MILFORD--Lauralton Hall’s inaugural Athletic Hall of Fame was a resounding success! Over 225 friends, alumnae and sports enthusiasts joined the Lauralton community in recognizing seven exceptional individuals who were nominated for achieving greatness or who have made outstanding contributions to Lauralton’s rich athletic tradition. The event was held on Sunday, May 6, at Racebrook Country Club in Orange.

The keynote speaker was renowned Olympic soccer player Kristine Lilly, a three-time Olympian - bringing home a Gold Medal in 1996 and 2004, and a Silver in 2000 - who holds a number of records for scoring, minutes played, and most capped player. 

Kristine made the U.S. National Team at the age of 16 while a junior at Wilton High School and went on to play 352 games for her country, more than any other person in the world. Kristine also played in five World Cup events and was U.S. Soccer Player of the Year in 1993, 2005, and 2006.

Lauralton has a long and proud history of excellence in athletics. “Since it was founded in 1905,” said Lauralton President Anotinette Iadorla, Ph.D., Lauralton has acknowledged the importance of balance between exercising the mind and the body of our young women. Now it is time to publically recognize the excellence and determination of our athletes and those who helped build and inspire Lauralton’s athletic tradition. Their contributions will forever be an inspiration to new generations.”

The 2012 honorees are Nora Anderson Barber, DDS, ’95; Laura Valade Collins, ’88; Eileen Richetelli Crozier, ’90; Jairus C. Gilbert, Sr. (posthumously); Mary Money, ’76; Margaret A. Rooney, RSM, ’51; and Karen McGroary Yardley. Each of the honorees has made outstanding contributions not only in the field of athletics, but they have also distinguished themselves in their careers and in their commitment to community service.

Information was provided by Lauralton Hall.

Each inductee was introduced by a presenter who shed light on their many accomplishments. For further information on the inductees or the Lauralton Hall Athletic Hall of Fame, please contact Kathleen Donahue at 203-877-2786, ext. 114, or kdonahue@lauraltonhall.org.

 

 PHOTO CAPTION: (left to right)

· Nicolle Camara , Athletic Director

· Marnie Sinclair, daughter of Jairus Gilbert, from upstate NY

· Jennifer Seabury Shepard,’05, granddaughter of Jairus Gilbert, from Vernon, CT

· Margaret A. Rooney, RSM, ’51, from South Windsor, CT

· Eileen Richetelli Crozier, ’90, from Milford, CT

· Mary Money, ’76, from Fairfield, CT

· Karen McGroary Yardley, from Southington, CT

· Laura Valade Collins,’88, from Dover, MA (family from Trumbull, CT)

· Nora Anderson Barber, DDS, ’95, from Cary, North Carolina

· Antoinette Iadarola, Ph.D. – President Lauralton Hall

· Kristine Lilly, Keynote Speaker