NHTI Athletic Hall of Fame
A distinguished athlete and scholar, Andrew Bird played men’s soccer at NHTI from 1988-90 playing a key role for our very successful soccer teams. Bird helped to lead NHTI to the national runners-up in the NSCAA (the predecessor to our USCAA conference we are members of now). Bird is a native of Hollis, NH and is currently the Head of International Marketing and Student Retention at Bournemouth University in the United Kingdom.
An outstanding athlete in high school, veteran NHTI coach Bill Miller actually recruited Andrew while coaching his own high school track and field team. At a meet at Spaulding High School in Rochester, Andrew caught Coach Miller’s eye as a member of the Hollis-Brookline team. Andrew easily won the 200-meter dash which led to a conversation about NHTI Athletics, a campus visit and his eventual enrollment at NHTI.
In 1988, Bird led NHTI to the national championship game in Kansas and again in 1989 to the national semifinal contest in Illinois. He was recognized as an All-American at NHTI along with Academic awards as well.
Bird’s collection of soccer skill included a dominating ability on defense utilizing proper positioning, the ability to win the 50-50 head balls and quarterback his teammates. He also had the unique ability to start the transition from defense to offense helping his teammates move the ball into attack mode quickly in counteroffensive tactical play.
At 6’3, Bird was a fast intimidating midfielder whose speed, skill and ability to articulate the ball to spots dictated the pace of the game so often. A very intelligent player, Bird’s uncanny sense of the game were vital to the overall success for our NHTI team.
Cagey and smart on the field, Andrew Bird was a coach’s dream. Easy to coach, highly motivated, solid student and talented. His knowledge and understanding of how to maximize his teammates talents delivered a positive impact in every game. His ability to pick a player up when their heads may be down with a gentle nudge, calming command or pat on the back were vital to team success.
Popular with his teammates, Bird was a leader on and off the field. His experience at NHTI built strong friendships which continue today with special folks in his life including Concord High School boys’ soccer coach Scott Dunlop.
Back in the day, there were no fancy uniforms or an athletic trainer at a practice or game. The glory was to be able to play the sport of choice and enjoy time building friendships that have lasted since his time at NHTI.
Andrew lives in Dorset, England with his wife and four children. He was unable to attend tonight’s induction but sends his regards to everyone especially fellow inductees, his sincere appreciation for the NHTI athletic and educational experience and the special thanks to his former teammates and coaches.
On behalf of NHTI Athletics, let’s welcome Andrew Bird with his video acceptance for his induction to the NHTI Athletic Hall of Fame
