Averett University Football

Averett University, located in Danville, Virginia, has a rich athletic history, with its football program being a significant part of the institution's sporting identity. The Averett University football team, also known as the Averett Cougars, competes in the NCAA Division III and is a member of the USA South Athletic Conference. With a strong commitment to academic excellence and athletic prowess, the Cougars have established themselves as a formidable force in collegiate football.

History of Averett University Football

The Averett University football program was established in 1909, with the team playing its first game against the University of North Carolina. Over the years, the Cougars have experienced periods of success, including conference championships and playoff appearances. The team has also produced several notable alumni, including players who have gone on to compete at the professional level. The Cougars’ home stadium, Bluefield Stadium, has been their home since 1962 and has a seating capacity of approximately 4,000 spectators. The stadium has undergone several renovations, including the installation of a new turf field in 2015.

Conference Affiliations and Championships

Averett University has been a member of several athletic conferences throughout its history, including the Atlantic Central Football Conference and the USA South Athletic Conference. The Cougars have won several conference championships, including the 2016 USA South Athletic Conference championship. The team’s success can be attributed to its strong recruiting efforts, which focus on attracting talented student-athletes from the region. The Cougars’ coaching staff, led by head coach James Hanson, has also played a significant role in the team’s success, with a focus on developing players both on and off the field.

Notable Players and Alumni

The Averett University football program has produced several notable players and alumni, including Justin Henderson, who played in the Canadian Football League, and Eric Thornton, who played in the Arena Football League. The team has also had several players earn All-American honors, including Tyler Evans, who was named a First-Team All-American in 2016. The Cougars’ alumni have gone on to achieve success in a variety of fields, including coaching, sports management, and business.

Coaching Staff and Facilities

The Averett University football team is led by a experienced coaching staff, including head coach James Hanson and defensive coordinator Robert Jones. The team’s facilities, including Bluefield Stadium and the Averett University Athletic Complex, provide players with a state-of-the-art environment to train and compete. The team’s strength and conditioning program, led by Director of Strength and Conditioning, Michael Davis, plays a critical role in the team’s success, with a focus on developing players’ physical and mental toughness.

• The Averett University football team has a strong commitment to community service, with players participating in various charitable events and activities throughout the year.
• The team's academic support program, which includes tutoring and academic advising, helps players achieve their academic goals and maintain eligibility.
• The Cougars' athletic training staff, led by Athletic Trainer, Emily Wilson, provides players with top-notch medical care and support.