03/29/2025
Tonight was the Jersey Retirement Ceremony for Austin Dugar. Dutch Fork Men's Soccer pulled out a 5-2 win over Irmo.
2025 Dutch Fork Men’s Soccer – Austin Dugar Jersey Retirement Ceremony
“Ladies and Gentlemen, this evening we gather to honor the memory of a beloved former teammate, leader, and friend—Austin Dugar—by retiring his jersey. Please direct your attention to midfield for a special ceremony commemorating Austin’s impact on the Dutch Fork Men’s Soccer Program, where he proudly served as a captain and a cornerstone of our team.
Austin stood out as a gifted midfielder for the Silver Foxes, known not only for his technical skill and work ethic but also for his spirit, kindness, and the example he set for others. After graduating, he continued his academic journey at the College of Charleston, majoring in Computer Science. Tragically, Austin’s promising life was cut short in 2018 when he passed away in a car accident at the age of 19.
To ensure his memory remains alive within our program, Austin’s name was added to our annual Dutch Fork Men’s Soccer Alumni Match—played each year in honor of both Chris Witte and Austin Dugar. It’s a tradition that brings past and present players together in celebration of the legacy these young men left behind.
Tonight, we are joined by members of Austin’s family, friends, and former teammates, who have come together at midfield during halftime to witness the official retirement of Austin’s jersey—an honor bestowed by the Dutch Fork Men’s Soccer Program and the Dutch Fork Men’s Soccer Alumni Association.
Austin’s jersey is only the second to ever be retired in program history, a testament to the indelible mark he left on and off the pitch.
We’d like to recognize members of Austin’s family who are with us tonight:
Attending:
His father, Bill Dugar
His mother, Michele Dugar
His grandmother, Lena Dugar
His uncle, Christopher Dugar
His aunt, Bernice Moore
Unable to attend:
His uncle Alex Dugar, aunt Torria Dugar, uncle Ferron Hall, aunt Nicole Hall, sister Madison Dugar, and brother Jackson Dugar are sending their love to us.
Some of whom traveled great distances to be here, a reflection of the deep love and pride they carry for Austin.
On behalf of the Dutch Fork community, we present a retired jersey to Austin’s family, and another will be displayed permanently within the school—serving as a tribute to his commitment, leadership, and lasting influence.
Please join us now in a moment of silence to honor Austin, his family, and the enduring spirit he brought to our team.
Thank you for sharing in this meaningful moment. Austin’s energy, his leadership, and his warmth continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him—and in the legacy he helped build here at Dutch Fork.”
