346 matches for Rosenborg in the Norwegian top league, which was a national record at the time he retired and until By Rise was surpassed by former teammate Roar Strand.
He was also a member of the Norwegian team competing at the 1984 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles, California.
However, despite winning for a 13th consecutive season in 2004, the club had a relatively poor season by its high domestic standards, as it finished level on points and goal difference with Vålerenga, winning the title on goals scored.
By Rise was sacked November 2004 by the club and worked for NRK radio station P1 as managing editor from 1 February 2005.
In April 2014 he signed a contract for the final 4 games to try Danish team Aarhus Gymnastikforening avoid relegation.