Gifford to return to classroom, basketball court at BPHS

After six years leading Broadalbin-Perth’s interscholastic athletics program, Director of Athletics Tucker Gifford has decided to return to his first loves: teaching and coaching.

Gifford, who is certified in physical education, health, and business, is stepping down from his administrative role to return to the classroom and take over as the Patriots’ varsity girls basketball coach.

“I’m looking forward to having a direct impact on our student-athletes again,” Gifford said. “We have a special group of young women who are ready to work hard and succeed this upcoming basketball season. Coaching has always been a passion of mine, and I have more to give to the game. For me, coaching is about guiding young people to appreciate the process of getting better every day and pushing their limits to be their best both on and off the court. 

“This is what feels right for me. I’ve worked hard over the past six years to strengthen our programs, and now I’m eager to share that same dedication and energy with our students on the court and in the classroom.”

During his time as director of athletics, Gifford guided B-P through a period of significant program growth, including the addition of Unified sports, girls flag football, and shared sports programs with Amsterdam in boys and girls lacrosse, swimming, and tennis.

Gifford has been with the district since 2003, and served as a physical education, health, and business teacher until his appointment to the director of athletics position in 2019. He has extensive experience coaching both boys and girls basketball at Broadalbin-Perth and Northville.

Gifford’s return to the classroom will enable Broadalbin-Perth to expand its Project Lead the Way (PLTW) offerings, specifically in the biomedical science pathway, providing students with more opportunities to explore health- and science-related careers.

Superintendent of Schools Stephen Tomlinson praised Gifford’s leadership and his lasting impact on the district’s athletics program.

“Tucker has been an exceptional leader for our athletics program, guiding it through a period of tremendous growth and innovation,” said Superintendent of Schools Stephen Tomlinson. “He has always been driven by a deep commitment to students — whether as an educator, coach, or administrator — and his return to the classroom and the basketball court will allow him to make an even greater direct impact on our students’ lives. We are grateful for his years of leadership and excited to see him continue serving our district in his new role.”

Current high school assistant principal Shauna-Rae Haley will succeed Gifford as athletics director. Haley, who also serves as director of the Broadalbin Youth Commission, brings experience as both a coach and an administrator to the role.

“Shauna-Rae is a proven leader who understands the importance of athletics in building character, community, and school spirit,” Tomlinson said. “Her experience as both a coach and an administrator, combined with her strong relationships across our school community, makes her the ideal person to carry forward the positive momentum of our athletics program. I am confident she will continue to elevate opportunities for all Broadalbin-Perth student-athletes.”

“I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished to grow and expand our programs for the students and community at Broadalbin-Perth,” Gifford said. “I’m confident Mrs. Haley will continue that momentum. She knows our students, she understands the value of athletics, and she has the leadership skills to keep moving our program forward.”

The district will immediately begin a search for a new high school assistant principal.