(May 23, 2025) The Rochester City School District congratulates Mark Tisdale, Styles McKenzie-Baker, and Nickole Lobdell on being named Athlete of the Year, Partner of the Year, and Coach of the Year, respectively, for Section V’s Division 3 Unified Basketball program.
Unified Basketball is a collaboration between Special Olympics New York and the New York State Public High School Athletic Association. The program brings together students with intellectual disabilities (players) and students without intellectual disabilities (partners) to create inclusive teams for training and competition.
Athlete of the Year
Mark Tisdale, a senior at World of Inquiry School No. 58, has been named Athlete of the Year. The son of Mark Tisdale, a legendary football player at East High School, the younger Mark has made a name for himself through his positivity, work ethic, and team spirit. “Mark is such a delight to have on our team,” said Chris Passamonte, World of Inquiry’s Unified Basketball Coach. “He always shows up with a smile, puts in 100 percent, and is willing to help his teammates be successful.”
Partner of the Year
Styles McKenzie-Baker, a senior at James Monroe High School, has been named Partner of the Year in recognition of his outstanding leadership and sportsmanship. A multi-year All-Greater Rochester football player and team captain, Styles exemplifies dedication both on and off the field/court. He also serves as a My Brother’s Keeper fellow, a role that emphasizes leadership development and community service. These same qualities shine through in his commitment as a Unified partner, where he continues to lead by example and uplift others through inclusion.
“I am not at all surprised Styles is being recognized as Partner of the Year,” said Jason Muhammad, Principal of James Monroe High School and one of Styles’ football coaches. “His leadership and selflessness reflect everything we are proud of at Monroe, the school we call the jewel of the city.”
Coach of the Year
Nickole Lobdell is a special education teacher at Edison Career and Technology High School. This school year marked Ms. Lobdell’s first time coaching both Unified Basketball and Bowling, making this recognition particularly special. She has been a dedicated educator for 25 years, including 18 years in the RCSD.
“I have children with special needs, so when I look out at these athletes, I think about how I would want my kids to be treated,” said Nickole. “I want them to have support, a cheering crowd, and a fun experience. That is what we have here, and that is what these kids deserve.”
East High School, Edison Career and Technology High School, James Monroe High School, Joseph C. Wilson Magnet High School Commencement Academy, Thurgood Marshall Middle School, and World of Inquiry School No. 58 all offer Unified Basketball and/or Bowling programs.
Please join us in congratulating Mark, Styles, and Coach Lobdell on these well-deserved honors.
