Off season does not necessarily mean time off for the Dixie State University athletics department.
The official Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference season has concluded for fall sports, but does not mean the teams are done training, recruiting or restructuring.
The women’s soccer team concluded its season in early November then jumped into recruiting by participating in the 2018 National Signing Day where they signed 11 players for next season.
Sydney Roberts, a high school senior from Lehi, is one of the 11 and has already had the opportunity to participate in activities with her new team. On Dec. 15 women’s soccer will host a training camp for girls 14-19, and Roberts plans to attend as part of her preparation for next season.
“The camp will let me meet many of my future teammates and coach,” Roberts said. “I’ll hopefully see how they act on and off the field.”
Head coach Gerry Lucey sees nothing but success and opportunity as he prepares to enter a second RMAC season with an expanded team.
“This is a very exciting time for the team, re-branding in a way,” Lucey said. “I’m honored and humbled to be the head coach for DSU and can’t wait to train the new players.”
DSU football will participate in physical training and restructuring with a new head coach. Former head coach Shay McClure’s coaching contract was not renewed for the future season.
Director of Athletics Jason Boothe announced the following at the conclusion of the season:”I am very proud of how the team performed on the field this year; however, I am responsible for ensuring that all facets of all programs are meeting the expectations set forth since the conclusion of last season. We will quickly begin the search for our next head coach to ensure continuity and continued momentum for the team.”
This announcement left DSU football with no head coach, minimal staff and fewer players. During this off season, players will need to be prepared for an all new coach and coaching technique.