For over four decades, Coach Stephen Waters has been a consummate presence at Spectrum360 | Academy360, shaping the lives of countless students with autism and related challenges. His unwavering commitment to education and his passion for adaptive physical education have earned him a well-deserved place in the Newark Athletic Hall of Fame.
Born and raised in Newark, Coach Waters’ journey began in the city’s public schools, where he excelled both academically and athletically. A natural leader, he co-captained the football and track teams and earned a spot in the National Honor Society. After graduating from Rutgers University with a degree in Health and Physical Education, he discovered his true calling while volunteering in a recreational program for children with autism.
Joining Academy360 in 1983, Coach Waters developed innovative sports programs tailored to the unique needs of his students. His creative approach, incorporating visual and auditory aids, helped him connect with both verbal and non-verbal students. He found immense joy in watching his students grow cognitively, behaviorally, and independently.
“My greatest motivation is teaching students a lifelong skill they can enjoy with their families,” Coach Waters says. “That’s what it’s all about.”
He has always cherished the long-term growth he has witnessed in his students, as they gain skills that extend beyond the classroom and into their daily lives. Whether it was through adaptive sports, fitness activities, or building teamwork skills, Coach Waters emphasized the importance of cooperation and empathy.
“Teamwork is a concept that, once mastered, can be utilized throughout life,” he often says. He believes strongly that sports are more than just physical activity; they are an opportunity to teach students how to work together, to empathize, and to achieve shared goals.
Beyond his work in physical education, Coach Waters has made significant contributions to the Spectrum360 | Academy360 community. For two decades, he facilitated an overnight weekend respite program, providing parents with much-needed relief. He also led after-school programs, developed a basketball team, and helped create a scouting program for special needs students.
Coach Waters’ dedication has not gone unnoticed. In 2016, he was honored with the first Emile “Bo” Cattano Pioneer Spirit Award by New Providence High School, recognizing his remarkable influence in the world of special needs athletics. In 2018, he was named an outstanding staff member by Spectrum360.
His induction into the Newark Athletic Hall of Fame is a testament to his lifelong commitment to Newark and its youth, as well as his tireless dedication to individuals with special needs. This honor celebrates his contributions not only as a teacher and coach but also as a role model who has positively influenced the community.
The induction ceremony will take place on Thursday October 24, 2024 at Best Western Robert Treat Hotel. For more information, visit https://newarkathletichalloffame.org/.