Coach Kelly Souza brings an extraordinary legacy of athletic excellence and leadership to Berwick Academy. As a multi-sport star and Hall of Fame inductee at Noble & Greenough School, Kelly was a standout in
soccer,
hockey,
and lacrosse, earning numerous accolades including being named to the inaugural Hall of Fame class. Her high school athletic achievements include serving as team captain in all three sports, with
All-League honors in soccer (3 years),
hockey (4 years),
and lacrosse (3 years), as well as being a two-time
All-American in lacrosse. Kelly also led her teams to a
NE Championship in soccer, and she was recognized as the
Most Respected Female Athlete with the prestigious
Nobles Shield.
At the collegiate level, Kelly continued her remarkable athletic journey at both the University of New Hampshire (UNH) and Boston College. She played Women’s Hockey at UNH, where she was named to the ECAC All-Rookie Team and earned the title of Team Rookie of the Year. Kelly competed in the National Championship Game and later transferred to Boston College, where she captained the hockey team and was a Patty Kazmaier Nominee. At BC, she received the BC Athletics Leadership Award and the Outstanding Senior Award, ultimately earning a place in the Boston College Hall of Fame for Hockey. Her lacrosse experience at UNH and participation in USA Hockey National Festival further showcased her talents.
Kelly’s coaching career is equally impressive. She has served as the Head Varsity Hockey Coach at Berwick Academy since 2016, guiding the team to multiple successful seasons, including two EIL Coach of the Year awards, EIL Championships, and NEPSAC Tournament appearances. Her coaching success extends beyond Berwick, with a stellar record at Assabet Valley, where she has led the team to 4 State Championships and 1 National Championship. Kelly also previously coached at Milton Academy and BayView Academy, where she was named Coach of the Year.
Reflecting on her career, Kelly emphasizes the importance of relationships: "The wins and losses come and go, but the relationships last a lifetime. I love being part of my players' development and seeing their passion for learning and growth. It's what makes coaching so enjoyable."
Kelly's most influential role model was her high school soccer coach, a two-sport college athlete who inspired her to build meaningful relationships with her players and always push herself to be the best. One of Kelly's favorite coaching memories was watching Berwick grad and current UNH women’s hockey player Julia Cabral score in a shootout to clinch an EIL Championship for BA.
Her advice to student-athletes passionate about hockey? "Surround yourself with people who support your goals and provide the tools to help you reach your potential."