University of Richmond Athletics
Spiders Honor Senior Student-Athletes
April 20, 2004
UNIVERSITY OF RICHMOND, Va. - The University of Richmond Department of Athletics honored its senior class with the 2003-04 Student-Athlete Celebration held on campus in the Tyler Haynes Commons Monday night.
Master of Ceremonies Bob Black directed the evening that included gifts for every senior student-athlete and special presentations for individuals recognized for their outstanding contributions.
Senior Jon Lauder welcomed the assembled group of student-athletes by chronicling the improvement of each sport from the time he walked on campus until the impending day when he will walk across the stage.
Head coaches from the 19 varsity sports escorted their respective senior classes to the stage for special acknowledgment. Senior women's tennis player Patty Devlin followed with her reflections on the challenges and rewards of being a Division I student-athlete at Richmond.
The individual awards began with the Presidential Citation presentation, given to the male and female student-athlete graduating with the highest grade point average. Dean of Richmond College Dr. Stephen Bisese honored Seann Mulcahy of the cross country/track team, while Dean of Westhampton College Dr. Juliette Landphair honored women's tennis player Patty Devlin.
The Spider Student-Athletes of the Year were given an award from Spider Club representative Alison Carlton, a 1997 Richmond graduate and women's soccer player. Field Hockey's Lydia Decembrino, men's basketball's Tony Dobbins and men's tennis' David Donn were honored for their outstanding achievements. Student-athletes competing during the spring season could be added at a later date.
The Humbert Award, given to a senior who displays exceptional athletic, leadership and scholarship qualities, is presented at graduation but announced at this banquet. Men's Soccer's Tim Bezbatchenko and swimming's Casey Dluhos were honored this year. The Donnie Lindsey First Year Spirit Award was given to men's golf freshman John Pelet for his athletic and inspirational attributes.
Richmond also announced its inaugural class in Chi Alpha Sigma, a national college student honor society. The first class, rewarding high academic scholarship, good citizenship, moral character and friendship in collegiate athletics, consisted of 21 student-athletes.
Director of Athletics Jim Miller closed the ceremony with congratulations for the achievements already grasped and encouragement for those still to come.