Kennedy Dunnings Named Interim Head Women's Soccer Coach

SPARTANBURG, S.C. – Spartanburg Methodist College head women’s soccer coach Debbie Pekel has announced her resignation, effective immediately. In 2025, she helped lead the SMC women’s soccer program to a berth in the Appalachian Athletic Conference Women’s Soccer Tournament. Twelve women’s soccer student-athletes were named to the AAC All-Academic Team, and sophomore goalkeeper Ava Wilson earned Second Team All-Conference honors. In addition, three members of the team were selected to the College Sports Communicators Academic All-District Team.

“Coach Pekel’s impact goes far beyond wins and losses,” said SMC Athletic Director Megan Aiello. “She poured belief, discipline, and heart into our women’s soccer program, and our student-athletes are better because of her. We are truly grateful for the time and passion she invested here, and we look forward to cheering her on as her journey continues.”

Spartanburg Methodist College has named assistant coach Kennedy Dunnings as interim head coach.

“Coach Dunnings has earned the trust and respect of our student-athletes and is well-positioned to guide this program forward,” Aiello said. “Her understanding of our culture, her connection with the team, and her commitment to developing young women make her a strong leader for this transition. We are confident she will continue to build on the foundation of our women’s soccer program.”

“I am beyond blessed to have the opportunity to step into this role and at a school I’ve already grown to love,” Dunnings said. “Thank you, Coach Debbie (Pekel), for your mentorship along the way and thank you to Megan (Aiello) and her staff for having faith in me as a leader. I’m ready to serve our team and community. Now, let’s grind!”