September 18, 2009
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Carole Grills
(413) 585-2703

Ruth Ness Joins Smith Lacrosse Staff

Northampton, MA: 2005 University of New England graduate Ruth Ness has joined the Smith College lacrosse staff. Ruth has enrolled in the Masters Program in the Exercise and Sport Studies Department and is expected to receive her degree in May, 2012.

An Art Education studies major, Ness graduated with Magna Cum Laude honors.  She played lacrosse all four years at UNE, captained the team and received Commonwealth Coast All Conference first and second team honors.  She was named UNE's Female Athlete of the Year for the 2004-2005 academic year and received Academic All Conference honors from 2002-05.  From 2005-07, she served as a graduate assistant lacrosse coach at Marlborough College in Marlborough, England and played on the West of England territorial team and Berkshire Wanderness lacrosse teams.  She followed that with assistant coaching positions at UNE and Messiah. Coach Wendy Walker is pleased that Ruth has joined her coaching staff. "Ruth brings our athletic department, and lacrosse program, the combination of an impressive playing career and four years of coaching experience.  Her lacrosse experience, both as a player and coach, represent dedication, hard work and commitment to the sport.  She has traveled abroad to share  her enthusiasm, worked various camps and clinics, and most recently served as the assistant lacrosse coach at the 2009 NCAA Division III tournament participant, Messiah College.  She brings a competitive attitude, creative perspective and commitment to success at Smith.  She is eager to jump in and will be a valuable addition to our coaching staff."