By Miles Layton

COLUMBIA — Columbia High School has a new man leading its football program, and he’s bringing a philosophy built on faith, discipline and fundamentals.

Ron’Dayle Floyd has been named head football coach at Columbia High School. While he’s new to Tyrrell County, he’s no stranger to North Carolina high school football.

“I’m new to Tyrrell County,” Floyd said to the Albemarle Observer. Before arriving, he taught physical education for Martin County Schools and served as head coach at Martin County Middle School, where he compiled a 31-2 record over five years and led the team to five conference championships. He also brings assistant coaching experience from Washington County High School and Riverside-Martin High School.

Oh my God — I just realized who this coach is! I’ve seen his team play — he’s good — his Martin County team beat Chowan Middle School last season. Wow — he’s going to be a game changer for Columbia. This is good news! 

And check this video out about the coach — click here!

I did a little digging — Floyd’s coaching résumé includes a standout stint at Riverside Middle School, where he made school history by leading the team to a perfect 6-0 record in 2022 while allowing just eight points all season.

Faith has long been central to Floyd’s approach on the field. He’s previously described his coaching style as “holy-hardnosed-football,” rooted in his identity as a deacon and Bible-based man.

“My kids know I am Deacon Floyd before I am Coach Floyd,” he said to the Enterprise in 2022. “Kids seem to love me, but I can really say it is God.”

That faith-driven mentality shapes how he builds relationships with his players — I love this quote!

“God has given me a gift to know how to make kids believe in themselves and be optimistic,” he said to the Enterprise. “One of the biggest things as a coach is how to motivate your kids. You’ve got to love them so much they don’t want to let you down. You’ve got to know how to put something in them they don’t have. You put it in there by a loving, caring relationship.”

Floyd holds a master’s degree in business administration, along with an undergraduate degree from Mt. Olive College and a master’s from Liberty University.

For Floyd, coaching goes far beyond wins and losses.

“What I enjoy most about coaching is developing both the character and athletic ability of each player,” Floyd said. “Seeing young people grow on and off the field is one of the most rewarding parts of the job.”

That philosophy starts with fundamentals.

“I absolutely stress the basics,” Floyd said. “Being fundamentally sound is what wins football games. We want our players to master the little things because those details make the biggest difference on Friday nights.”

Floyd said his responsibilities extend well past the scoreboard.

“I believe coaching is about much more than football,” he said. “Winning games is important, but my greatest responsibility is helping young people become disciplined, accountable, and respectful young men. I want our players to understand that the habits they develop on the field — hard work, consistency, teamwork, and perseverance — will carry over into the classroom, their careers, and throughout their lives.”

He’s said much the same in the past to the Enterprise: “I don’t care about football. I want you to be successful. At the end of the day, I can’t remember all the scores, rushing yards, who we beat. But I can remember if you become a good dad, or a good husband. I hold them accountable.”

As for his first season at the helm, Floyd isn’t shying away from setting the bar high.

“As for our goals, I hope to win the conference championship in my first year while continuing to see progress throughout our football program, both on and off the field,” Floyd said. “Building a positive culture and developing our student-athletes is just as important as what shows up on the scoreboard.”

Floyd’s football roots trace back to Washington High School, playing for the PamPack under Coach Sport Sawyer.  

“Some people may consider it a rural school, but that’s where I grew up and played high school football,” Floyd said. 

Since settling in Tyrrell County, Floyd said he and his family have quickly felt at home.

“One of the things I’ve enjoyed most about Tyrrell County so far is how peaceful it is,” he said. “The people here have been very welcoming and friendly, and my family and I are excited to become part of the community.”

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