RALEIGH, N.C. – Meredith College Athletics has named Rayna Pepin head coach of the Avenging Angels flag football program as the team prepares for its inaugural season of competition in 2026-27.
Pepin brings more than a decade of playing, coaching and leadership experience across youth, high school, collegiate, adult and semi-professional flag and tackle football. During her time with the Meredith program, she has demonstrated a strong commitment to student-athlete development and the continued growth of flag football.
"Rayna brings a wealth of playing, coaching and leadership experience, but what stands out most is how much she cares about our student-athletes and this program," said Meredith Interim Athletic Director Fiona Barkley. "She leads with character, believes in this team, and is excited to build something special at Meredith. I'm looking forward to seeing what Coach Pep and our student-athletes accomplish together."
Pepin's playing background includes experience at quarterback, wide receiver, running back, defensive end and safety. Most recently, she played quarterback for Fayetteville State University's women's flag football team in 2025. Her experience at quarterback has helped shape her understanding of offensive strategy, defensive recognition, play development, and in-game decision-making.
As a coach, Pepin has led the Next Level 18U Girls Travel Flag Football program, served as an assistant offensive coach for Knightdale High School's girls varsity flag football team, and coached the Carolina Legends and Okinawa Legends women's flag football programs. Her responsibilities have included offensive development, quarterback training, practice planning, film study, game strategy and player development.
In addition to her football experience, Pepin brings a leadership background shaped by her service in both the United States Marine Corps and United States Army. During her military service, she completed multiple leadership programs as an honor graduate and received numerous commendations and achievement awards. Those experiences have helped shape her coaching philosophy, which emphasizes discipline, accountability, resilience, communication and service to others.
"I'm grateful for the opportunity to continue leading Meredith Flag Football and am excited about what we can accomplish together," said Pepin. "I'm committed to raising the standard for our student-athletes both on and off the field and building a strong team culture."
With Pepin leading the program, Meredith looks forward to building on the foundation of its flag football program and supporting the continued development of its student-athletes.
