2025 Wellington Mara Award recipient

Pictured above (from left to right): Rick Robustelli (MLJF Board Member), Tom Duddie (2025 Mara Award Recipient), Steve Bedosky (MLJF Board President).

Tom Duddie - Stamford Little League & Babe Ruth Baseball of Stamford

For the past two decades, Tom Duddie has been the quiet force and, often, the loudest voice, behind youth sports in Stamford.  If you've been on a baseball diamond, a football field, or even in a church pew, chances are Tom has asked you to help coach or maybe even run a league. 

His selfless dedication to our kids and our community is unwavering.  From coaching Tee Ball - where nearly every young athlete in Stamford learns the basics, to volunteering at tournaments and now leading the First Down Club youth football program, Tom has left a lasting mark on every level of youth sports. 

He is not just a coach, he is a mentor, a recruiter, an advocate and a constant presence.  Whether it's Stamford Babe Ruth, Stamford Little League, or youth football, he's on the field, in the boardroom, or behind the scenes making it all happen.  And through it all, his focus on sportsmanship and player development remains at the core. 

Tom Duddie is the epitome of what both Wellington Mara and Mickey Lione, Jr. stood for - integrity, commitment and a deep belief in the power of sports to shape young lives.  His impact is immeasurable, and his example is inspiring!

Previous recipients

2023 - Craig Baker - Stamford Little League

2023 - Butch LaMotta - Babe Ruth Baseball of Stamford

2022 - Jennifer Sheridan - Stamford YoungTimers Girls Basketball

2022 - Joseph Claps - Stamford North Little League & Flag Football (First Down Club)

2021 - Bryan Fox - Stamford Stars Softball

2021 - Jonathan Hoch - Stamford North Little League

2019 - Michael Deenihan - Stamford American Little League

2019 - Greg Milburn - Stamford Youth Hockey Association

2018 - Joe Calendrelli - Stamford North Little League

2018 - Jaime Camacho - Stamford Youth Wrestling

2016 - Pete Hansen - Stamford Lacrosse Association

2014 - Bobby Robustelli - Springdale Little League

2011 - Mike Battinelli - Stamford Junior Wrestling

2009 - Junie DeLeo - Springdale Little League

2008 - Billy DeVito - National Little League

2007 - Michael Crocco - Stamford Youth Soccer