Pictured, left to right, are: Westfield State President Evan S. Dobelle, Curt Robie, and Westfield State athletics director Richard Lenfest. (Courtesy of WSU SID)
WESTFIELD – Curt Robie, assistant vice president of facilities and operations at Westfield State University, was the recipient of the 2012 James C. Hagan Award for outstanding service and support to WSU athletics. The prestigious award was presented at the 17th Annual Westfield State Athletics Hall of Fame banquet in front of an overflow crowd of 200 people.
Master of ceremonies David Caspole (’94) of the Westfield State development office spoke about Robie’s many accomplishments, including his work spearheading the upkeep of Alumni Field, replacement of the turf and track (both in 1991 and 2006); a new practice field; new dugouts for the softball and baseball fields; a new press box; and several major renovations to the swimming pool in Ely Hall. In addition, Robie worked long hours in the early 2000s overseeing the building of the Woodward Center that houses the athletics and movement science departments.
“It’s impossible to envision what the Westfield State athletics programs might look like today were it not for the work of Curt Robie,” said Westfield State athletics director Richard Lenfest. “Recruiting and retention would have suffered. The opportunity for students to practice, compete, condition, and rehab would be compromised. The quality of the facilities built – and the ongoing maintenance and upgrades to keep those facilities clean, fresh, and modern – was, and still is facilitated through the dedication of Curt Robie.”
Robie was also applauded for his community service work, serving on the boards of the Gateway Little League and Westfield Babe Ruth. A successful grant application submitted by Robie netted Westfield High School $50,000 to build a weight room. Robie also serves as a reserve police officer in his hometown of Middlefield.
Robie has been employed at Westfield State since 1981 and is the former director of residential life. A 1974 graduate of Westfield State, Robie and his wife, Patricia, are regular spectators at Owl sporting events.
