Coach Shaler was part of the fabric of Williston athletics for more than 37 years. He founded the cross-country program in 1963, and coached the sport through 1999. He started coaching track in 1960 and served as either the head coach or assistant coach through 2000, with the exception of 1964-1968. A runner himself, he received four varsity letters in both cross-country and track at Hamilton College. He won numerous awards and served as the team’s captain for three years.

Coach Shaler is a parent of three Williston alumni; a mentor to countless Williston cross-country and track athletes; the inspiration for Williston’s Shaler Invitational cross-country race, which drew 17 teams—more than 550 runners—from around New England in 2016; and a tireless advocate for the new cross-country course at Williston. In recognition of his commitment to Williston, Coach Shaler was the recipient of the Eminent Service Award in 1999. Created in 1976, this award is presented to a member of the Williston Northampton School community by the Alumni Association in recognition of his/her extraordinary service to the school.