Thiel College Athletics

James Baird was a four-year letterman in both football and basketball. On the gridiron as a freshman, Baird played right cornerback on defense and was the team’s punter and punt returner.

His sophomore year was difficult, as he played the year with both shoulders separated. However, the next year he came back strongly. From his new position at free safety, he ranked second in interceptions and kickoff returns in the conference. He also ranked third in punt returns and was an All-PAC Defensive First Team selection at defensive back.

During his senior year, Baird served as the co-captain. He helped the Tomcats capture the 1967 conference championships, their first ever, by making the most tackles on the team by a defensive back. He finished the season with a team-best seven interceptions, a total of 16 for his career. He was named to the Pittsburgh Press All-District Small College Defensive First Team at defensive back. He also received an award from the Thompson Run Athletic Association for outstanding achievement in small college athletics. A four-year letterman in basketball, Baird was co-captain of the team for three years. He was the tam playmaker, assist leader and defensive specialist.

In the fall of 1968, Baird returned to Thiel to complete his degree requirements. During that time, he served as assistant coach and scot to the football team, as well as coach of the freshman basketball team and assistant coach of the varsity team. He was named Who’s Who Among Students in American Colleges and University in 1968.