Nov. 9, 2004

LOUDONVILLE, N.Y. - Seniors Brian Onofry and Katie Ferry are the October recipients of the Leo Dufort Student Athlete of the Month award, it was announced by College officials today. The duo joins September recipients Christie Gustafson and Andrew Knipfing.

"Brian and Katie are tremendous ambassadors for their programs and the Siena community at large," Director of Athletics John D'Argenio said. "The athletic and academic success they have achieved at Siena will no doubt translate into similar success in their postgraduate careers."

Onofry carries a 3.85 grade point average as a political science and French dual major. On the court, he has been the #1 singles player for the men's tennis team since his arrival at Siena four years ago. This fall he posted victories in both of the team's wins ousting Peter George of Sacred Heart in the final contest of the season to help the Saints to a 5-2 triumph. Onofry was named to the MAAC All-Academic Team as a sophomore and junior.

Ferry also holds a 3.85 GPA, and is on track to graduate this May with a history education major. She started 18 of the Saints 19 games on defense, helping the team to a program-best 7-1-1 MAAC regular-season finish and the number two seed in the recently completed Conference Championships. Ferry was likewise named to the MAAC All-Academic Team for the third consecutive season prior to the Tournament.

"We are pleased to recognize Brian and Katie for their exemplary efforts in the classroom and on the playing fields," Athletic Academic Advisor Susan Yund said. "Each embodies the model for excellence we strive to have our student athletes achieve at Siena. We are proud to continually rank among the nation's elite Colleges and Universities in academic achievement, and Brian and Katie should be proud to rank among our elite representatives."

The Leo Dufort student-athlete of the month award is presented nine times annually to Siena athletes who excel on the playing fields and in the classroom.