Akron Public Schools Announces RayShaun Nevins as New Head Football Coach at Firestone Community Learning Center

Firestone Community Learning Center (CLC) is proud to announce the appointment of RayShaun Nevins as the Head Coach of the 2025 Falcons Football team. This significant leadership addition marks an exciting new chapter for the Falcons as they prepare for a season defined by growth, dedication, and spirited competition.

Dr. Stacey Hodoh, Director of Communications for Akron Public Schools, expressed immense enthusiasm for Coach Nevins' appointment. "We are incredibly proud to welcome Coach RayShaun Nevins to the Firestone CLC family and the Akron Public Schools athletic program," said Dr. Hodoh. "Coach Nevins brings almost a decade of coaching experience to the program, including the past six years as a valued member of the Firestone CLC coaching staff under Eric Mitchell. His deep roots in the Akron community, coupled with his proven track record of developing talent, make him an exceptional choice to lead our Falcons."

Adding to the sentiment, Joe Vassalotti, Akron Public Schools Athletic Director, stated, "Coach Nevins embodies the spirit of dedication and excellence that we strive for in Akron Public Schools athletics. His commitment to both on-field success and the holistic development of our student-athletes is truly inspiring. We are confident that under his leadership, the Firestone CLC football program will continue to thrive and positively impact the lives of our young men."

Prior to his tenure at Firestone CLC, Coach Nevins honed his skills at Thiel College, where he served as a coach for Running Backs and Wide Receivers. During his impactful stint at Thiel, Nevins notably coached Nick Barca, who shattered the school’s rushing record and earned Presidents Athletic Conference Honors, a testament to Coach Nevins' ability to elevate player performance.

Coach Nevins' profound love for football began at the youth level with the East Dragons of the Akron Parent Pee-Wee Football Association. That passion propelled him through successful playing careers at Garfield High School (Class of 2013) and Thiel College (Class of 2017).

Coach Nevins is deeply committed to continuing the Falcon tradition of excellence. His coaching philosophy extends beyond the field, focusing on building strong athletes both physically and mentally, while fostering a culture rooted in teamwork, accountability, commitment, integrity, and discipline.

Joining Coach Nevins is a diverse and highly experienced coaching staff, bringing a wealth of knowledge gained through extensive coaching and playing careers:

Coach Daley (Firestone ‘07; Akron ‘15) – Defensive Coordinator, Defensive Backs

Coach Irby (Garfield ‘73; Ashland ’77) – Special Teams Coordinator, Running Backs

Coach R. Cole (Firestone ‘02, Malone ‘07) – Defensive Line

Coach Culp (LHS ‘90; Akron) – Quarterbacks

Coach Harris (Firestone ‘15; Toledo ‘21) – Offensive Line

Coach Ngozi (Central Hower ‘84; Kent ’88) – Defensive Line

Coach Reid (CFHS ‘86; Akron ’91 ‘93; Walden ‘93) – Academics and Operations

Coach Stafford (Central Hower ‘06, Mount Union ’07) – Linebackers and Running Backs

Coach D. Cole (Firestone ‘08; Fortis ‘16) – Litchfield Middle School Head Coach

Coach Ray (Garfield ‘02; Akron ‘07) – Defensive Coordinator, Litchfield Middle School

Coach Nevins shared his excitement for the upcoming season, stating, “We are planning to have a successful season here at Firestone CLC. These young men have shown resilience in the face of adversity and we are excited to be here with them. They are eager and ready to work this year.”

Please join Akron Public Schools in warmly welcoming Coach Nevins to his new leadership role. We eagerly anticipate an exciting and successful 2025 season under his inspiring guidance.

Go Falcons!