BRUNSWICK, Maine – Lynn Ruddy, the longest-tenured member of the Bowdoin Athletic Department, has announced that she will retire at the end of the 2020-21 academic year.

Currently the Associate Director of Athletics for Facilities and assistant coach of track & field, Ruddy was a trailblazing member of the Bowdoin Athletic Department, hired as just the second full-time female coach in 1976. In addition to working with the track & field program, Ruddy was the first head coach of the Bowdoin volleyball team, served as head coach of softball and as an assistant for swimming & diving during her time at Bowdoin.

"Lynn Ruddy has been a transformational leader within the Bowdoin Athletic Department," said Ashmead White Director of Athletics Tim Ryan. "The College is grateful for all she has done in support of our students and local community. Through her mentorship of students, coaches and administrators Lynn has positively impacted countless members of our community as our department has evolved over the last 45 years. Her tireless work ethic and good-natured ribbing will be sorely missed in the years ahead."

"It's hard to believe that so much time has gone by!" said Ruddy. "I guess that's what happens when you enjoy what you are doing and you are surrounded by wonderful people.  Most of all I will miss coaching our students as that has been the best part of each day!"

As the first head coach of the Polar Bear volleyball program (1986-2000) Ruddy originated a program that is now considered one of the best in Division III and finished her career with 212 victories, still the most in team history. She also served as head coach of the softball program for three seasons (1987-89) and was a long-time assistant coach of swimming & diving (1976-1987). Throughout her career, Ruddy coached numerous All-American athletes in both track & field and swimming.

Locally, Ruddy is well-known throughout the State of Maine, and particularly within the Midcoast region, as the primary point of contact for countless school districts and community organizations in coordinating the use of Bowdoin athletic facilities.  Ruddy was instrumental in the organization of NCAA championship events, regional youth track meets, youth soccer tournaments and hundreds of high school and middle school contests that the College hosted during her tenure.

A proud native of Wisconsin, Ruddy is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh.