Charlottesville, VA (cvillerightnow.com): As part of National Girls and Women in Sports Day yesterday, UVA Athletic Director Carla Williams and President Jim Ryan honored six current and former UVA students who competed at the Paris Olympics last summer.  

 The Olympians made time for an autograph session with local fans and were treated to a warm reception from the Athletic Department.  Also on hand were several current stars of UVA athletics, including several members of the UVA Field Hockey and Volleyball squads.  They answered questions and demonstrated key aspects of their sports, much to the delight of eager young fans, who, no doubt, gained valuable insights on several athletic disciplines. 

 The day culminated in a half-time ceremony during yesterday’s Women’s Basketball game with Louisville.  Those honored included Pole Vault National Champion Bridget Williams, paralympic rowing silver medalist Sky Dahl, and Team Nigeria shot putter Ashley Anumba.   Also present were vaunted USA Swim medalists Aimee Canny, Alex Walsh, and Gretchen Walsh, fresh off a dominant performance at the Texas Showdown over Texas, Arizona State, and NC State.