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This is the fifth in a series highlighting the people behind the named scholarships administered by the Davie Community Foundation.

Three people involved in student athletics have respective scholarships focused on recognizing students involved in high school sports because of the dedication required to play a sport and be good student.

“Members of the Class of 2022 are preparing to leave for college with an investment from these scholarships and will hopefully continue the dedication to excellence they exhibited in high school,” said Jane Simpson, president and CEO of the foundation.

The following information is included with the student scholarship contracts.

“We believe young people need to know something about the people for whom their scholarships are named. Hopefully, they will feel even more motivated to succeed,” she said.

Daric Beiter

Daric Beiter was a loving husband, brother, son, friend, teacher, and to countless young people, coach. Thanks to the vision and generosity of wife Michelle and his community, Daric will always be remembered in Davie County.

In December 2011, “The Extra Mile, Daric Beiter Scholarship” was opened at the Davie Community Foundation. Because of Daric’s love for running, a 5k fundraiser was planned for the spring with proceeds added to the scholarship.

Daric Beiter was a beloved history teacher and track and cross-country coach at Davie County High School. Daric died on his 37th birthday, leaving a shocked family and community.

According to then Davie High principal Jeff Wallace:  “We lost a track coach and a teacher, but more importantly, a guy the kids could truly relate to. When he got 70 to 80 kids out for cross-country, I knew they were there for some other reason than just to run.”

Shawn Rider, a student teacher, and assistant track coach when Daric died said Daric lived his life to serve others.

Daric encouraged his students to “go the extra mile,” and through his scholarship fund, he will do just that by helping young people continue their education. Daric is missed by all who knew him, but his legacy lives on as he helps Davie High students long into the future.

Ron Kirk

Ron Kirk had an impressive record as the North Davie Middle School wrestling coach. He coached young men for 31 years with 15 perfect seasons and 16 unbeaten seasons. More important than success on the wrestling mat was the success he had in shaping the lives of the young men who wrestled for him at North Davie Middle School.

The scholarship in Ron’s memory is a testament to the impact he had on young people. The scholarship was started by a young man who wrestled for Coach Kirk, Lt. Kevin Robinson, US Coast Guard. He wanted to start something that would remember Ron Kirk and celebrate the life of a wonderful coach and mentor.

The Coach Ron Kirk Memorial Scholarship is awarded to a football player or wrestler who exhibits the qualities Kirk sought to instill in young people, dedication, perseverance, and teamwork.

Angie Slabach

Angie Slabach had tireless energy for her family, her sports, and her faith.  A former Davie High athlete and girls basketball coach, she made an impact on the game, being selected for the Davie Hall of Fame.

Angie graduated Davie High in 1984 and played basketball with UNC Wilmington and High Point University.  She coached the War Eagle girls from 1988-1994.

She excelled in all areas of her life. She is remembered for more than athletics. Friends said of Angie that by living an inspired life of faith, she was able to touch the lives of others on many different levels.

Angie sadly lost her three-year battle with breast cancer in 2013. She left a wonderful legacy that continues to bring joy to her children, her family, and her community.

To learn more, contact Simpson at (336) 753-6903 or jsimpson@daviefoundation.org or visit www.daviefoundation.org.