By: Isabel Smith ~Staff Writer~
Xavier University Athletic Director Greg Christopher announced Kacey White as the new women’s soccer head coach in December.
White replaces former head coach Woody Sherwood, who stepped down following the 2016 season after six years at the helm.
White brings an impressive resume to the job, as she is a former member of the United States Women’s National Team.
During her collegiate career at the University of North Carolina, White was a starting midfielder when the Tar Heels won the College Cup. She also earned honors as a two-time NCAA All-American in 2004 and 2005.
She graduated from the University of North Carolina with a bachelor’s degree in exercise sports science and a minor in coaching.
Following graduation, White played professionally both in the United States and abroad. She also earned a spot on the USWNT for four years.
White worked as a coach at a number of schools at the college level, including serving as the head coach at Wisconsin-Green Bay and as an assistant coach at Oklahoma, Texas Tech and Southern Methodist.
Most recently, White comes from a job as the Director of Coaching for the Capital Area Soccer League in North Carolina for the U-15 to U-18 girls’ programs. She also coached in the Olympic Development program.
As the head coach at Wisconsin-Green Bay, White led the Phoenixes to an 11-7- 2 record in 2014. The 11 wins marked a seven-win increase from 2013 and the team’s highest win total since 1993.
The team also earned a 3.36 GPA under her leadership. Additionally, White coached the Phoenixes through their first post-season win since 2004 and to the Horizon League Tournament semifinals. White also helped the team become more effecient on offense, as Wisconsin-Green Bay scored 24 more goals in 2014 than in 2013.
“Coach White is very hungry for us to succeed, and I feel we are getting better every day due to the rigorous practices, fitness testing and weight training,” freshman midfielder Addy Smythe said. “I’m very excited for next fall, and I feel lucky we have someone as experienced and decorated as Kacey taking.
