NHTI – Concord’s Community College

Tom Neal served as head coach of the NHTI baseball program from 1998 to 2006, helping develop the Lynx into a consistent conference contender during his eight-year tenure.

Under Neal's leadership, NHTI made eight playoff appearances, advanced to four championship finals and captured two conference titles. Neal was named Coach of the Year in 2006. His impact was also reflected in the program's growth, as the number of players trying out for the team increased from just nine in his first season to more than 75 by his final year.

Before arriving at NHTI, Neal enjoyed a successful playing career at St. John's University, where he earned a full Division I baseball scholarship. He was a member of the 1968 St. John's team that competed in the College World Series and finished fourth nationally. Neal earned his bachelor's degree from St. John's in 1970 and his Juris Doctor from St. John's University School of Law in 1976.

Throughout his time at NHTI, Neal worked alongside fellow coaches Eric Duquette, a 2022 NHTI Athletics Hall of Fame inductee, and Ben Forbes, emphasizing both athletic development and building lasting relationships with his players. Following his coaching career, Neal returned to practicing law in the Concord area.

Reflecting on his time with the Lynx, Neal expressed gratitude for the opportunity to coach and help develop student-athletes, describing the title of "Coach" as second only to "Dad" in personal significance.