The Truckee Meadows Community College Women's Soccer program is officially entering a new chapter as Debs Brereton steps into her role as Head Coach. After spending the past year closely involved in the program, Brereton now takes the reins with a clear vision, deep gratitude, and a passion for building something special.
Official start of a New Era
For Brereton, becoming Head Coach is more than just a title change—it's a meaningful milestone.
"It's a very privilege indeed," she shared. "I love this community and being able to coach this team in a very unique way, helping players use TMCC as a stepping stone to wherever they're going to be in life."
Her connection to the Reno community and the TMCC campus has grown naturally over time, making this transition feel both exciting and authentic. What began as a willingness to help has now evolved into full leadership of the program.
Coaching Background & Journey
Brereton's coaching journey began nearly 25 years ago. After earning a soccer scholarship in the United States, she quickly realized her future would remain in the game. "After my first semester, I knew I'd want to stay in America and coach," she explained.
Her career includes 15 years at the Division I level in NCAA college programs, holding positions at Middle Tennessee State University, East Tennessee State University, and Idaho State University. From graduate assistant to associate head coach, she has "worn every single hat," gaining experience in recruiting, player development, administration, and leadership.
Most recently, she served as Director of Coaching at Sierra Surf, working closely with youth athletes in Northern Nevada. Those years of varied experience have shaped her into a coach who values both structure and empathy, or in other words, competitiveness balanced with care.
Why TMCC?
Coach Deb's path to TMCC began through her local club connections. "I learned about TMCC through my oldest players," she said. Curious and eager to get involved, she reached out to then-Head Coach Geoff Hawkins to offer assistance.
"I've come to love it, love the players, love the facility," she shared. What started as a helping role quickly became something deeper. While she admits being a long-term head coach "would've been the dream," she didn't expect the opportunity to come so soon. When the timing aligned and leadership transitioned, it just felt right.
Her decision reflects the alignment between her values and the direction of TMCC Athletics as a genuine belief in what the program can become.
Coaching Philosophy and Leadership Style
At the core of Brereton's philosophy is trust. "I want to be a leader that they can trust and respect," she said.
She envisions a player-driven program where student-athletes take ownership of their experience. "I'm in their corner…I want this to be a player's program. I'm just here to help guide them."
Rather than controlling every detail, Brereton emphasizes empowerment and autonomy. She believes players perform best when they feel supported and confident. Enjoyment also plays a central role. "You play soccer because you enjoy it," she said. "I want them to come here and enjoy playing a very fun brand of soccer."
Her leadership style blends encouragement with accountability. Pushing athletes to grow while standing beside them through both successes and setbacks.
Building Culture and Expectations
Culture is where Brereton plans to make an immediate impact. She speaks often about family and connection, wanting the program to feel close-knit and unified. "I really want to give the whole family aspect, very close," she explained, emphasizing opportunities for players to bond outside of training and competition.
At the same time, expectations will remain high. "My whole goal is to create standards of expectation of having a standard of excellence," she said. Effort, professionalism, and respect, on and off the field, define the program.
She also reminds players that soccer is part of a bigger journey. "Everyone is going to be professional in something else," she noted, reinforcing that growth extends beyond the pitch.
Player Development and Growth
Brereton's approach to development is holistic. She views TMCC as a launching point academically, athletically, and personally.
"You're here because you're going to get an education to get you to where you're going in life," she emphasized. She highlighted TMCC's strong academic environment, praising the wonderful academic staff and committed professors who support student-athletes.
Whether players aim to transfer to four-year programs or simply maximize their two years in Reno, her goal is to help them reach their full potential, building confidence, maturity, and opportunity along the way.
Vision for the Program
Looking ahead, Brereton sees both immediate and long-term growth. She credits last season's squad for establishing a strong work ethic. "The level of effort and the intensity that the players provided in the Fall was there," she said.
Her next step is refining that foundation. She plans to match that intensity with more structure and organization, implementing a system that allows individual talents to flourish within a collective identity.
Success, for Brereton, will not be measured solely by wins and losses, but by visible growth, consistency, and unity.
Preparing for the Upcoming Season
As preparations begin, Brereton is focused on clarity and identity. "It's my job as the head coach to put them all in the best system that's going to help promote the brand of soccer we want to play," she explained.
Training sessions will emphasize tactical organization, communication, and disciplined intensity. She aims to create a team that competes fearlessly while staying connected and composed.
What excites her the most? The potential within the current group, as these athletes are ready to buy in, grow, and represent TMCC with pride.
Message to Players, Recruits and Fans
To returning players, Brereton's message centers on belief and support. She wants them to know she is invested, not just in their performance, but in their overall experience.
For prospective student-athletes, TMCC offers opportunities such as competitive soccer, academic excellence, and a pathway forward. And for the Reno community and TMCC supporters, she promises a team that reflects heart, effort, and unity.
Looking Ahead
As Debs Brereton officially begins her tenure as Head Coach, the energy surrounding TMCC Women's Soccer feels renewed. With decades of experience, strong local ties, and a player-first mentality, she is ready to guide the program into its next chapter.
The vision is clear: build trust, establish excellence, and create an environment where student-athletes thrive, both on the field and beyond.
