Heather Sulkowski, a Math teacher and coach at Manteo High School, received the prestigious Homer Thompson Memorial "Eight Who Made a Difference" Award for Region 1 from the North Carolina High School Athletic Association (NCHSAA).
This award recognizes exemplary sportsmanship, leadership, and a commitment to education-based athletics, honoring individuals who positively impact students and serve as exceptional role models. Coach Sulkowski was recognized for embodying these values through her work on and off the court, where she has shown an extraordinary dedication to her students and student-athletes.
As a former Manteo High School athlete and collegiate player, Sulkowski brings her passion, experience, and strong connection to the school’s heritage to every team she coaches. Under her leadership, the girls' volleyball and basketball programs have grown and thrived.
In her fourth season as head volleyball coach, Sulkowski recently led the volleyball team to the finals of the State 2A East Regional Championship Tournament and ended the season with an impressive 22-5 record. The previous year, Sulkowski led Manteo High’s volleyball team to the third round of the playoffs for the first time in many years, establishing a strong and successful volleyball program.
In addition to her involvement with the volleyball program, Sulkowski is in her second season as head women’s basketball coach, where she continuously works to grow the program and student-athletes under her care.
The Homer Thompson Memorial Award is named after the late Coach Homer Thompson, a celebrated Winston-Salem Parkland coach and NCHSAA Hall of Fame member. Each year, this award honors eight individuals across North Carolina who embody Thompson's dedication to sportsmanship and positive leadership.
Heather Sulkowski joins the ranks of these exceptional honorees, continuing the legacy of Coach Thompson and strengthening the values of sportsmanship and leadership among Manteo High School’s student-athletes. Her contributions will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on the school and Manteo community.
Dare County Schools proudly congratulates Coach Sulkowski on this well-deserved honor and is grateful for the exceptional job and impact she continues to make in the classroom and on the court.