Hall of Fame induction opens a floodgate of gratitude for Paula Hodgdon

by Michael Kmack, USM Public Affairs

GORHAM, Maine - Paula Hodgdon is a hall of famer three times over. For the many people whose lives she touched, each new accolade is a welcome chance to show her their gratitude.

Hodgdon coached generations of athletes across multiple sports at the University of Southern Maine. The Maine Field Hockey Association (MFHA) decided last year to honor her career by inducting her into its hall of fame

The hall threw a party for new inductees at the Augusta Civic Center in December. But Hodgdon's fellow Huskies wanted to do something special just for her. They planned a reception for Hodgdon on February 25 at the Costello Sports Complex on the Gorham campus.

"I always love to come back here, but I haven't been for a long time. It's nice to see people that I worked with," Hodgdon said. "I really enjoy everything about the University of Southern Maine."

The University was still known as Gorham State College when Hodgdon arrived in 1967 as an associate professor of Physical Education. Athletic opportunities for women were extremely limited. Almost immediately, Hodgdon began working with administration to create women's varsity teams in basketball, field hockey, and volleyball. More sports would soon follow.

Hodgdon stepped in wherever she was needed. At various points in her career, she coached basketball, skiing, and lacrosse. The one constant was field hockey. She dedicated 31 years to the program until her retirement in 1997.  READ MORE


The hall of fame celebration took place in the Alumni Reception Room at the Costello Sports Complex.