Molly Browne ’26 Signs to Play Division I Soccer at the University of South Alabama

Molly Browne ’26 didn’t expect to take on a different role during her senior season. Back in June, she tore her ACL and has been on the sidelines since. “It’s different watching a game from the outside,” she said. “When I was playing, I felt like I didn’t have as much time to think when I had the ball. Then, watching the midfielders from the sideline, you see that you have more time to consider things, and I was able to help coach them to make better decisions.”

She’s working to get back in the game. For now, she’s only allowed to run, but when Molly does get to play, you can’t miss her. According to the Tennessee State Soccer Association, she is an aggressive player who makes a significant difference, from recording goals and assists to regaining possession when her opponents are on the attack.

Molly credits Hutchison for helping her build a strong work ethic and resilience on and off the field. “All the coaches want you to work your hardest and do your best,” she said. “I’ve learned to be a good teammate and not to get overly frustrated when things go wrong. You can’t control everything.”

Molly’s accolades include being named to the Tennessee High School Soccer Coaches Association All-State team, the Tennessee Sports Writers Association All-State team, and the Elite Club National League Girls Ohio Valley All-Conference First Team. US Youth Soccer previously recognized her as a National League Female Player of the Month. Hutchison varsity soccer coach Clint Browne, who is also her father, said her willingness to rise to the occasion and handle the pressure will serve her well at the collegiate level.

“Molly leads by example on the field and always competes, no matter the sport, at her highest level,” Coach Browne said. “As her high school coach, I'm very proud of the way she has pushed the program to improve. As her dad, I'm truly excited to see this next challenge and how she handles the jump. I've been lucky to spend so much time with Molly and her team.”

It’s not just soccer she excels at. Molly is also a member of the varsity basketball and varsity lacrosse teams and received the Anne Rooks Hampton Tri-Athlete Award last school year. As she works to join in the winter and spring sports after her injury, Molly said the athletics program’s resources have played an important role in helping to improve her skills and get her back on track.

“Having access to a workout facility like the Crain Center has helped a lot,” she said. “I started using it as a sophomore, and now, I can work with the athletic trainers as part of my physical therapy.”

Molly is looking forward to joining the 8-time Sun Belt Conference champions. She’s known the coach for a long time. Her father used to coach in the same conference as the University of South Alabama coach when they were both at different schools. “I’m excited about going there. I'm ready to surround myself with a team of people who want to play at the collegiate level. I enjoy the sport, and I like to compete,” she said.