"Ruth stood out on several teams during her time at Lyndon. She was as team player and responded well to coaching. She was fun to have on the team!"
- Jamie Owen, former coach
Ruth Taclof Haskell '87 earned a degree in physical education at Lyndon. She was a three-sport student athlete. She played field hockey and basketball for four years, and softball for three.
Haskell and her field hockey teammates advanced to the championships her freshman year, and she ended her career on a high note as captain and Athlete-of-the-Year during her senior year. She and her basketball team did not advance to post-season play, but remained focused on attaining a respectable record.
Haskell served her team as captain as well. In softball, she served as captain and turned many heads with her ability to hit home runs. She was so good that her opponents would intentionally walk her and then try to recruit her.
Haskell was also very involved with the College's intramural program as a student. Eric Berry '91 recalls, "She was a riot, always smiling, and 110% about sportsmanship all of the time!"
Upon graduation, Haskell began her career as a physical education teacher at Bellows Falls Union High School. During this time, she was the assistant coach of the varsity field hockey team for seven years, winning two state championships. After being laid-off, Haskell went on to work 13 years in adult education and continued building her coaching career.
Haskell was a varsity softball coach for three years and umpired girls' varsity for two years. She coached junior high basketball and field hockey as well.
In 2001, Haskell moved on to Springfield Union High School to work as a health and physical education teacher. She is the assistant coach of the girl's varsity field hockey team and has served as a class advisor at Springfield since 2001. Haskell is also the community service coordinator for the school.
Haskell has been a volunteer for the Springfield Recreation Department since 2001. She created a field hockey program for the department and ran it for six years. Haskell has also coached basketball and softball for the department, volunteering every season since 2001.
Despite being very busy as a coach, Haskell has found time to compete. She played in an adult softball league out of Keene, N.H., and made two trips to national tournaments.
Haskell resides in Springfield, Vt. She is the proud mother of stepson Nate, and daughters, Jessie and Kaylee. Her husband, Gary "Moe" Haskell, passed away in May 2009. He was a football referee and baseball umpire for 30 years.
