DANVILLE, Va. — Averett University football head coach Patrick Henry announced he will accept a new position outside of athletics within the university following the completion of the Cougars' season.

Averett will immediately begin a national search for its next football head coach.

After six seasons as head coach and 14 seasons overall with the Cougars' football program, Henry has been tapped by Averett President Dr. Thomas Powell to serve as the university's new director of summer school. Henry will continue to coach the Cougars through the final two games of the season before transitioning to his new role.

"Coach Henry has served Averett University with distinction," Powell said. "I am thrilled that he has agreed to lead our summer school programs. I am confident that Coach Henry will extend our summer school offerings so we can better serve our students and our Dan River region."

Henry joined the Averett football program in 2012 as an assistant coach and was promoted to head coach in March 2020. He guided the program through the COVID-19 pandemic and its transition to the Old Dominion Athletic Conference. During his tenure as head coach, Henry produced one D3football.com All-America First Team selection, six all-region selections, one ODAC Defensive Player of the Year, one ODAC Defensive Rookie of the Year, 22 all-conference selections and numerous other accolades. 

"It has been an incredible honor and privilege to serve as the football head coach at Averett University," Henry said. "Since arriving on Feb. 1, 2012, Averett has truly been my home. It's where my children were born and where I've had the opportunity to work with so many outstanding student-athletes and coaches. I cannot thank the university enough, and I am especially grateful to Dr. Powell for the new opportunity that lies ahead — one that is the right step for me and my family at this time. To all the former and current players and coaches, thank you for your hard work, commitment and the memories we've built together."

In addition to his leadership with the football program, Henry has been active in the Averett community, previously serving on staff council — including one year as president — and on various academic, advising and retention committees.

"We are grateful for Coach Henry's dedication to the Averett football program for nearly a decade and a half," Averett Director of Athletics Danny Miller said. "We look forward to seeing the continued impact he will make on our campus in this new role."