Former Badger standout and Big Ten Goalkeeper of the Year joins Wilkins’ staff after successful run at Utah State

MADISON, Wis. – Wisconsin women’s soccer and head coach Paula Wilkins have announced the hiring of former goalkeeper, Michele Dalton, as an assistant coach.

“We’re excited to have Michele rejoin the Wisconsin women’s soccer family,” said Head Coach Paula Wilkins. “She was one of our first recruits when I arrived at Wisconsin and one of the early players who helped establish the culture of our program. She knows the expectations that have been set and what it means to be a Badger. With her experience playing at the highest levels, including overseas and with the Chicago Red Stars, she brings valuable perspective that will benefit our players in all areas of their development. We’re looking forward to everything she’ll bring to our staff.”

In 2024, Dalton helped Utah State to a record-breaking season with 18 wins, a conference championship, and the program’s first NCAA Tournament home game. The Aggies were ranked as high as No. 7 in the country and set school records in goals, assists, points, and shutouts. She coached goalkeeper Cora Brendle to Mountain West Newcomer of the Year honors, and helped defender Kaitlyn Richins become the program’s first All-American.

Dalton also coached at Kentucky, Western Kentucky, and DePaul, and has developed top defensive units and goalkeepers throughout her career.

As a player, Dalton was a four-year letterwinner for the Badgers from 2007–11. She was named Big Ten Goalkeeper of the Year in 2011 and earned First Team All-Big Ten and NSCAA All-Region honors. Dalton was a two-time team MVP and still ranks among the program’s all-time leaders in saves per game (2nd) and career shutouts (5th).

Following her collegiate career, she played professionally in the NWSL and overseas, including stints in Iceland, Sweden, Cyprus, and with the Chicago Red Stars.