UNC Greensboro (UNCG) head men's soccer coach Chris Rich has announced the addition of Peter Merritt to his staff as an assistant volunteer coach on Dec. 15, 2021.

Merritt joins the Spartan program from Averett University where he served as an assistant coach for two years.

"We are excited to add Peter to our coaching staff," Rich said. "He comes highly recommended after a successful stint with Averett. We know that he'll be a great asset to our players and program as we continue to take steps forward and compete for championships."

While pursuing a master's degree in business administration at Averett, he helped the program achieve back-to-back appearances in the USA South Conference Semifinals.  Merritt assisted the development of student-athletes on and off the field. He helped multiple student-athletes achieve All Conference honors as well as aiding in the overall Team GPA growth of 2.7 to 3.2.  

Merritt came to Averett following a four-year playing career at N.C. Wesleyan College from 2016-19. A center back, Merritt helped the Bishops win three USA South regular season crowns, two conference tournament titles and make two NCAA Tournament appearances. He was a three-time USA South Academic All-Conference performer.

In addition to his collegiate playing career, Merritt has coached multiple youth and ID camps at multiple levels.

A native of Huntersville, North Carolina, Merritt graduated from N.C. Wesleyan in 2019 with a degree in business administration and marketing. 

"I am excited and thankful for this opportunity to be joining this prestigious program," Merritt said. "I look forward to helping bring more success to the program."