Athletic Director Tom Baker Honored for Work in Unified Sports

For six years, Hendrick Hudson Athletic Director Tom Baker has served as Section One’s Chairperson for Unified Sports, a program that integrates athletes with and without intellectual disabilities into the same teams and activities.

“My role as the Chairperson for Unified Sports has provided me with one of the most rewarding experiences of my life,” Baker said. “In six years, Unified Sports has grown tremendously in Section One. We started with six schools in Spring 2019, and now we have 23 playing basketball this spring. We grow each year.”

Baker’s was recognized for his role in that growth on Sunday at West Point by the Special Olympics organization. He was presented with a Going for the Unified Gold Award, receiving the honor from Special Olympics’ New York Mid-State Regional Director Ellen Pikula.

Baker was also recognized by Lieutenant General Steven Gilland, the Superintendent of the United States Military Academy.

“I was truly grateful to be recognized by the Special Olympics,” Baker said. “I am honored to be a part of their organization and the Unified Sports program.”

Unified Sports in Section One began with basketball, but bowling and tennis competitions have since been added. The number of schools participating in the program has continued to grow as well, Baker said.

The Going for the Unified Gold Award acknowledged Baker for his commitment and dedication to that growth in Section One for student-athletes and their communities. One example occurs each January when Hendrick Hudson hosts Floor Hockey Championships on behalf of Special Olympics.

Baker credited the effort of the school’s Unified coaches, special education staff members who are involved, and the student-athletes who have participated over the years.

“Unified Sports is the perfect name for the program, as these experiences truly unify all,” Baker said. “All are welcome and all are unified in providing the best experience.”