NCHSAA announces Homer Thompson “Eight Who Make a Difference” Award Winners
CHAPEL HILL, NC — The North Carolina High School Athletic Association (NCHSAA), in partnership with North Carolina Farm Bureau Mutual Insurance Company, is proud to recognize eight outstanding high school coaches with the 2024-2025 Homer Thompson “Eight Who Make a Difference” Award. This annual award honors coaches across the state who exemplify exceptional sportsmanship and serve as inspiring role models for student-athletes.
Named in honor of Coach Homer Thompson, a long-time coach and respected sportsmanship advocate from Winston-Salem Parkland High School, the award highlights the vital role of coaches who lead with character, respect, and integrity both on and off the field. These coaches are selected from each of the NCHSAA’s eight regions and will be recognized at the NCHSAA Awards Ceremony June 18.
Each recipient has been nominated by their peers and communities for their leadership and the positive impact they have on education-based athletics. The NCHSAA applauds these individuals for embodying the spirit of the “Benching Bad Behavior” initiative and promoting respect in high school sports.
2024-2025 Homer Thompson “Eight Who Make a Difference” Award Recipients:
Region 1: Kampbell Belangia
Currituck County High School – Head Women’s Wrestling Coach
A former state qualifier and recruited athlete, Coach Kampbell Belangia brought her knowledge, discipline, and competitive spirit to the women’s wrestling program at Currituck. As a leader and role model, she promoted sportsmanship, teamwork, and respect. Her team earned the Sportsmanship Award at the prestigious WRAL Invitational, an honor voted on by their peers. A proud U.S. Coast Guard recruit, she empowered her athletes both on the mat and in life.
Region 2: Laura Eakins
Pender High School – Cross Country, Indoor Track & Field, Outdoor Track & Field
For over 15 years, Coach Eakins has inspired athletes of all abilities to grow in character and performance. In 2020, she was named Pender High’s Coach of the Year and continues to lead one of the school’s largest athletic programs. Her selflessness went far beyond coaching—when one of her athletes, Kaleek Beatty, needed a kidney transplant, Laura donated her kidney to a stranger to move Kaleek up the donor list. She embodies everything this award stands for: compassion, humility, and putting others first.
Region 3: Phyllis Neville
Weldon STEM High School – Volleyball and Softball
Coach Neville is a steady presence at Weldon, serving as a coach, mentor, and the WIOA Coordinator for Career Academies. Her leadership extends well beyond the court: she sews uniforms, organizes community service efforts, and supports players facing challenges—including battling and overcoming cancer herself. Her “Pink Out” games raise awareness and provide hope. A statistician, mentor, and advocate for every student she encounters, Coach Neville represents the heart of education-based athletics.
Region 4: Kevin Spivey
Central Carolina Academy – Wrestling
When his school needed a wrestling coach on short notice, longtime school resource officer Kevin Spivey stepped up—despite no prior wrestling experience. Coach Spivey quickly became a guiding force for his athletes, instilling the values of devotion and belief. Thanks to his leadership, 11 of 13 wrestlers qualified for regionals, with one qualifying for states. More than a coach, he is a mentor whose words and actions have left a lasting impact on his team.
Region 5: Charles Byrd
Seaforth High School – Women’s Basketball Coach
Coach Byrd has built a successful and resilient basketball program during Seaforth’s first four years of existence. Despite multiple seasons with few or no seniors, his leadership led the team to an NCHSAA State Championship appearance and two Eastern Regional Runner-Up finishes. Emphasizing the philosophy of “family,” Coach Byrd fosters deep connections with his players, teaching lessons that extend beyond basketball. Through every tough loss, he encourages growth—reminding his team to “Grow 1% every day.” His focus on character and sportsmanship has shaped the foundation of the Seaforth program.
Region 6: Ty Johnson
Community School of Davidson – Boys Basketball
In just his first season, Coach Ty Johnson transformed the culture of the basketball program and united the wider school community. Despite working off-campus, he regularly visits classrooms, checks on academics, and challenges his players to live “Above The Line” in all areas of life. His impact has extended beyond the court, bringing teachers, families, and students together to support one another with purpose and pride.
Region 7: Darrin Haywood
Wrestling and Men’s & Women’s Golf Coach, East Surry High School
Coach Haywood achieved his 300th career wrestling victory, a testament to his long-standing commitment to excellence. Under his guidance, the golf teams have secured multiple conference championships, reflecting his ability to inspire and lead across multiple sports.
Region 8: Matt Bradley
Franklin High School – Athletic Director and Football Coach
Coach Bradley is known for his deep investment in the lives of his student-athletes and his entire school community. A trusted leader and dedicated mentor, he helps students realize their full potential—on the field and in the classroom. His commitment to servant leadership has left a lasting impression on the culture at Franklin High School, and his guidance is felt across all athletic programs.
These eight recipients truly embody the values of sportsmanship, leadership, and excellence that define the NCHSAA’s mission and the Homer Thompson legacy.
