News Summary
Margueritte Bates takes over as the new head coach of the University of Texas women’s soccer program, aiming to revitalize it after a tough season. Following a challenging 4-12-1 record, Bates brings a successful coaching history from UCLA, where she won a national championship. Her plan includes leveraging Texas’s talent pool and resources to enhance the team’s competitiveness. Bates’s appointment marks a strategic move to restore the program’s past glory and engage the community positively.
Margueritte Bates Takes Helm of Texas Women’s Soccer
Former UCLA coach aims to revitalize program after challenging season
Houston, TX — Margueritte Bates has been appointed as the new head coach of the University of Texas women’s soccer program following a noteworthy tenure at UCLA. Bates, who made waves nationally by leading UCLA to the NCAA Division I Women’s Soccer Championship in 2022, aims to leverage her experience to rejuvenate the Longhorns, setting ambitious goals for the future as Texas strives to enhance its competitiveness in women’s soccer.
The hiring comes on the heels of significant changes within the Texas women’s soccer program, which completed the 2025 season with a dismal 4-12-1 record, a performance marked as the worst in school history. Bates replaces Ange Kelly, who led the team for 14 years, but faced challenges in achieving consistency during postseason play. With Bates at the helm, there is renewed hope that the program can reclaim its competitive edge.
Bates’ Proven Track Record
During her time at UCLA, Bates compiled an impressive overall record of 67-13-9, steering the Bruins to two Pac-12 championships and four consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances. Her ability to build championship-caliber programs is apparent, as she became the first rookie head coach to win the NCAA Division I Women’s Soccer Championship in 2022. Notably, her coaching career also includes a successful stint as an assistant coach at Stanford University, where she played an integral role in securing two NCAA Championships and contributing to five straight Pac-12 titles.
New Directions for Texas Women’s Soccer
With Bates assuming leadership, there is a strong focus on enhancing the Texas women’s soccer program’s performance and stability. The resources and robust support system at Texas have been emphasized as major advantages, with Bates expressing excitement about utilizing the state’s extensive talent pool. Bates has identified Texas and California as regions capable of providing the program with the components necessary to assemble a formidable team.
Historical Context and Future Goals
The Texas women’s soccer program has had its share of ups and downs. Notably, it achieved a Southeastern Conference tournament championship in 2024 under Kelly’s tutelage, affirming its potential for success. However, the recent challenges in maintaining consistency and achieving favorable postseason results have prompted a need for change. Bates’ appointment represents a strategic pivot aimed at restoring the program’s legacy and competitiveness.
Community and Economic Impact
The women’s soccer program at Texas not only serves the university but also has a substantial impact on the broader Houston community. Successful collegiate sports programs create opportunities for local engagement and contribute to the regional economy. The potential revitalization of the Longhorns under Bates could strengthen community ties, enhance the local sporting culture, and inspire youth athletes across the state.
Looking Ahead
As Margueritte Bates steps into her new role, the Texas women’s soccer program stands at a crossroad with much potential for growth and success. Her commitment to developing student-athletes, fostering a championship mentality, and leveraging the abundant resources available positions the program for a promising future. College sports not only cultivate athletic skills but also build leadership and community engagement, essentials for both student-athletes and fans alike.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Recent Performance | Finished the 2025 season with a 4-12-1 record, the worst in school history. |
| Historical Success | Secured a Southeastern Conference tournament championship in 2024. |
| Coaching Leadership | Margueritte Bates appointed as new head coach, replacing Ange Kelly. |
| Resource Availability | Program described as having abundant resources and support, likened to “Disneyland”. |
| Talent Pool | State of Texas recognized as a rich source of soccer talent, with potential to assemble a national team from local players. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who is Margueritte Bates?
Margueritte Bates is the new head coach of the University of Texas women’s soccer team. She previously served as the head coach at UCLA, where she led the Bruins to the NCAA Division I Women’s Soccer Championship in 2022.
What is Bates’ coaching history?
Bates compiled a 67-13-9 record over four seasons at UCLA, guiding the Bruins to two Pac-12 championships and four consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances. Prior to UCLA, she was an assistant coach at Stanford University from 2015 to 2021, contributing to two NCAA Championships and five straight Pac-12 titles.
Why was Ange Kelly dismissed as head coach?
Ange Kelly was dismissed after 14 years as head coach at Texas. Under her leadership, the Longhorns secured three conference titles, including the school’s first Southeastern Conference title in 2024, but faced challenges in achieving consistent postseason success.
What is the current state of the Texas women’s soccer program?
The Texas women’s soccer team finished the 2025 season with a 4-12-1 record, the worst in school history. However, the program has a history of success, including a Southeastern Conference tournament championship in 2024.
What are Bates’ plans for the Texas program?
Bates has expressed enthusiasm about the resources and support available at Texas, likening the environment to “Disneyland.” She highlighted the state’s rich talent pool, noting that a coach could assemble a national team from players in Texas and California alone.
What is Bates’ coaching philosophy?
Bates is known for her ability to develop student-athletes and build championship-caliber programs. She aims to elevate the Texas women’s soccer program to new heights by leveraging the resources and talent available.
What are Bates’ achievements as a coach?
Bates became the first rookie head coach to win the NCAA Division I Women’s Soccer Championship in 2022. She also led UCLA to two Pac-12 championships and four consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances.
What is Bates’ background as a player?
Bates was a four-year starter at Santa Clara University from 2008 to 2011, playing midfield and center back. She served as team captain for two years and was a WCC All-Academic Team member.
What is Bates’ educational background?
Bates graduated from Santa Clara University with a major in psychology and minors in public health and Spanish in 2012. In 2020, she earned a master’s degree in coaching and athletic administration from Concordia University, Irvine.
Is Bates the first Asian-American head coach in NCAA women’s soccer?
Bates is one of three Asian-American women currently serving as a head coach for an NCAA women’s soccer team.
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