Wayne State University Athletics

UPDATED Dec. 12, 2025

Wayne State University head women's soccer coach Doug Steinard has announced the hiring of Avery Fenchel as an assistant coach and director of operations for the inaugural season of the program this fall.

"We are excited to welcome Avery Fenchel to our staff as our Assistant Coach and Director of Operations," commented Steinard. "Avery brings an infectious energy and a deep passion for the game that will elevate every aspect of our program. Her playing career speaks for itself, shown by school records, multiple championships and great attitude. She aligns perfectly with the standards we are building.

"With strong local roots, Avery has a deep understanding of the talent in our area and will play a vital role in strengthening our recruiting efforts. In addition, her experience in operations will be incredibly valuable as we continue building the foundation of our new program. Avery’s combination of on-field expertise and organizational skills makes her a tremendous addition, and we are thrilled to have her joining our staff.

Fenchel spent this past fall as an assistant coach at Youngstown State helping the Penguins to a 6-2-2 Horizon League record.

"I'm excited to join the Wayne State women's soccer coaching staff for the team's inaugural season and look forward to helping build the foundation for this new program," remarked Fenchel.  "I want to thank Doug for this opportunity, and I can't wait to begin working with our student-athletes, coaches, and athletic department."

During her playing career at Ball State (2020-24), Fenchel became BSU's all-time leading goal scorer with 30, and was a two-time All-Mid-American Conference selection.  She aided in the Cardinals notching 33 victories during her career.  Fenchel appeared in 74 games for Ball State, making 51 starts and finished with 64 points.

In her final playing seasons (2024) as a graduate student, Fenchel tallied 15 points on six goals and three assists.  
As a senior in 2023, she garnered First Team All-MAC and Academic All-MAC recognition, while also being named to the CSC Academic All-District Team.  A MAC Medal of Excellence recipient, she totaled 11 goals, including three game-winning goals, while starting 17 matches.

Fenchel led the Cardinals with 11 goals and 22 points as a junior in 2022 and was named First Team All-MAC and Academic All-MAC.

She earned Academic All-MAC honors in 2021 after appearing in 13 matches and tallying four points on two goals.

Fenchel received a bachelor's degree in Exercise Science (pre-physical therapy) from Ball State, along with a certificate of business administration from BSU.  She is currently pursuing an MBA at Youngstown State.

Prior to her collegiate career, Fenchel was a four-year letterwinner at Novi High School for coach Todd Pheiffer.  An Allstate Insurance All-American, All-State Dream Team and United Soccer Coach All-North Region selection as a junior.  Her senior season was cancelled due to COVID.  In 2019, the Wildcats compiled a 26-0-1 record and won the MHSAA Division 1 state title for the second consecutive year.  Fenchel totaled 60 goals and 28 assists during her prep career.  She played club soccer for the Michigan Jaguars and coach Paul Tinnion helping the squad win State Cup Championships in 2017 and 2019.

Fenchel was the 2019-20 Michigan Gatorade Player of the Year honor for her outstanding athletic performance, academics (4.02 GPA), and leadership.

Avery is the daughter of Ken and Lisa Fenchel.