5 Super Athletes With Ties To Hampton-North Hampton

Sports have a way of teaching invaluable life lessons — building character, fostering teamwork and strengthening the bonds within a community. In the Hampton-North Hampton area, these values have shaped some truly remarkable athletes from different eras, whose accomplishments continue to inspire.

Patch has teamed up with T-Mobile to spotlight five standout athletes whose achievements have left a lasting mark on our community. While this list is just a snapshot, there are countless others who have helped shape the rich sports culture in our area.

1. Chris Coates (Basketball)

A Winnacunnet High School alum and Hampton native, Chris Coates earned the title of Mr. New Hampshire Basketball and led his team to three state finals appearances. At Keene State College, he became the first All-American in program history, averaging 19.3 points and 7.8 rebounds. Coates ranks second in scoring and fifth in rebounds on Keene State's all-time lists, achieving honors such as LEC and ECAC Player of the Year. After college, he pursued a professional basketball career overseas, playing in Australia, France and Norway.

2. Hayli Snaer (Golf)

Hayli Snaer, originally from Hampton, has excelled as a competitive golfer from a young age. Beginning her journey at just four years old, Snaer quickly rose to prominence, winning the US Kids Boston Local Tour Player of the Year title as a fourth grader and later competing internationally in Scotland and North Carolina. With numerous accolades, including Sun Preps All-Area Golfer of the Year and several tour championships, Snaer’s dedication to golf has earned her recognition across the U.S. and abroad. Now 18, she continues to compete while inspiring others through her coaching and passion for the sport.

3. Scotty Lago (Snowboarding)

Seabrook-born and Hampton-area resident Scotty Lago is a celebrated snowboarder and Olympic medalist. He captured bronze in the men’s halfpipe at the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics, cementing his place among snowboarding’s elite. He also achieved success in events like the X Games, the U.S. Open and the World Cup throughout his career. Beyond athletics, Lago remains active in his community, launching a German-style beer in collaboration with Hampton businesses and donating proceeds to charity.

4. Tiffany Ruffin (Basketball)

Tiffany Ruffin, a graduate of Winnacunnet High School, is one of New Hampshire's most accomplished basketball players. Leading the Warriors to five consecutive state championships, Ruffin earned three New Hampshire Gatorade Player of the Year awards for her outstanding skills as a guard. Known for her ability to set up teammates and lead under pressure, she went on to play at Boston College, where her talents continued to shine.

5. Tully Banta-Cain (Football)

Two-time Super Bowl champion Tully Banta-Cain has forged a strong connection to Hampton through his innovative Beach Football League. A former linebacker for the New England Patriots and San Francisco 49ers, Banta-Cain is known for his contributions to the Patriots’ 2003 and 2004 championship seasons. Inspired by the vibrant energy of Hampton Beach, he chose it as the launch pad for his league, which blends NFL players with rising talent in thrilling sand football games.

This content is brought to our community in partnership with T-Mobile.