First Flight High School is proud to announce that Coach Billy Folkes has been named the new head coach of the varsity men’s soccer team, stepping into the role following the retirement of legendary Coach Juan Ramirez. This transition marks an exciting new chapter for the Nighthawks’ program – one rooted in tradition, excellence and a deep commitment to student-athletes.

 

Folkes brings 15 years of teaching and coaching experience within Dare County Schools. Throughout his career, he has coached multiple sports at both the middle and high school levels, including men’s and women’s soccer, men’s and women’s basketball, and varsity men’s golf. In addition, he has spent the past six years coaching club-level soccer with OBX Storm, further strengthening his ties to the local soccer community and developing athletes beyond the school setting.

 

A lifelong student of the game, Folkes credits much of his growth to outstanding mentors, including Ramirez and Coach Chad Williams.

 

"Throughout my career, I have continued to grow as a coach by learning from excellent mentors,” Folkes said. “This program has achieved a high level of success under the leadership of Juan Ramirez, and my intention is to continue many of the same principles he has instilled in me and in the players we have coached together.”

 

Folkes’ soccer journey began as a player with Beach FC on the ’75 Hotspur team. During high school, he moved to Elizabeth City and played for Northeastern High School, where he earned Team MVP, All-Conference and All-Region honors. He continued his playing career at Chowan University, earning Offensive MVP as a freshman, before transferring to East Carolina University. While at ECU, he served as an undergraduate assistant with the men’s basketball program, gaining valuable insight into collegiate athletics, practice planning, film study and the importance of strong player-coach relationships.

 

Beyond the field, Folkes is deeply rooted in the Dare County community. He is married to a fellow Dare County Schools coach and teacher, and together they have two children who attend Dare County Schools. He is an active member of Nags Head Church and enjoys surfing, playing golf and serving his church in his free time.

 

As head coach, Folkes’ vision is clear.

 

"My goal as a coach is to provide a supportive environment that helps players reach their full potential on and off the field,” he said. “I believe in excelling both in the classroom and in competition through hard work, dedication, teamwork, commitment, and accountability."

 

First Flight High School is excited to begin this new era of Nighthawks soccer under Folkes’ leadership and looks forward to continued success built on a strong foundation of character, community and commitment.