Hilda Arrechea, head coach of the women’s volleyball program for 27 seasons, carved a legacy marked by passion, dedication, and outstanding success. Her steady leadership and perseverance built the team into a competitive force, with an impressive record of 552-339, which includes 15 consecutive winning seasons, 18 in total, and a school record of 38 victories in 1999 alone.
Under her guidance, the Thoroughbreds clinched four Liberty League championships and made eight appearances in the NCAA Division III Tournament, marking them as a force in collegiate volleyball. Arrechea's leadership earned her four Liberty League Coaching Staff of the Year awards, underscoring her exceptional influence in the sport.
Beyond the court, Arrechea's impact is measured by the success and character of her players, with her teams garnering more than 150 league playing and academic awards. Her student-athletes received 20 All-America honors and two players achieved College Sports Communicators Academic All-America awards, highlighting the dual emphasis on athletic and academic excellence. Two of her teams and five standout athletes have been inducted into the Skidmore Athletics Hall of Fame.
Arrechea's legacy at Skidmore extends beyond wins and trophies. She fostered a culture of integrity and mutual respect that emphasized personal growth as much as athletic achievement.
“Hilda has been the face of Skidmore volleyball since 1995, and it is challenging to fully describe what Hilda has meant to the overall success of the program," said Skidmore Assistant Vice President of Student Affairs and Director of Athletics Gail Cummings-Danson. “She not only built a winning program but also shaped a community that thrives on respect, hard work, and a deep love for the game.”
