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Hamilton (February 3, 2009) - Ontario University Athletics (OUA) will recognize top female scholar-athletes from across the province at the sixth annual Women of Influence Luncheon on Tues., Feb. 10, 2009 from 12 noon to 2 p.m. at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre (North Building), 255 Front Street West in Toronto, Ont. Queen's representative this year will be rower Connie Dayboll of Grimsby, Ont.
The event honours female student-athletes who have excelled in their chosen sports and fields of study. This year's guest speaker will be Canadian Olympian and OUA Champion For Life Tonya Verbeek. The Brock University graduate became the first Canadian woman ever to win a medal in wresting, claiming silver in 55 kg freestyle at the 2004 Summer Olympics in Athens. Four years later in Beijing, Verbeek won a bronze medal to become the most decorated Canadian wrestler at the Olympic Games.
As an elite athlete, her accomplishments extend far beyond the mat she competes on. Tonya serves as a role model in her community, sharing her journey with students to encourage them to strive for their athletic aspirations while always emphasizing the importance of academics as well. She is an inspiring reminder that success is meant to be shared.
Join OUA as Tonya recounts her journey to becoming a successful Olympian and how she uses her success and experiences to help guide others to achieve their goals and reach their dreams. Tickets to the luncheon are $88.20 each (taxes included) and can be purchased by calling Lisa Constanzo at 416-923-1688 ext. 23 or via e-mail at lconstanzo@powerpointgroup.com.
OUA has profiled its top female scholar athletes on a weekly basis leading up to the luncheon on OUA.ca. For previous bios, click here. OUA recognizes the following sponsors for their support of this event; belairdirect., Canadian Advancement of Women and Sport and Physical Activity, Centaur Products, Pioneer Petroleums and Wilson Sports Equipment of Canada.
Queen's University
Name: Connie Dayboll
Sport: Rowing
Program: Nursing
Hometown: Grimsby, Ont.
Dayboll, who majored in Nursing, was one of the leaders of the Gaels women's rowing team that captured both the provincial and national university rowing championships in 2008. Dayboll captured two gold medals at the provincial championship, and then claimed gold in the lightweight single at the national finals.
She concluded her career at Queen's winning eight gold medals at the OUA Rowing Championships, and was a catalyst for the women's team that has earned three OUA titles and one silver medal in four seasons.
Dayboll graduated in June, 2008 from Queen's School of Nursing with a degree in Nursing Science.
