May 4, 2006

Providence, R.I. - Wildcat seniors Marina Muncan and Brett Stassfurth were recognized by the BIG EAST conference as Villanova's 2005-06 women's and men's BIG EAST/Aeropostale Scholar-Athletes.

Muncan, a ten-time All-American, most recently ran the anchor leg of Villanova's winning DMR team at the Penn Relays. Her time of 4:31.85 represented a career-best anchor split and propelled `Nova to its 28th Penn Relays crown and first DMR title since 1997. She was named the U.S. Track and Field and Cross Country Coaches Association (USTFCCCA) Mid-Atlantic Division I Track Athlete of the Year in 2006 after winning two indoor BIG EAST titles in the 1000m and the mile events. Muncan placed fifth in the indoor NCAA mile with a time of 4:42.13. A member of the 2006 Philadelphia Inquirer Academic All-Area Cross Country team, she will graduate with a degree in Italian Language and Literature.

Stassfurth, a team co-captain, earned a spot on the Philadelphia Soccer Seven All-Star team this past season. He was second on the team in goals with three and also had two assists for a total of eight points. He posted one game-winning goal. As a midfielder, Stassfurth controlled the tempo of the game and team using his experience as a three-year starter. He will graduate with dual degrees in Economics and Sociology.

BIG EAST/Aeropostale Scholar-Athletes recognition goes to outstanding student-athletes who represent the high level of achievement in the classroom and on the playing field expected of BIG EAST athletes. The award winners receive a scholarship for post-graduate studies.