University of North Georgia Athletics

How Burkes got to UNG
Burkes, a Duluth, Ga. native, joined UNG after an outstanding two-sport career at Peachtree Ridge High School. On the pitch, she was named to the Georgia Athletic Coaches Association (GACA) 2024 Class 7A First Team All-State. Burkes was also given the Gwinnett County Public School (GCPS) 2023-24 Outstanding Senior Athlete Award. As a junior, Georgia High School Soccer named Burkes as a 2023 Class 7A All-State Honorable Mention. Beyond soccer, Burkes excels in the other "football", American that is. Burkes competed in the High School Football America league at Peachtree Ridge and was a two-time team captain for the girls flag football team. For her talents on the field and service to her community off the field, the Atlanta Falcons named Burkes the Atlanta Falcons Trailblazer of the Year which "recognizes a Georgia high school student-athlete who has gone above and beyond to contribute to her girls flag football team on the field while also making an impact in the community." Burkes was drawn to Dahlonega specifically because of the Nighthawk coaching staff. "I could tell they cared about me as a person and not just a player," said Burkes.