Harker, Ruth 2019

Ruth Harker: As you read Ruth’s accomplishments, keep in mind that she really didn’t start playing soccer until she was 14 and while being an all around athlete playing every sport she could, Ruth has been blind in her left eye since birth.  While still in high school and before entering the college ranks, Ruth traveled to Europe with the Trammel-Crow Women Team and played games in Sweden and Finland.  Refining her skills to the delight of Coach Ken Hudson, Ruth started her college career at UMSL playing for a Division II school with a Division I schedule.  From 1982-85, Ruth was awarded All-Region and All-West First Team honors.  Records of her accomplishments still are in the record books of UMSL and NCAA for Solo shut-outs and Record Shut-Out %, plus a number of other records.  In 1985 the team honored her with the MVP award.  Participating in the Missouri Olympic Development Program, she was chosen for 3 Olympic Festivals winning the MVP award along with a Bronze medal.  From 1985-86 Ruth was also a part of the United States Women’s National Team and in 1985 participated in the Inaugural World Cup European matches recognized by USSF and FIFA. ( First year of the current World Cup).  1987 was also the First USSF Women’s North American Cup.  Always giving back to the game she loves, Ruth has coached at the school, club, and University levels along with being the constant volunteer for organizations such as Easter Seals, YMCA, and Mathews-Dickey Boys and Girls Club.

Ruth was Inducted into the UMSL Athletes Hall of Fame 2/21/2020