Fork Union Military Academy is proud to announce the selection of Dealton Cotton as Head Varsity Football Coach. Cotton, who has served as the Academy’s School Counselor and Assistant Varsity Football Coach/Defensive Coordinator since 2023, brings decades of coaching experience at both the high school and collegiate levels. 

A native of Norfolk, Virginia, Cotton played football at Granby High School before earning three degrees from East Carolina University. A standout on the field, he was a four-year letterman for the Pirates and helped lead the team to the 1992 Peach Bowl and the 1994 Liberty Bowl. 

Cotton’s career in education and coaching spans more than 20 years, including roles as a school counselor, football coach, and athletic director. His coaching career includes a successful tenure as Head Football Coach at Maury High School in Norfolk, where he was named Coach of the Year in 2005, and at Norview High School, where he also served as Athletic Director and was named Conference 9 Coach of the Year in 2014. From 2008 to 2013, Cotton was an Assistant Head Coach and Defensive Line Coach at Old Dominion University. 

“We are thrilled to have Dealton Cotton take on the role of Head Varsity Football Coach at Fork Union Military Academy,” said Director of Athletics John Blake. “Coach Cotton brings a wealth of experience from both the high school and collegiate levels, along with a proven track record of leadership and success. His deep understanding of our current players, combined with his vision and strategic approach, will be instrumental in building a strong and competitive football program.” 

Cotton’s leadership both on and off the field has had a profound impact on student-athletes throughout his career. His experience in coaching, counseling, and mentoring young men aligns with Fork Union Military Academy’s mission to develop young leaders of character. 

“I am honored and excited to be selected as the next varsity football coach at Fork Union Military Academy,” said Cotton. “This is a special place with a rich tradition, and I look forward to building on that foundation by developing not just great athletes, but young men of character, discipline, and integrity. I’m proud to continue working with these cadets and helping them reach their full potential.” 

Cotton was inducted into the Granby High School Hall of Fame in 2023 and arrived at Fork Union in July 2023 after serving as School Counselor and Head Football Coach at East Wake High School near Raleigh, North Carolina. 

For more information about Fork Union Military Academy and its athletic programs, visit www.athletics.forkunion.com.