Flathead Hires Fairclough to Lead Volleyball Program

Nicole Fairclough has been named the new head coach of the volleyball program at Flathead High School.

Activities Director Bryce Wilson announced the hire June 1.

“Nicole is passionate about kids and coaching volleyball,” Wilson said. “She has a strong desire to move the Flathead Bravette volleyball program forward. She articulated her vision for the program during the interview. Her positive energy and desire to lead our program was a key factor. She wants to develop the program to be a consistent team that competes at state every year.”

Fairclough will replace Courtney Baker, who stepped down in March after two seasons.

The Bravettes were 3-14 overall last season and 15-7 overall the prior year.

Fairclough was selected by an interview committee consisting of Wilson, Flathead Principal Peter Fusaro and coach/teacher Jesse Rumsey.

Fairclough grew up in Kent, Washington and competed in varsity volleyball all four years at Kent Ridge High School, along with playing on a nationally competitive club team. She attended Montana State University and graduated in December 2014 with an elementary education degree. She has coached volleyball at various levels, including two seasons as the sophomore coach at Bozeman High School, in 2013-14.

The 25-year-old Kalispell resident, who is the general manager at Sweet Peaks in Kalispell, said she is excited to help rebuild the program into a state title contender.

“Coaching has always been a passion of mine,” she said. “This is a great way to be involved in the community.”