Kate Dirkse

Kate Dirkse is entering her second season as an assistant coach with the University of South Alabama women’s soccer program. In her first year on staff, she played an important role in helping the Jaguars secure the No. 2 seed in the 2024 Sun Belt Conference Tournament. Dirkse also contributed to the development of All-Conference selections Irene Campo and Kate Nicolson, supporting a squad that captured the Sun Belt West Division title and posted a strong overall campaign under head coach Chris Hennessey. Prior to transitioning into coaching, Dirkse enjoyed a decorated playing career at Lee University, where she competed for four-and-a-half seasons under Hennessey. A two-time All-American and two-time Academic All-American, she was named the 2023 Conference Defensive Player of the Year and served as team captain for three seasons. Her leadership and defensive consistency were central to Lee’s national success during her tenure. Now on the sidelines, Dirkse brings firsthand championship experience, strong leadership qualities, and a commitment to student-athlete development as she mentors the next generation of Jaguar players both on and off the field.