5 Super Athletes With Ties To Mid Hudson Valley

Sports have a way of teaching invaluable life lessons — building character, fostering teamwork and strengthening the bonds within a community. In the Mid Hudson Valley 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. McClain Ward (Equestrian)

A six-time Olympian and five-time Olympic medalist, McLain Ward is one of the most decorated equestrians in the world. Born and raised in Brewster, he trains at Castle Hill Farm and has competed at the highest level, including the Olympic Games and World Championships, earning numerous team and individual medals. Known for his skill, consistency and dedication to the sport, Ward remains a celebrated figure in equestrian circles.

2. Victoria Isaacson (Wheelchair Fencing)

Victoria Isaacson, a Paralympian and Poughkeepsie native, turned a personal challenge into an inspiring athletic journey. Initially fencing as an able-bodied athlete, she transitioned to wheelchair fencing after becoming ill, with unwavering support from her coach. A competitor at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, Isaacson has also competed in multiple World Championships.

3. Andre Williams (Football)

Poughkeepsie native Andre Williams, played four seasons in the NFL from 2014 to 2017, primarily with the New York Giants and Los Angeles Chargers. Drafted by the Giants in the fourth round of the 2014 NFL Draft, Williams had a strong rookie season, rushing for 721 yards and seven touchdowns, including a standout 113-yard game against the Titans. Since retiring from professional football, Williams has launched a high-end denim brand and plans to publish a memoir when the time is right.

4. Charlotte Buck (Rowing)

Nyack's Charlotte Buck has made waves in rowing, becoming a two-time Olympian as well as a silver medalist at the 2023 World Championships. A Columbia University graduate, Buck began rowing with Rockland Rowing as a recreational pursuit before transforming it into an elite career. As a team captain and MVP in college, she exemplified leadership and determination, which she carries into her international competitions.

5. Thomas “Tommy” Winton Boggs (Baseball)

Poughkeepsie-born baseball star Tommy Boggs left a lasting legacy, both on and off the field. The second overall pick in the 1974 MLB draft, Boggs played for the Texas Rangers and Atlanta Braves, contributing to historic teams and achieving standout seasons. After his professional career, he became a pioneering coach, mentoring hundreds of young players through his innovative Austin Slam Baseball program and later leading Concordia University’s team to record-breaking success.

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