Paul Joseph Haggerty

West Point, 1991

Be Thou At Peace

Posted by John Mailman on March 15, 1998:

I first heard Coach Haggerty's name as a Freshman when we sang our traditional 12 Nights of Christmas carol in the Mess Hall after the Christmas dinner. This line was stated by Coach Riley many times since Haggs had graduated, "A chance to play with Paul Haggerty." I knew then and there that he must have been an incredible asset to Army's team while he was here. What I didn't know was that his talents on the ice, in my estimation, were overshadowed by his true love of his family, players, and ability to influence others through his quiet actions. Haggs served as a mentor, friend, and coach to all of the players that were on his teams. I looked to him as a solid role model, both on and off the ice. He was a terrific father to his kids, loving husband, and true friend, even when things didn't go the way that you may have hoped they would. He was able to put things into perspective for those of us, who had trouble at times doing this. He understood the rigors of Cadet live, but at the same time, let us know that we still chose to come here and must play by the rules, whether we liked them or not. Coach was able to instill in me confidence that I had lacked after two years here, both on and off the ice. However, it is the off ice contributions that Coach Haggs had made to me that I will always cherish and emulate throughout my life. I know that his advice and mentorship has made me a better person, and I owe a great deal of thanks for his unselfish time and caring. Coach, I will miss you a lot. I am extremely thankful that I was given the chance to know you, both as a coach and friend.

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