02/10/2026
Sherrills Ford Optimist is pleased to welcome our new Baseball Director, Michael Folk! Please say hello as you see he and is family around the Park this spring! Take a few minutes to get to know Mike by reading his introduction below.
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Hello Sherrills Ford Optimist families! My name is Michael Folk, and I am joining you as the new baseball director. I was born in Michigan and moved to North Carolina in 1997, where I have proudly made home ever since. I am married to my wife, Kara, and together we have three children: Parker (12), Wyatt (10), and Aubree (7).
I have been involved in recreational sports my entire life, beginning with hockey and later baseball. Growing up, I was heavily influenced by my father, who coached both myself and my brother and went on to serve as the Head Hockey Coach at Western Michigan University. That experience instilled in a deep appreciation for youth sports, mentorship, and the positive impact strong coaching can have on young athletes.
Once I became a parent, I felt a strong desire to give back by coaching and supporting youth sports programs. I previously served as the Baseball Commissioner for the East Lincoln Optimist Club for three years and was a member of the Board of Directors, gaining valuable experience in program leadership, organization, and community involvement.
Professionally, I am a career Fire Captain with the Charlotte Fire Department, where I have served the community for 21 years. My career has reinforced the importance of leadership, accountability, teamwork, and service—values I bring to every role I take on.
I am excited to serve the Sherrills Ford Optimist Club. While I do not currently have a child participating in SFO programs, I view this as a positive, allowing me to serve the organization and its families with objectivity and a focus on what is best for the entire community.
