April 12, 2007

PHILADELPHIA - After posting one of the best individual seasons in Saint Joseph's women's basketball history, senior guard Ayahna Cornish was recognized as team MVP at the Hawks' 31st Annual Awards Banquet, held Wednesday night at the Hilton on City Ave.

A two-time co-captain, Cornish finished fourth in the Atlantic 10 and 89th nationally in scoring this past season, averaging 16.5 points per game. Her 546 points on the year are the seventh most in single-season history and she finished her collegiate career 12th all-time in scoring with 1,235 points. Selected to the Atlantic 10 All-Conference Second Team, the Philadelphia native helped the Hawks to the A-10 title game and the program's 21st postseason berth this past year. Cornish, who was also named to the A-10 All-Tournament Team and Courtyard Classic and Hawk Classic All-Tournament Teams, was also awarded the team's Best Offensive Player award on Wednesday.

Among others honored at the banquet were seniors Whitney Ffrench (Chris DiJulia Inspirational Award, and Loyalty and Leadership Award), Zoya Pavlovskaya (Reverend Emory Ross Award for Academic Excellence), Erica Pollock (Best Defensive Player), junior Krista Hutchison (Roosevelt Hunter Community Service Award) and sophomores Jenna Loschiavo (Most Improved Player) and Mary Kate McDade (Patricia Ryan Unsung Hero Award). The Hawks also recognized Helen Magee as Saint Joseph's Fan of the Year and Father Gerard McGlone, S.J. and Dr. Linda Lelii, Vice President for Student Life and Academic Development, for their support for the Saint Joseph's women's basketball program.