"I cannot describe to you the happiness I felt on that amazing night," said Gaby Lesniak, a Bishop Ryan alumna who was recently awarded the 2008 Marsden Trophy honouring the University of Waterloo's Female Athlete of the Year.

It was an emotional evening for the fourth year kinesiology scholar-athlete when Judy McCrae, the Warriors athletic director stepped to the podium and announced -- "as is our tradition here at the University of Waterloo, we bestow upon you our highest honour -- induction in the Waterloo Hall of Fame."

"I was shaking all over," said the three-time Academic All-Canadian upon hearing her name called. And making the evening even more emotional was the unexpected presence of Gaby's parents, Walter and Maria.

"I was crying. My parents surprised me and attended the (awards) evening. They had known for about a week (about my award and induction) but didn't tell me."

Clearly, the selection of the varsity volleyball captain as the creme de la creme was a popular choice among her Warrior mates. "When they called my name, I got a standing ovation from the whole hall -- everybody stood up and cheered for me," said the former OUA Rookie of the Year and CIS All Rookie Team member.

"I was overwhelmed with happiness because I got to share this beautiful moment with my parents, all my best friends -- not just my teammates -- but, all of the athletes. They are my brothers and sisters who have supported me through my journey. We are like a family at Waterloo."

Gaby Jobst, coach of the Warrior volleyballers and former member of Canada's national team was thrilled that her prize pupil was the recipient of the prestigious prize.

"Watching Gaby on the podium receiving her award" was a special moment for the former Ohio State University (OSU) All Star.

"There are so many wonderful memories of Gaby (over her career) from practice and games that culminated in that moment (on the podium) which was so deservingly hers.

"She is a unique woman," said the Warriors skipper. "She's a mix of talent, charm, charisma, competitiveness -- and -- she even has a quirky side to her. She's the kind of person you meet and you simply like right away -- good karma, a fun attitude, and a genuinely friendly nature that just draws you in"

And on the court, "Gaby's usually on fire," said the Waterloo coach, recognized as one of the best athletes in OSU's 100-year history.

"Gaby's the go-to-girl. When we need a kill she's definitely the one people look to, to finish the play."

Joe Lackovic, Gaby's Celtics coach considers her one of the founders of the strong Bishop Ryan volleyball program of the late 1990s and 2000s.

She clearly left a legacy. "Members of our volleyball teams who weren't even in high school still talk about Gaby at BR," said Lackovic. "A coach could not be prouder."

And the Warriors athletic director concluded, "Gaby is so personable -- so engaging. She has been the centre of our women's volleyball program rejuvenation and can take great pride in this. She shares all her accolades with her teammates."

Count Gaby Lesniak among the illustrious list of Bishop Ryan graduates who will celebrate 50 years of rich Celtic tradition the weekend of May 23-25.

Check www.wearebr50.com for details.