University of Vermont Athletic Hall of Fame
Robert H. Schroeder 1968 - Football, Hockey, Soccer
A 1991 UVM Hall of Fame inductee and truly one of the most versatile athletes to perform for the Catamounts, Bob Schroeder actually played two varsity sports at one time and practiced a third.
"It was truly remarkable to me that he played two varsity sports at one time (soccer and football) and practiced a third (hockey) in his spare time," said his former hockey coach Jim Cross.
A defensive standout for the soccer and hockey teams, Schroeder also kicked extra points and field goals on Saturday afternoons in 1967. Earning the reputation as one of the best backs in New England soccer, he was chosen All-Yankee Conference in 1967 when leading the Catamounts to their second consecutive conference crown.
Needing a kicker for his football team, head coach Bob Clifford asked Schroeder to join his squad in 1967. Schroeder agreed and played two varsity sports in one season, earning letters in both.
In hockey, he was All-State for three years and left the program as UVM's all-time top-scoring defenseman with six goals, 34 assists for 40 points.
"It might sound trite, but Bob Schroeder was a heady defensemen who rarely made mistakes in his own end. A coach's dream, he also played within his limitations, " said Cross. "That was 'Schrods'. After a game was over, you couldn't remember anything sensational that he had done, but more important, neither could you recall any bad plays. It is very similar to an official who does a good job."
He was presented the Semans Trophy in 1968, given to the senior athlete "who is outstanding in the respect and regard of their fellow students for leadership, loyalty and service to the University, and for active participation in athletics."
In the early 70's, Schroeder taught and coached hockey at Gunnery School, where he was also the Dean of Students.
