CHICO, Calif. – A new era of Chico State women's soccer begins as Executive Director of Athletics Eric Coleman announced the appointment of Halle Meadows as the program's next head women's soccer coach, marking just the third head coach in the Wildcats' 43-year history.
Meadows will begin her position March 1.
"Throughout our interview process, Halle consistently separated herself through her energy, authenticity, and clear vision for our women's soccer program," Coleman said. "Hearing Kim say that Halle reminds her of her younger self says a lot, not just as a coach, but about the leader she is becoming. Halle embodies the values, passion, and competitive spirit that have defined this program for decades, and we are thrilled to welcome her as our next head coach."
Meadows succeeds Kim Sutton, who is retiring after 25 seasons at the helm of the Chico State women's soccer program, leaving behind a legacy of sustained success and leadership both on and off the field. Sutton will remain with the program until her retirement begins March 17.
"It is a true honor to follow Kim Sutton and be named the next head women's soccer coach at Chico State University," Meadows said. "What she has done for the program in the last 25 years, both on and off the field, is incredible and inspiring. I am extremely grateful for this opportunity to return to California and be a part of such a special university, and I feel an enormous sense of pride stepping into this role. Being able to represent a place with such spirit and togetherness is an incredible privilege.
"I want to express extreme gratitude to Director Coleman for his support and belief in me to lead this program," Meadows added. "Throughout the process, I was thoroughly impressed by the people, the culture and the clear vision of the entire athletics department under Eric's leadership. I am thrilled and eager to become a part of the Wildcat family."
Meadows arrives in Chico after serving as the head women's soccer coach at Bushnell University, where she was hired in January 2023. In her first season with the Beacons, Meadows led the program back to the Cascade Collegiate Conference Tournament for the first time in seven years. Her second season saw continued growth, including the largest roster in program history with nearly 40 student-athletes, and by her third year at the helm the Beacons finished fifth out of 13 in the conference, the highest placing in program history.
Prior to Bushnell, Meadows spent two seasons at Southwestern Oregon Community College, including one as head coach of the Lakers. During the 2022 season, she led SWOCC to a 7-4-2 overall record and a second-place league finish, closing the year on a 7-0-2 run. Her efforts earned her NWAC Southern Region Coach of the Year honors.
In addition to her collegiate coaching experience, Meadows has coached with Lane United Football Club in the USL W League since 2023. After beginning as an assistant coach, she was elevated to head coach in 2025. She has also held coaching and leadership roles with Eugene Metro FC's Girls Academy, South Valley Surf in Bakersfield, and Frontier High School, where she served as varsity coach and program director.
Meadows earned both her undergraduate degree in applied exercise science and her master's degree in kinesiology from Cal State Bakersfield. She holds a U.S. Soccer 'C' License and brings additional experience in the classroom, having taught sports nutrition, basic nutrition and exercise science courses at the collegiate level.
