HUNTSVILLE, Ont. - Ontario University Athletics (OUA) recognized nineteen female scholar-athletes from across the province at a luncheon held on May 8 at Deerhurst Resort in Huntsville, Ont.

The event honoured female student-athletes who have excelled in their chosen sports and fields of study. Dual-sport national athlete, Olympic gold medalist and OUA alumnus Heather Moyse spoke at the event. Moyse told those in attendance about her personal Olympic journey. She recognized the passion, determination and time it takes to be an outstanding athlete, but also emphasized the importance of balance and perspective. As a former OUA student-athlete and an elite performer, Heather knows what it takes to achieve great things, and applauded the young women for their academic, athletic and community accomplishments.

"It was great to meet them, and hear about everything they've accomplished up to date," said Moyse. "To be amongst peers was wonderful, and I think everyone had a great time. It's awesome to see women making a mark doing something that they love, and positively influencing others while they do it."

Carli Yim, Ryerson's 2012 Woman of Influence served as valedictorian for the award winners, and was equally pleased about the day's events.

"I think the importance of this event is self-evident, celebrating women in sport is so necessary. It helps all of us celebrate our goals, and gives us the push to set new ones, and achieve them," said Yim. "Heather was so inspiring, particularly as a former OUA athlete. Hearing her journey and her thoughts along her path to success was so insightful."

OUA recognizes and thanks the following sponsors for their support of this event; belairdirect, Centaur Products, Pioneer Energy, Wilson Sports Equipment of Canada and Canadian Association for the Advancement of Women and Sport and Physical Activity (CAAWS).

Congratulations to this year's OUA Women of Influence:

Brock Badgers: Jessica Del Signore, Physical Education, Basketball
Carleton Ravens: Evelyn Marshall, Political Science, Water Polo
Guelph Gryphons: Kylen Van Osch, Biomedical Science, Volleyball
Lakehead Thunderwolves: Emma Brightwell, Sociology, Wrestling
Laurentian Lady Vees: Emily Jones, Sport/Physical Education, Swimming
McMaster Marauders: Natasha Turner, Honours Arts & Science, Rugby
Nipissing Lakers: TaraLynn Ray, Education, Cross Country
UOIT Ridgebacks: Christie Attwood, Kinesiology, Rowing
Ottawa Gee-Gees: Elise Desjardins, Human Kinetics, Soccer
Queen's Gaels: Katie Matthews, Honours Science, Volleyball
RMC Paladins: Chantal Boucher, Honours Chemistry, Fencing
Ryerson Rams: Carli Yim, Radio/Television Arts, Volleyball
Toronto Varsity Blues: Katherine McNeill, Physical Education, Field Hockey
Trent Excaliber: Daniela Sheinin, History, Swimming
Waterloo Warriors: Jessica Lawson, Science & Business, Field Hockey
Western Mustangs: Jennifer Martins, Dentistry, Rowing
Wilfrid Laurier Golden Hawks: Laura Crocker, Psychology, Curling
Windsor Lancers: Erika Reiser, Kinesiology, Track and Field
York Lions: Kathryn Pistor, Kinesiology, Track and Field/Cross Country