The Suffolk Sports Hall of Fame is sad to learn about the passing of inductee Patrica Habers. She was 84 and living in Georgia.

Habers, a member of the Class of 2009, was a well respected local official in many sports.

The Kings Park resident held a state rating in officiating for over 30 years particularly in the sport of field hockey, as well as volleyball, softball and basketball.

“Pat is a legend and icon in field hockey,” said Suffolk Sports Hall of Famer Rick Mercurio, who also served as a field hockey official. “She recruited countless men and women into becoming involved with officiating field hockey. She was a mentor and educator throughout her years. Her impact on the acceptance and betterment of women’s athletes and sport will forever more continue. She made everyone feel like they were her best friend. I will always keep her in my thoughts and memories.”

She served as President of the New York State Field Hockey Association for five years.

Habers was responsible for implementing many new ideas, organizing clinics and proposed programs and publishing a newsletter for all State sections and coaches.