Averett Women’s Soccer Coach Dutchess on Growth and Goals
As the new season approaches, the Averett women’s soccer team is preparing for an exciting and transformative year. With a blend of experienced returners stepping into new roles, fresh talent, and a strong emphasis on growth and unity, this year’s squad is ready to push for success. We caught up with Head Coach and Averett alumnus Colton Dutchess to get an inside look at the team’s preparation, leadership development, goals, and strategies that will define the season.
The foundation of the Averett women’s soccer team’s preparations revolves around building a culture based on effort, intensity, and attitude.
“We’ve been focusing on raising our work rate and setting a new standard for what it means to be committed both on and off the field,” Dutchess explained.
While physical conditioning and tactical work are important, Dutchess stressed that the team’s mentality and leadership are just as critical to sustained success.
“Our team is more than just players; we’re a family. Leadership in all its forms will be vital this season,” Dutchess noted.
The team’s success will hinge on players stepping up into leadership roles and embracing responsibility. Dutchess emphasized that leadership comes in many shapes.
“Everyone can be a leader in some way—whether that’s setting an example through hard work or helping guide teammates during games,” Dutchess said.
This season, the team is also experimenting with a new formation that stresses teamwork and organization.
“We’ve tested a new formation early on that puts a huge emphasis on working as a unit and staying organized,” Dutchess shared. “I still want to play a possession-based style, letting the ball do the work while giving players freedom to be creative in attack.”
When asked about the team’s biggest areas of improvement, Dutchess highlighted the players’ mindset.
“The mentality they’ve come in with this year has really impressed me,” he said. “With many players stepping into new roles, both returners and newcomers have embraced the challenge head-on and created a new standard for work ethic. I’m very proud of this group so far.”
The goals for the season go beyond wins and losses.
“A big focus is on continuous progression,” Dutchess explained. “Whether it’s player and team development on the field or academic growth off it, we want to see steady improvement throughout the year. Of course, we also want to make it back to the playoffs.”
Creating a lasting culture is central to Dutchess’s vision.
“We’re building something for the future—a culture that lasts and feels like family,” he said. “We constantly emphasize hard work and unity. I want this team to be fully invested in our goals and to give 100% in everything they do. That starts with our core values: effort, intensity, and attitude. These are things the players can control in every aspect of their lives.”
Keeping the team motivated through the ups and downs of a long season is another key priority.
“Motivation can come from many places—the coach, a teammate, or within the player themselves,” Dutchess said. “My job is to foster a loyal, steadfast environment where the team supports each other through tough times and celebrates victories together. No matter how the season unfolds, the players need to know I always believe in them and their potential.”
With renewed purpose, the Averett women’s soccer team is ready to take on the challenges of the season. From experienced leaders to new voices bringing fresh energy, this team has the talent, leadership, and mindset to succeed. As the season progresses, all eyes will be on their ability to embody the core values, adapt to obstacles, and work together toward their goals.
