Feb. 7, 2008

PHILADELPHIA, PA- The La Salle University Athletic Department hosted a `National Girls & Women in Sports Day' luncheon at Tom Gola Arena on Thursday afternoon.  Over 200 female and male student-athletes, coaches, administrators, faculty and honored guests gathered for the 22^nd annual celebration of girls and women in sports.

"I thought the turnout was great by both the male athletes and coaches to show support for the women and what they do- its nice to be recognized," said keynote speaker and La Salle Women's Basketball Associate Head Coach Chrissie Doogan. 

Doogan had a stellar basketball career at La Salle, named the Big Five `Rookie of the Year in 1994 and Big Five `Player of the Year' in 1995.  She also made the Atlantic 10 All-Conference first team in 1997. 

La Salle honored special guest Mary Frances Maginn- who worked for three different athletic directors at La Salle in her 28 years of service to the athletic department.

Also in attendance were a group of sixth-grade girls from James Logan Elementary School, with whom members of La Salle's Project Teamwork are involved with. 

Assistant Athletic Director for Compliance/Senior Woman Administrator Mary Ellen Wydan brought the event to campus for the seventh year in a row.

"We were excited because it was our largest turnout ever and we really had a diverse audience in attendance," said Wydan.