On Thursday, May 23, 2024, the Maine-Endwell Board of Education recognized Scholar Athlete Liam Hadfield, Physical Education and Teacher, Coach Bill Ocker and Skills USA gold medal-winning students Micah Gray and Shayla Limbert.
Liam Hadfield:
In the world of high school sports, some individuals stand out not only for their athletic talent but also for their dedication to academic excellence. Liam Hadfield exemplifies this unique blend of talent and commitment, earning recognition as a distinguished scholar-athlete by the New York State Public High School Athletic Association (NYSPHSAA).
Liam's journey to success is marked by remarkable achievements across multiple sports disciplines. As a member of the bowling team, Liam showcased his exceptional bowling skills, leaving an indelible mark on the lanes. His momentous accomplishment of bowling a perfect game, scoring a flawless 300 at the Section IV tournament, is a testament to his unwavering focus and precision under pressure.
Beyond the lanes, Liam's athletic talent extends to the gridiron, where he has proudly represented his school in football. His participation in the Football State Championships reflects his commitment to excellence and his invaluable contributions to the team's success on the field.
Liam's passion for sports knows no bounds, as evidenced by his stellar performance on the baseball diamond. Already this season, he has demonstrated his power and skill by hitting two home runs, leaving spectators in awe of his talent and determination.
As we celebrate Liam Hadfield's remarkable accomplishments, we commend him for his exemplary commitment to both academic and athletic pursuits. His achievements serve as an inspiration to aspiring student-athletes, reminding them that with dedication, perseverance, and a relentless pursuit of excellence, anything is possible.
The competitions of the SkillsUSA Championships are created and judged by industry to ensure that students are learning the real-world skills employers demand from entry-level professionals.
Shayla Limbert:
Skills USA State Competition-- First Place for TV Production
Competitors are required to plan and shoot a video (generally 30 seconds or one minute in length) on location to convey the theme of the event. Editing is done in the competition area with special emphasis on professional production of the video by industry standards, quality of audio and video and adequate conveyance of the theme to the viewer of the final piece.
Michal Gray:
Skills USA State Competition .... First Place for Cabinet Making
Competitors build a small cabinet or piece of furniture from the supplied materials and drawings. Competitors are expected to read the drawings, lay out, create a cut list, and cut the parts using a variety of tools including, but not limited to, the following: table saw, miter saw, drill, hinge boring machine, and various hand tools. The parts must be accurately assembled, sanded, and adjusted to tolerances specified by the judges.
William (Bill) Ocker: Physical Education and Health Teacher
Coach Ocker was named WICZ Teacher of the Week in January.
Student Quote: "I really don't think I would be who I am today if it wasn't with his help and his impact and everything. So, I owe everything to him."
• Coaches Junior Varsity Football, Varsity Basketball, Varsity Girls Flag Football, and Unified Basketball
• Boys Basketball team made their first NYS Final Four appearance after winning Section IV
• Girls Varsity Flag Football were Section l\l Finalists
• Has organized trips with his basketball team to Alaska, and this past winter, to Texas for team building, and to give students opportunities to see our country opportunities many may never had unless provided this through basketball.
• Founding Member of Spartanpoolza.
• For a decade or more, Bill had a dream of having a basketball game played during the school day for the entire student body. We are thankful that he did not let this dream fizzle out due to the numerous hurdles that had to be cleared to make this dream become a reality. His persistence led not only t-0 the game being played, but the creation of an entirely new tradition at Maine-Endwell High School - Spartanpalooza. The high school was able to create a culture day that strengthened the sense of community/pride at the building and provided a unique and special experience for staff and students.