Falcons honored at national level for outstanding sportsmanship throughout the season

The Fitchburg State women's lacrosse team was named the 2009 NCAA Division III Sportsmanship Award recipient this past week as announced by John Blanchard, Chairman of the Committee on Sportsmanship and Ethical Conduct.

Earlier this season, the Fitchburg State women's lacrosse earned the first annual Massachusetts State College Athletic Conference (MASCAC) Presidential Sportsmanship Award and was among several finalists to receive the NCAA's National Sportsmanship Award of the Year. These awards are given to an individual or team who has distinguished themselves through sportsmanship and ethical behavior on and off the field.

In two instances this season, the Fitchburg State women's lacrosse team exemplified true sportsmanship, aiding visiting opponents when officials determined their equipment illegal. In the first instance, the University of Southern Maine's goalie stick was longer than regulation length, but the Falcons used a saw on hand to cut the stick down to regulation size.

In the second scenario, the goalkeeper of Thomas College misplaced her stick earlier in the week. Finally, instead of making the keeper play with a normal field stick that is significantly smaller, the Falcons offered a backup net minder's stick for the match.

"I am absolutely thrilled for our team" said head coach Rick Terrio. "To talk about sportsmanship is one thing, but to talk about it and show it, is another. Overall, when it comes to sportsmanship, you need to speak it, display it, and promote it."

In just his second season at helm, Terrio led the Fitchburg State women's lacrosse team to a successful 2009 campaign. The Falcons posted a program-best six wins throughout the season, while missing a post-season berth by only one contest. Terrio named four athletes to the New England Women's Lacrosse Alliance (NEWLA) All-Conference team, including the 2009 NEWLA Rookie of the Year.

For more information regarding NCAA Division III Sportsmanship Award or Fitchburg State lacrosse, please contact Sports Information Director, Keith Brouillard at 978-665-3343 or via email at kbrouil3@fsc.edu.

Courtesy of Fitchburg State Sports Information