Special Olympics New York Announces 2025 Outstanding Coach of the Year Nominees

Nine Coaches Nominated from Each Region of New York State

Albany, NY – Special Olympics New York has unveiled the finalists for the 2025 Outstanding Coach of the Year Award. The winner will be announced at Special Olympics New York’s State Winter Games Opening Ceremonies on Friday, February 21 in Rochester.

Each of the nine finalists was nominated by staff and peers in their respective regions. The winner has been selected by the Statewide Coaches Committee, which is comprised of coaches in each of our nine regions.

“We wouldn’t have this life-changing movement without our coaches,” said President & CEO Stacey Hengsterman. “It’s these amazing individuals who volunteer their time and expertise to help our athletes improve every day, both on and off the field. They don’t do it for the recognition, but it’s deserved nonetheless.”

The nominees are as follows:

Debbie Call, Capital District Region. For more than 10 years, Debbie has been a constant source of motivation and positivity to her athletes. Despite trailing in her team’s first-ever softball competition, Debbie remained encouraging and reminded her team to enjoy their opportunity, no matter the result. Beyond coaching, she also supports fundraising and Unified sports efforts.

Rachel Hance, Genesee Region. Although Rachel graduated from Nazareth University just one year ago, she’s already made her presence felt in our movement. As the president of Nazareth’s Special Olympics Club, she helped organize on-campus competitions and fundraisers, while ensuring the club would continue after her graduation. Now, she coaches basketball, soccer, bowling, and fitness.

Terry Gower, Central Region. Swimming, bocce, golf, bowling, track & field…if there’s a sport in need of leadership, Terry has stepped up to coach it. With more than 10 years in our organization, he is committed to developing each of his athletes. Staff describe Terry as “a great role model” to everyone in the Central Region.

Braydon Heubsch, Hudson Valley Region. When it comes to leadership, sportsmanship, and integrity, few can compare to Braydon. As a basketball, bowling, and track & field coach, he’s deeply committed to supporting his athletes, even competing alongside them in Unified events. Though Braydon is newer to coaching than some, he’s already left an indelible mark on his region.

Terry Uellendahl, Long Island Region. Without Terry, Special Olympics NY golf simply wouldn’t be the same. He’s coached the sport for 16 years, while also serving as its Statewide Director and a chief organizer of the annual Gold Coast Golf Outing. Furthermore, he doesn’t only support his athletes—he’s always there to mentor his fellow coaches as well.

Amy Carlson, North Country Region. No matter what the North Country needs, Amy has stepped up to deliver it. Though she’s been a dedicated Special Olympics NY coach for 10 years, she’s volunteered for more than twice that long, serving on several competition and fundraising committees. In fact, she became a coach to address a shortage in her native region. Just last year, Amy trained and recruited 15 more coaches.

Doug Rebecca, New York City Region. In the words of those who nominated him, “Doug embodies everything we ask for from our coaches.” He meets each athlete where they are and challenges them to improve, always pushing them to their next milestone. His work in bringing our Motor Activity Training Program to New York City schools has been unparalleled, as are his efforts to support his fellow coaches.

Jonathan Philby, Southern Tier Region. For 12 years, Jonathan has coached soccer, basketball, and athletics. His nominating staff describe him as “a driving force behind all aspects of Special Olympics activities” in his community. In addition, Jonathan is instrumental in organizing the Cooperstown Torch Run and his local Go for the Gold fundraising event.

Lisa Balus, Western Region. With more than 20 years of coaching experience in our movement, Lisa has made an unparalleled impact on the Western Region. She coaches year-round, instructing athletes in bowling, floorball, and soccer. When asked if her training clubs have room for more, Lisa is adamant: “There’s always a home for them with me.”

Members of the media interested in interviewing our nominees can contact Casey Vattimo at cvattimo@nyso.org for more information.

SHARE THIS: