FAIRFIELD, Conn. – Sami Carey led the 10 members of the Fairfield University women's cross country team that competed this morning at the Fr. Victor F. Leeber, S.J. Invitational. The Stags finished third at their annual home meet, just six points shy of a second-place showing.
Carey finished the 5K course around the Fairfield University campus with a time of 20:44.32 to place 16th. She was closely followed by Allison Campbell in 19th place (20:52.06) and Jacqueline-Ann Willsey in 20th (20:55.99).
Also crossing the line in the top half of the 63-harrier field were Sarah Morrissette (21:18.94), Julia Wood (21:20.94), Katie Kern (21:29.08) and Kaylee Bergen (22:11.04).
Rounding out the Stags' competing in the meet were Shannon Lavin (22:54.91), Ashley Cambisaca (22:57.34) and Hayley Roberts (24:02.04).
The Stags aggregated 75 points, six tallies behind second-place Wagner.
Boasting the first five finishers to break the tape, Sacred Heart won the team title with the minimum of 15 points. Shannon Hickey claimed the individual crown, setting the pace with a time of 19:18.99.
In addition to today's races, Fairfield University cross country has dedicated the presentation that followed the action as the Fr. W. Laurence O'Neil, S.J. Award Ceremony. Director of Athletics Gene Doris and the Rev. Charles H. Allen, S.J. provided remarks for the ceremony, which included presentations for the men's and women's team champions, the top-10 finishers of each race, and a recognition of Fairfield's seniors running in their final home meet.
The Stags return to action on Friday, Oct. 2 in Bethlehem, Pa. at the Paul Short Run hosted by Lehigh.
About Fr. Victor F. Leeber, S.J.
Fr. Victor F. Leeber, S.J. was perhaps one of the most prominent figures in the history of Fairfield University. His tenure began in 1947 as he joined the faculty as a language instructor and an academic advisor.
Best known for his love of athletics, Fr. Leeber asked for and received permission to start a cross country and track & field program in 1948. He was named the head coach of the cross country team and served in that capacity until 1950.
Fr. Leeber remained active in the athletic department, as he was the team chaplain for both the men's basketball and football teams until his retirement.
Officially dubbed the “Father of Sports” at Fairfield, Fr. Leeber was inducted into the Fairfield University Alumni Association Athletics Hall of Fame in 1992. Fr. Leeber passed away in August 2009 at the age of 87.
About Fr. W. Laurence O'Neil, S.J.
Fr. W. Laurence O'Neil, S.J., was the Stags' chaplain and a counselor to Fairfield's student-athletes. Fr. O'Neil joined the Fairfield community in 1955 when he began working at Fairfield Prep. In 1972, he was appointed the Director of Career Counseling at Fairfield University, a position he held for 15 years.
Fr. O'Neil also spent seven years as the Dean of Students and worked as the International Student Advisor. He joined the Athletics staff in 2006 where he was beloved by student-athletes, coaches, and staff alike. He passed away in October 2009.
