June 11, 2001

Fairfield, Conn. -- Head women's crew coach Andre Albert announced the Stags' annual team awards, including the Margerite O'Meara award which went to junior coxswain Jessica DeMarco. The awards were selected by the crew coaching staff.

A most valuable athlete award was given to a member of each boat, as well as a coach's award. Freshman Aileen Rueter received the novice 4+ MVP award, after helping the boat become a driving force late in the spring season. The novice 8+ MVP trophy went to Mary Clare Finnen, who was an instrumental member of the boat which placed second at the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference (MAAC) championships. Elizabeth Borella earned the novice second MVP honor. Katie Gill, who worked her way to the varsity boats by the end of the year, was named the Novice of the Year.

Kristen Handalian secured the junior varsity 8 most valuable athlete honor, helping the boat compete against the region's top competition all season long. The varsity 8 MVP belonged to Kathleen Bradler, a key rower in Fairfield's gold-medal boat at the MAAC championship.

Leigh Terry captured the coach's award, chosen for her overall dedication and performance throughout the Fall, 2000 and Spring, 2001 campaigns. Terry rowed with the varsity 4 and 8 boats during the year. Jessica DeMarco garnered the Margerite O'Meara award, an honor bestowed for her service both on the water, in the classroom as well as in the community. DeMarco participated in several community projects, most of which she led as co-president of Fairfield University's Student-Athlete Advisory Council.

Fairfield University completed its fourth varsity season under head coach Andre Albert. The Stags, which won the MAAC championship in 2000, placed second in the conference this year.