Avery Patterson Bio
Avery Jean Patterson (born June 14, 2002) is an American professional soccer player who plays as a right back, wingback, or winger for the Houston Dash of the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) and the United States national team. Patterson played college soccer for the North Carolina Tar Heels and was selected by the Dash in the second round of the 2024 NWSL Draft.
Early Life and Background
Born and raised in Jacksonville, Florida, Avery Patterson began playing soccer at age four. Initially a central midfielder, she played club soccer for Florida Elite Soccer Academy and was named the ECNL Southeast Player of the Year in 2018. Patterson attended the Bolles School, where she won three consecutive FHSAA championships from 2018 to 2020. She committed to play college soccer at the University of North Carolina as a sophomore and also participated in varsity cross country and track during her high school years.
Path to Soccer
Patterson missed her freshman regular season with the North Carolina Tar Heels due to injury in fall 2020. However, in the spring season, she started seven games at center back, helping her team reach the NCAA tournament semifinals. In her sophomore season in 2021, she transitioned to outside back, scoring five goals and providing three assists in 17 games. By her junior year in 2022, she moved to right wing, starting all 26 games and leading the team with 13 goals and eight assists, earning second-team All-ACC honors.
Avery Patterson Career
Early Career (2021-2023)
Patterson’s college career at the North Carolina Tar Heels was marked by significant achievements. After her injury in 2020, she rebounded to become a key player, leading her team in scoring during her junior year and earning accolades such as first-team All-ACC and third-team All-American honors in her senior season in 2023. She played a pivotal role in her team’s success, including a run to the NCAA championship game.
Breakthrough (2024-Present)
In 2024, Patterson was selected by the Houston Dash with the 19th overall pick in the NWSL Draft. She signed a three-year contract and made her professional debut on March 16, 2024, starting in a match against the North Carolina Courage. Throughout her rookie season, she played multiple positions and was recognized as the club’s Newcomer of the Year after finishing with one goal and two assists in 28 appearances.
In the 2025 season, Patterson solidified her position as a right back, starting in 22 games and scoring three goals. Her performance earned her nominations for NWSL Defender of the Year and recognition as the club’s Most Valuable Player. Additionally, she was named to the 2025 NWSL Best XI, highlighting her impact in the league.
Notable Works and Milestones
Patterson’s signature work includes her contributions to the Houston Dash and her impressive college career at the North Carolina Tar Heels. She has received multiple awards, including Most Valuable Player and NWSL Best XI in 2025, establishing herself as a rising star in women’s soccer.
Avery Patterson Award Nominations
Avery Patterson has received several nominations throughout her career, including recognition for NWSL Defender of the Year in 2025.
Avery Patterson Awards Won
Patterson has won multiple awards, including Most Valuable Player and NWSL Best XI in 2025, showcasing her talent and contributions to her team.
| Award | Wins | Year |
|---|---|---|
| Most Valuable Player | 1 | 2025 |
| NWSL Best XI | 1 | 2025 |
| Newcomer of the Year | 1 |
Avery Patterson Family
Avery Patterson is the daughter of Lori and Andrew Patterson. Her family has a strong background in sports, particularly American football, with her father playing sprint football for the Navy and a great uncle, Tom Mack, being inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
Personal Life
Details about Patterson’s personal life are limited, but she has a close-knit family that has supported her athletic endeavors. Her background in sports has played a significant role in shaping her career as a professional soccer player.
