John Peterson
John Peterson
Title: Head Women's Soccer Coach
Phone: 802-777-9914
Email: norm.peterson@vermontstate.edu

Coach Norm is at the helm of the Vermont State University Johnson Women’s Soccer Program, embarking on his third season leading the team into the highly anticipated 2023 season. With a proven track record of success and a passion for both athletic and academic growth, Coach Norm has already made his mark on the program and is poised to continue driving it to new heights.

In the 2022 season, Coach Norm orchestrated an impressive resurgence, guiding the Badgers back to the North Atlantic Conference playoffs for the first time in five years. This achievement underscored his ability to inspire and develop players, fostering a culture of dedication and determination within the team.

During his tenure at Johnson, Coach Norm's impact has been undeniable. Four of his players have earned well-deserved spots on end-of-season all-Conference teams, showcasing his knack for honing and showcasing talent. Furthermore, two of his players have been recognized with weekly conference player-of-the-week awards, a testament to his commitment to nurturing individual growth and excellence.

But Coach Norm's influence extends beyond the pitch. His emphasis on academic excellence has led to remarkable achievements off the field as well. The 2022 team saw an impressive nine players named to the All-Conference Academic team, reinforcing the notion that success in the classroom is just as important as success on the field. Notably, the team clinched the award for the highest team GPA on campus, solidifying their dedication to achieving greatness in all aspects of their student-athlete experience.

Beyond his role as a coach, Coach Norm wears another hat as a dedicated Student Success Advisor on the Johnson campus. With an unwavering commitment to the holistic development of his athletes, he positions them for triumph both on and off the field. His ethos revolves around nurturing a culture of dedication, self-improvement, and collaboration, ensuring that his student-athletes evolve into their best selves.

Coach Norm's philosophy is succinctly captured in his own words, "Whether you are on a soccer team, in a group at work, or in your family life, I believe you should focus on making the place around you better. Great teams are filled with great teammates, so model the behavior you want to see. We are constantly trying to raise the standards for ourselves – in our lives and in our play. I expect the same for all the Student Athletes involved in the Women’s Soccer Program at Johnson."

Rooted in Central Massachusetts, Coach Norm's journey has been a diverse one. He spent twelve years working in the vibrant city of Boston before venturing to Bermuda, where he immersed himself in new experiences for eight years. In 2014, he found his home in Vermont, bringing with him a wealth of knowledge and a deep passion for athletics and education.

Coach Norm is a proud alumnus of Bryant University, where he earned a Bachelor’s of Science in Finance. His commitment to continuous growth led him to pursue a Master’s Degree in Business Administration from the prestigious Carroll School of Management at Boston College.

His dedication to excellence is further underlined by his coaching licenses from the US Soccer Federation and United Soccer Coaching Association. These certifications reflect his commitment to staying at the forefront of coaching methodologies, ensuring that he provides his players with the best possible guidance.

Off the field, Coach Norm finds joy in his family life, residing in Waterbury, Vermont, with his wife, two children, two adopted dogs, and a feline companion who adopted them. This strong support system undoubtedly fuels his drive to create a similar sense of camaraderie and unity within his team.

As Coach Norm embarks on his third season as the head of the Vermont State University Johnson Women’s Soccer Program, his unwavering commitment to excellence, both in the athletic arena and in the classroom, promises an exciting journey of growth, success, and empowerment for all those under his guidance.