The long-standing head coach of the Averett Men’s soccer team, Phillip Wilson, has left his position. Before speculating on who will take charge of the team, the players have decided to share their perspective on the situation.

Despite the name of the future head coach still being in the air, the players have taken the time to reminisce on their time under Coach Wilson.

Joshua Garcia, the junior from Sanford, N.C., said, “We all had a great time under him,” Garcia said, “things like making the playoffs and playing against D1 teams are great, but it’s the small things. The constant fist bump as we are getting ready for practice or lift, and the pre-game pep talks.”

Will Davis, the junior from Palmyra, Va, said, “He was the coach who brought me in, led us to the playoffs, and was the coach when I got my first goal,” Davis said, “He led us through the ups and downs. So, I can speak on behalf of all of us when I say that we appreciate the time, effort, and commitment he gave us.”

There are many positive memories, but now the players will be looking ahead. For Garcia and Davis, it will be their last hoorah as they will be seniors in the upcoming season.

Garcia said, “Us seniors will do everything we can to make the most out of the upcoming season,” Garcia said, “We have some great memories, but we have nothing to lose now. No matter who the next coach will be, we will give our all to the staff, our teammates, and the school.”

Davis said, “We want to go a step further than we did last year,” Davis said, “We were so close, yet so far. We have the ability, we just need to put it to use, and that starts now. We want to give our next coach the best foundations possible going into pre-season.”

From the players point of view, even though Coach Wilson will not lead the team next season, there is still room for optimism. After being so close to the playoffs last year, the players know that it’s all in their hands.

The schedule for the 2026 season is yet to be announced.