University of Albany: October 2011

Monday, October 31, 2011

University of Albany Field Hockey's Corrine McConville Receives America East Weekly Honors - UAlbany Sports 2011

Cambridge, Mass. - Corrine McConville was named America East Conference Field Hockey Player of the Week, as announced by the league office on Monday afternoon.

McConville, 2010 America East Rookie of the Year, scored the game-winning goal in Saturday's 3-2 victory over No. 10 New Hampshire. The game-winner came off a penalty stroke opportunity to which McConville took advantage of as she lifted the ball to the top left corner of the cage, giving the Great Danes a 3-2 lead with eight minutes left in regulation. She improves to 4-for-5 on penalty stroke attempts on the season.

With the goal, McConville increases her season point total to 28 for second-best on the squad; contributing 12 goals and four assists going into the America East tournament weekend. McConville now holds a top-10 program record for single-season points. At the top of the league in shot total for the past month, McConville averages four shots per-game this season having tallied 76 in 19 regular-season games.

McConville and the Great Danes, despite the season finale win over UNH, will enter this week's America East tournament as the fourth seed and will face the Wildcats in a 1:00 p.m. semifinal game Friday, November 4th in Durham, N.H. The second semifinal game will feature Boston U. and Maine.

2011 UAlbany FCS Football Gameday vs Bryant: 11/5/11

University of Albany Football: Football Championship Subdivision (FCS)

UAlbany FCS Football Homepage

UAlbany FCS Football Roster

UAlbany FCS Football Stats

UAlbany FCS Football Media Guide

UAlbany FCS Football Game Notes

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NEXT GAME

Date: November 5, 2011
Time: 1pm
Opponent: Bryant
Location: University of Albany – Albany, NY
Facility: University Field
Directions
Tickets

Distance:
From Albany - 0m
From Syracuse – 145m
From Boston – 170m
From NYC - 157m

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2011 UAlbany FCS Football Schedule:

Sat, Sep 3 at Colgate L 34-37 --
Sat, Sep 17 Maine L 15-31 --
Sat, Sep 24 at Columbia W 44-21 --
Sat, Oct 1 at St. Francis (PA) W 41-20 --
Sat, Oct 8 Duquesne W 38-10 --
Sat, Oct 15 Robert Morris W 28-17 --
Sat, Oct 22 at Central Connecticut State W 63-35 --
Sat, Oct 29 at Wagner W 24-0 --
Sat, Nov 5 Bryant 1:00 pm --
Sat, Nov 12 at Monmouth 12:00 pm --
Sat, Nov 19 Sacred Heart 1:00 pm --

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Gameday Live Media Coverage:

FoxSports Radio - Great Dane Football
Dane Zone Webcasting

UAlbany Live Stats

Pregame Media Coverage:

Big Purple Fans - UAlbany Fan Board

Coach's Corner:

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Bryant: Football Championship Subdivision (FCS)

Football Homepage

Football Roster

Football Game Notes

Football Media Guide

Football Stats

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2011 Schedule:

Sat, Sep 3 at Maine L 13-28 --
Sat, Sep 10 American International W 27-16 --
Fri, Sep 16 at Sacred Heart W 26-6 --
Sat, Sep 24 Wagner W 30-28 --
Sat, Oct 1 at Duquesne L 28-31 --
Sat, Oct 8 Stonehill W 42-7 --
Sat, Oct 15 Monmouth L 35-40 --
Sat, Oct 22 at Robert Morris W 34-27 --
Sat, Nov 5 at Albany 1:00 pm --
Sat, Nov 12 St. Francis (PA) 12:00 pm --
Sat, Nov 19 Central Connecticut State 12:00 pm --

University of Albany Women's Soccer Advances to America East Championship With 1-0 Win Over Hartford - UAlbany Sports 2011

West Hartford, Conn. - A match highlighted by a relentless UAlbany defense, including goalkeeper Jackie Ubert's third complete shuout, and Shayla Bergeron's lone goal resulted in a Great Danes' victory over Hartford, 1-0, in the America East Conference Women's Soccer Semifinals on Monday, Oct. 31. UAlbany will play Boston U., on Saturday, Nov. 5, in its first America East finals match since entering the conference

With the match scoreless through the first half, UAlbany (10-9-1) found daylight in the 47th minute when Maggie DeVerna sent a short pass to the foot of Bergeron just inside the 18-yard box. Bergeron directed the shot just underneath the crossbar for the 1-0 lead. Hartford wouldn't go away, as the Hawks peppered Ubert with 13 shots, including two on net, but Ubert would deny them all to preserve the 1-0 win.

"I just tried to stay confident and calm," said Ubert, who has let the Great Danes to an undefeated record since taking over in goal for the last seven games. "Communication is a big part of being a goalkeeper. I just tried to talk as much as I could, give direction and support them."

The first half was powered by Hartford (13-3-3), as the Hawks led in shots, 3-1, and in corner kicks, 2-0. In the 13th minute, Hartford looked to grab the early lead when the Hawks' Arielle Aikens received a perfect through ball only to be denied by Ubert. In the 32nd minute, Hartford looked to capitalize from a corner kick with a header by Amelia Periera, but Ubert made another key save on Hartford's second shot on net to preserve the scoreless tie at half.

Overall, Hartford lead in shots, 16-4, and in corner kicks, 5-0. Hartford's Erin Quinlan saved two shots on three chances. UAlbany's Ubert denied all four shots that she saw.

"We have become a lot stronger and tighter as a defensive unit," said head coach Mary-Frances Monroe on her stellar defensive play. "This is huge. We've been on a nice run since two games into the conference season and ever since then we've started to connect and every game we've gotten a little bit better."

The Great Danes will face #14 Boston U. (17-2-1) on Saturday at 1 p.m. at Nickerson Field. The Terriers enter the contest on a 12-game winning streak. UAlbany fell to Boston U., 2-0, earlier this season in Albany.

University of Albany FCS Football Tailback Andrew Smith Chosen Northeast Conference Football Offensive Player of the Week - UAlbany Sports 2011

Somerset, N.J. - University at Albany's Andrew Smith has been named Northeast Conference Offensive Player of the Week in football, as announced on Monday, Oct. 31 by the conference office. Smith, a junior tailback, received the NEC's weekly award for the second time this season.

Smith rushed 23 times for 149 yards, the second-best performance of his career, and one touchdown in last Saturday's 24-0 victory over Wagner. In blizzard conditions due to a rare October snowstorm, Smith was featured on an eight-play, 45-yard drive in the second quarter that gave his team a 7-0 lead. He scored on a one-yard run, his seventh consecutive carry, to cap the march. The native of Guilderland, N.Y., also helped break open a tight game in the third quarter. He caught a 15-yard first-down pass and broke free on a 48-yard run in a drive that led to 14-0 advantage.

Smith accounted for 170 all-purpose yards, his second-highest total as a collegian, and has reached the century mark in that category in six consecutive games. He recorded his fifth career 100-yard rushing effort. Smith leads the Great Danes in rushing with 720 yards and seven touchdowns, plus is sixth in the NEC in all-purpose yards (115.1 ypg).

UAlbany (6-2, NEC 5-0) is in first place in the conference standings. The Great Danes, who have won six in a row, host Bryant at University Field on Saturday, Nov. 5 at 1:00 p.m.

Paw Prints: UAlbany owns a six-game winning streak, tying the third longest in the program's Division I FCS history ... the Great Danes recorded their 11th shutout as an FCS program by holding Wagner to 204 yards, including 25 passing ... UAlbany has reached the five-win mark in Northeast Conference play in 10 of 13 seasons as a league member ... the Great Danes and Bryant will meet for the third time this weekend ... the Bulldogs posted a 24-7 victory one year ago ... Bryant's Jordan Brown, a Walter Payton Award candidate as the nation's top FCS player, is averaging 163.5 rushing yards, 241.1 all-purpose yards and 13.8 points ... the Great Danes are eighth in scoring (35.9 ppg) and tied for ninth in red-zone efficiency (91%) among the NCAA leaders ... DT Zach Gallo made a career-high 11 tackles and recovered a fumble last week ... DE Eddie Delaney added eight tackles and equaled a career-best 1.5 sacks ... Delaney's sacks wiped out two second-half scoring threats by the Wagner offense ... the Great Danes are receiving votes in both The Sports Network and FCS Coaches national polls.

University of Albany FCS Football Punter Paul Layton Named Northeast Conference Special Teams Player of the Week - UAlbany Sports 2011

Somerset, N.J. - University at Albany's Paul Layton has been selected Northeast Conference Special Teams Player of the Week in football, as announced on Monday, Oct. 31 by the conference office. Layton, a sophomore from Burnt Hills, N.Y., earned the conference award for the second time this season.

Despite blizzard conditions, a snow-covered field, and 20 mile-per-hour winds, Layton averaged 38.3 yards in six punting attempts during a 24-0 victory over Wagner. He helped provide his team with favorable field position and booted a 58-yarder from his own end zone in the second quarter. Three of his punts went to the Seahawks' 20-yard line and beyond. He also assisted placekicker Herb Glass as the holder on all placements. In the wintry conditions, Glass made all three point-after attempts and a 23-yard field goal.

Layton is fourth among the Division I FCS national leaders with a 43.8 punting average. He has placed 17 punts inside the opposition's 20-yard line and has 13 kicks of 50 yards or longer this season.

Saturday, October 29, 2011

University of Albany Men's Cross Country Captures First America East Conference Title - UAlbany Sports 2011

Albany, N.Y. - Chris Burke paced the University at Albany men's cross country team to their first America East Conference Championship title on Saturday, October 29th, as the program joined the league in 2001. Burke completed the 8,000-meter course in 24:25.67, as the Great Danes placed three runners in the top-ten.

"We wheeled out a brand new course this year, we're really proud of that and to win our first conference title at home is awesome. It really is ", said coach McVey on UAlbany's first cross country title since entering the America East Conference. "Chris is a senior for us and Paul has another year of eligibility for us and they both ran smart races. They had an opportunity to run on the course at our invitation two weeks ago so that played a factor in how well they did. But they both ran smart races and I 'm just really, really proud of them."

UAlbany and Boston University tied with 60 points each, but the Great Danes were awarded the tie-breaker with Burke's finishing time. The Terriers and Great Danes edged the third-place finisher, University of Maine by nine points. Riley Masters of Maine took his second straight America East championship title in 24:18.66 to set a new course record and finish ahead of 84 competitors.

Coming in after Burke, UAlbany's 2011 45th Annual Invitational winner, Paul Lagno finished fifth overall in 24:47.19. Completing the Great Dane top-five finishers were Ethan Clary (24:50.24, 8th), Alex Leuchanka (25:08.34, 13th), and Chris Buchanan (25:33.09, 32nd).

Paw Prints: Coach Craig McVey and his staff were voted by fellow America East Conference coaches as Coaching Staff of the Year ... The Great Danes will compete in the NCAA Northeast Regional (Amherst, N.Y.) on November 12th and the IC4A Championship (Van Cordlandt Park, Bronx, N.Y.) on November 19th to conclude the 2011 season.

University of Albany Field Hockey Holds Off New Hampshire, 3-2, in America East Play; McConville Nets Game Winner - UAlbany Sports 2011

Albany, N.Y. - Corrine McConville capitalized on penalty stroke opportunity in the 62nd minute to give the No. 18 University at Albany a 3-2 victory over No. 10 New Hampshire in America East Conference action Saturday afternoon on Senior Day.

The Great Danes tallied the lone goal in the first half with a tip-in from Katharina Helling coming off a long shot by Daphne Voormolen with under ten minutes remaining. The goal was Helling's fifth on the season and Voormolen's seventh helper.
New Hampshire (14-4, 4-1AE) rebounded in the 45th minute as Melyssa Woods received a pass near the left post from Hayley Rausch to sneak past UAlbany goalkeeper Kristi Troch. Voormolen and Chantae Miller teamed up to give the Great Danes a 2-1 lead in the 48th minute when Miller's intended shot was received by Voormolen and tipped into the right corner. Play would remain neutral for the next six minutes and the Wildcats took a timeout to regroup. Joyce Kellie of New Hampshire notched the equalizer in the 55th minute with possession of the ball off a defenders stick.

UAlbany (13-6, 3-2 AE) was awarded a penalty stroke in the 62nd minute after a jostle in the crease. McConville would take the shot for the Great Danes and capitalize, giving UAlbany a 3-2 lead. The goal was McConville's 12th on the season as she has gone 4-for-5 on penalty strokes this season. UAlbany held the Wildcats to no shots for the remainder of the game to give New Hampshire their first conference loss this season.

"We played a complete game today," said UAlbany Head Coach Phil Sykes. "This was a very good team win for us against a talented UNH team. We will now focus on next weekend's America East tournament."

For the Wildcats, goalkeeper Katherine Nagengast made four saves in the effort. Troch made three saves, good for her 11th win this season which ties her for third in single-season wins in program history.

The Great Danes had a slight edge on shots, 9-7, and were the only team awarded penalty corners; UAlbany had four in the match.

Up next for UAlbany is the America East championship weekend which is hosted by New Hampshire on November 4th and 6th. The Great Danes will either be seeded third or fourth; final rankings will be announced by the conference after the completion of all games this weekend.

Paw Prints: Before today's game, three graduating Great Danes were honored; Erin Crosson, Christina Patrick, and graduate student Katharina Helling ... Over four seasons, Crosson and Patrick helped UAlbany to a 54-27 record and two America East Conference Championship titles ... The Great Danes have qualified for the America East tournament seven consecutive years.

University of Albany FCS Football Prevails 24-0 in Battle With Wagner and Snow; Andrew Smith Rushes for 149 Yards - UAlbany Sports 2011

Staten Island, N.Y. - Andrew Smith rushed for 149 yards and one touchdown and Dillon Romain ran for a pair of scores in the second half, as UAlbany posted a 24-0 victory over Wagner in Northeast Conference play on Saturday, Oct. 29 at Wagner College Stadium. A driving rain turned into three inches of snow prior to kickoff and covered the field.

UAlbany (6-2, NEC 5-0) broke open a tight game in the third quarter. Wagner (1-7, NEC 1-4) marched from near midfield to inside the Great Danes' 20-yard line. But defensive Eddie Delaney sacked quarterback Nick Doscher on third down and Kenny Howard's fourth-down reception was well short of the yard marker.

The Great Danes then marched 86 yards in nine plays for a 14-0 lead. Smith, a junior tailback, hauled in a 15-yard pass for a first down, before exploding over the right side on a 48-yard scamper. Romain ran five straight times to finish off sequence, including a two-yard blast over right guard.

The Seahawks, who have lost seven in a row since a season-opening win, mishandled a UAlbany punt midway through the fourth quarter and cornerback Duane Harper made the recovery. Herb Glass' 23-yard field goal gave his team a 17-0 cushion. UAlbany's defense set up another score when inside linebacker Jon Morgan forced a fumble following a completed pass and safety Brandon Baylor made a 38-yard return. Romain blasted over right tackle on a three-yard touchdown run with 6:50 remaining.

"We wanted the shutout," said Morgan, who made eight tackles. "We have a mature defense with a lot of starters back. It was a challenge to play in those conditions and then get some turnovers."

The blizzard forced both offenses to be conservative in the opening half. Doscher, who did not even attempt a pass before the break, had his team on the move during its second possession after scrambling for a first down to keep the drive alive. But running back Dominique Williams would later fumble and UAlbany defensive tackle Zach Gallo made the recovery. Williams, one of the nation's top rushers, finished with 145 yards on 34 attempts.

After a short punt on the first play of the second period, the Great Danes featured Smith on an eight-play, 45-yard scoring march. Smith ripped off a 16-yard run to get his team inside the five-yard line. He later dove over right guard for a one-yard touchdown, his seventh consecutive carry, for a 7-0 lead with 11:46 left before the intermission.

"We knew on Thursday that the weather was going to be an issue," offered Smith, who also caught three passes for 21 yards. "It came down to the elements and we knew we had to pound the ball. The defense collapsed in the gap on that long run and I was able to take it to the outside."

Wagner's Doscher, second on the school's career total offense chart, completed just 4 of 8 passes for 25 yards and was limited to 20 on the ground. UAlbany's Dan Di Lella connected on 6-of-11 through the air for 53 yards.

"The conditions were a great equalizer," explained UAlbany coach Bob Ford, whose team has won six straight games. "I think we are better and healthier than Wagner at this point in the season, but the game was still pretty close into the second half. We have a confident group and I am happy about our defensive performance."

Paw Prints: UAlbany recorded its first shutout since last October 9th, a 48-0 win over Saint Francis, Pa. ... the Great Danes and Wagner met for the 15th time ... UAlbany has reached the five-win mark in conference play for the ninth time in 13 seasons as a league member ... the Great Danes have won eight in a row against NEC opposition ... defensive tackle Zach Gallo made a career-high 11 tackles and defensive end Eddie Delaney matched a career-best with 1.5 sacks ... Andrew Smith accounted for 100-plus all-purpose yards for the sixth consecutive game ... Smith toppled the 100-rushing mark for the fifth time in his career.

#18 University of Albany Field Hockey Holds Off #10 New Hampshire, 3-2 in America East Action; McConville Nets Game Winner - UAlbany Sports 2011

Friday, October 28, 2011

Gonzalez Becomes University of Albany Volleyball Career Digs Leader; UAlbany Volleyball Sweeps UMBC - UAlbany Sports 2011

Albany, N.Y. - Laurie Gonzalez became UAlbany's career digs leader, recording a match-high 23 to lead the Great Danes to a 3-0 win over UMBC in America East Conference volleyball action on Friday evening at University Gymnasium. UAlbany posted set scores of 25-21, 25-21 and 25-15 to sweep the Retrievers. Gonzalez, who passed Ashley DeNeal '08 to take over the top spot in UAlbany annals, now has 1,917 career digs.

UMBC jumped out to an early 9-3 lead on three straight kills, including two by Ali Loynachan, prompting UAlbany to take a timeout. Dunja Prgomet recorded a kill to end the UMBC rally. The Great Danes rallied from the deficit, tying the match at 11-11, and then taking the lead on three consecutive kills by Casey Wright. Emily Vandegrift recorded a kill to pull the Retrievers back within one, 17-16, but UAlbany continued to rally, as Gonzalez served for three straight points, including a service ace, putting the Great Danes ahead, 22-17. UAlbany got to set point on one of Wright's six kills in the first, but Loynachan and Dalton Tolliver nailed back-to-back kills to keep UMBC in play. However, a Retriever service error ended the set in UAlbany's favor.

The teams played a close start to the second set, tying the match six times in the early going before UAlbany took control. Progomet took over the service game after a Wright kill, and served for four straight points, including one of UAlbany's five service aces, to put the Great Danes ahead, 11-7. Emily Vandegrift pulled the Retreivers back within 14-13 on a kill, but UAlbany continued to rally. After a UMBC service error, Abbey Wexel served for four consecutive points to put UAlbany up, 21-16. After a block by Tolliver and Alexandria Spaay, Samantha Brostrom gave UAlbany set point with one of her nine kills in the match. Traci Vandegrift took an assist from Brooke Stanley to end the set and give the Great Danes a 2-0 match lead.

The Great Danes, who defeated UMBC, 3-0, earlier this season, were determined not to let the match go past three sets, and came out firing after the break. The Great Danes built up an 11-7 lead on a kill by Wright, and a kill by Traci Vandegrift prompted UMBC to take a timeout, down 13-8. The teams exchanged points on serves before Traci Vandegrift smacked back-to-back kills to put UAlbany ahead, 22-14. A Retriever attack error gave UAlbany set point, and Brostrom served up an ace to end the match and give the Great Danes the three-set sweep.

Wright recorded a match-high 16 kills on .500 hitting for UAlbany, while Traci Vandegrift added another nine, hitting .353 for the match. Stanley finished with 34 assists and eight digs, while Wexel added 12 digs for the Great Danes. Emily Vandegrift led the Retrievers with eight kills, while Spaay recorded a double-double of 25 assists and 12 digs. Libero Ali Goc added 13 digs for UMBC (12-11, AE 2-6).

UAlbany (14-8, AE 7-1) will return to action on Sunday, hosting Stony Brook in America East Conference action at 1 p.m.

Thursday, October 27, 2011

Bergeron Leads University of Albany Women's Soccer to 2-1 Double-Overtime Win Over Vermont in America East Quarterfinals - UAlbany Sports 2011

Albany, N.Y. - Shayla Bergeron scored the gamewinner in the second overtime period to lead UAlbany to a 2-1 victory over sixth-seeded Vermont in an America East Women's soccer quarterfinal match on Thursday afternoon at Varsity Field. The third-seeded Great Danes move on to the tournament semifinals against #2 Hartford on Sunday.

After a scoreless first overtime, Bergeron tallied the decisive goal in the 108th minute. The junior forward picked the ball up at midfield and took it all the way through the Vermont defense. She passed four Catamount defenders, coming head on with Vermont goalkeeper Sarah Leiby, chipping the ball into the left side of the net for the score.

UAlbany got on the board first in regulation, as Maggie DeVerna passed the ball ahead to Katie Grant, who shot from just outside the goalie box. In the 10th minute, Grant's shot sailed just above Leiby's head and into the top right corner. Vermont netted the equalizer in the 72nd minute to send the ball to overtime. Off of a Vermont free kick into the box, Midori Eckenstein headed the ball towards the net, where Ellie Mills got a head on the ball in the air and redirected it past UAlbany's Jackie Ubert.

The teams played a fairly even game, with Vermont holding a slight 19-16 edge in shots and 8-5 advantage in corner kicks. Ubert played all 107:34 for the Great Danes between the pipes, making 10 saves. Leiby also recorded a complete game for Vermont, stopping 10 shots. The Catamounts end the season with a 5-10 overall record.

UAlbany (8-9) will look to win its first America East semifinal game against Hartford on Sunday at 2 p.m. The two teams played to a 1-1 tie in the regular season in Albany.

Wednesday, October 26, 2011

University of Albany Women's Soccer Earns Four America East Post-Season Accolades - UAlbany Sports 2011

Cambridge, Mass. - University at Albany's Chrissy Klepper and Rebecca Lee highlight a group of four Great Dane student-athletes honored on the America East Conference Women's Soccer All-Conference teams, as announced by the league office on Wednesday afternoon. Klepper and Lee were both named to the all-conference second team, along with Chelsea DeVerna. Freshman Stephanie Nelle earned a spot on the all-rookie squad.

Lee leads the team on the season with four goals and two assists for 10 points. She has recorded one game-winning goal, and has converted 2-of-3 penalty kicks. In a 5-3 victory over New Hampshire in September, Lee scored two goals, and she netted the game winner in a 1-0 win at UMBC earlier in October. Klepper is second in scoring, recording three goals and three assists this season for nine total points. She has netted two game winners, and is second on the squad with 29 shots. The senior midfielder scored the winning goal in the season opener against Sacred Heart and netted the go-ahead tally in the regular-season finale win over Stony Brook.

DeVerna makes her third consecutive appearance on the all-conference second team. The junior forward has scored three goals and tallied one assist, while leading the Great Danes with 34 shots. DeVerna's goal against Maine on Oct. 16 helped lead UAlbany to a 3-1 victory to close out a stretch of four straight wins. Nelle has anchored a Great Dane defense that has recorded three shutouts and a 2.01 goals against average this season.

UAlbany (7-9-1, AE 5-2-1) will host Vermont in an America East Championship quarterfinal game on Thursday at 2 p.m. The Great Danes enter the tournament on a six-game undefeated streak, dating back to Oct. 2. UAlbany won four in a row before tying Hartford, and ended the regular season with a 2-1 victory on the road at Stony Brook.

-agate-

2011 America East Women's Soccer All-Conference Teams

First Team: Jessica Luscinski, F, Boston U.; Mary Beth Hamilton, F, Hartford; Amelia Pereira, F, Hartford; Brittany Heist, MF, Boston U.; Kylie Strom, MF, Boston U.; Caitlin Alves, MF, Hartford; Monique Lamotte, MF, New Hampshire; Angelina Cords, D, Boston U.; Katherine Donnelly, D, Boston U.; Michele DeSanti, D, Hartford; Erin Quinlan, GK, Hartford.

Second Team: Chelsea DeVerna, F, UAlbany; Tiya Gallegos, F, Boston U.; Rachel McKee, F, UMBC; Rebecca Lee, MF, UAlbany; Chrissy Klepper, MF, UAlbany; Stephanie Gilkenson, MF, New Hampshire; Sa'sha Kershaw, MF, Stony Brook; Christiana Lang, D, Hartford; Kelly Mooney, D, New Hampshire; Alexa DeMaio, D, Vermont; Alice Binns, GK, Boston U.

All-Rookie Team: Stephanie Nelle, UAlbany; Connie Gormley, Binghamton; Ariana Aston, Boston U.; Taylor Krebs, Boston U.; Jamie Turchi, Boston U.; Chanel Johnson, Hartford; Jordan Pellerin, Maine; Camile Varin-Tremblay, Maine; Meghan Ledwith, New Hampshire; Regan Bosnyak, Stony Brook; Alexandra Dezenzo, Vermont; Kerry Glynn, Vermont.

Striker of the Year: Jessica Luscinski, Boston U.

Midfielder of the Year: Brittany Heist, Boston U.

Defender of the Year: Angelina Cords, Boston U.

Goalkeeper of the Year: Erin Quinlan, Hartford

Rookie of the Year: Taylor Krebs, Boston U.

Coaching Staff of the Year: John Natale, Hartford

Tuesday, October 25, 2011

2011 UAlbany FCS Football Gameday @ Wagner: 10/29/11

University of Albany: Championship Subdivision Football (FCS)

UAlbany FCS Football Homepage

UAlbany FCS Football Roster

UAlbany FCS Football Stats

UAlbany FCS Football Media Guide

UAlbany FCS Football Game Notes

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NEXT GAME

Date: Saturday, October 29, 2011
Time: 12pm
Opponent: Wagner
Location: Staten Island, NY
Facility: Wagner College Stadium
Directions
Tickets

Distance:
From Albany - 165m
From Boston – 229m
From NYC - 13m

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2011 UAlbany FCS Football Schedule:

Sat, Sep 3 at Colgate L 34-37 --
Sat, Sep 17 Maine L 15-31 --
Sat, Sep 24 at Columbia W 44-21 --
Sat, Oct 1 at St. Francis (PA) W 41-20 --
Sat, Oct 8 Duquesne W 38-10 --
Sat, Oct 15 Robert Morris W 28-17 --
Sat, Oct 22 Central Connecticut State W 63-35 --
Sat, Oct 29 at Wagner 12:00 pm --
Sat, Nov 5 Bryant 1:00 pm --
Sat, Nov 12 at Monmouth 12:00 pm --
Sat, Nov 19 Sacred Heart 1:00 pm --

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Gameday Live Media Coverage:

FoxSports Radio - Great Dane Football
Webcast
Live Stats

Pregame Media Coverage:

Big Purple Fans - UAlbany Fan Board

Coach's Corner:

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Wagner University: Championship Subdivision Football (FCS)

Football Homepage

Football Roster

Football Game Notes

Football Media Guide

Football Stats

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2011 Schedule:

Sat, Sep 3 St. Francis (PA) W 38-28 --
Sat, Sep 10 at Richmond L 6-21 --
Sat, Sep 17 Central Connecticut State L 24-28 --
Sat, Sep 24 at Bryant L 28-30 --
Sat, Oct 1 at Cornell L 7-31 --
Sat, Oct 8 Georgetown L 10-24 --
Sat, Oct 22 at Duquesne L 21-37 --
Sat, Oct 29 Albany 12:00 pm --
Sat, Nov 5 Sacred Heart 1:00 pm --
Sat, Nov 12 at Robert Morris 12:00 pm --
Sat, Nov 19 at Monmouth 12:00 pm --

Stadium:

University of Albany Football's Dan Di Lella Named NEC Offensive Player of the Week for Second Straight Time - UAlbany Sports 2011

Somerset, N.J. - University at Albany's Dan Di Lella has been chosen Northeast Conference Offensive Player of the Week in football, as announced on Monday, Oct. 24 by the conference office. Di Lella, a 6-foot-5 quarterback, was recognized with the league award for the second consecutive week.

Di Lella set a school record with five touchdown passes, including four in the first half, and scored on a 20-yard run in the third quarter in last Saturday's 63-35 NEC victory against Central Connecticut State. He jump-started a run of 21 unanswered in the second half that broke the game open. He found tight end Paul Booker with a 7-yard scoring pass, his fifth of the game, and then ran for touchdown that gave his team a 49-21 lead.

A native of Neshanic Station, N.J., Di Lella is the first UAlbany player to account for six touchdowns in a game at the Division I FCS level. He completed 14-of-22 through the air for a career-high 283 yards, tying the sixth-best figure in school annals. Di Lella added 75 yards on the ground and established the program's FCS single-game record with 358 total yards. In seven starting assignments, he has thrown for 1,557 yards and 16 touchdowns. He is 21st nationally in total offense at 258.6 yards per game.

Paw Prints: UAlbany (5-2, NEC 4-0) is receiving votes in both national Division I FCS polls ... the Great Danes own a five-game winning streak for the first time in two years ... UAlbany surpassed the 500-mark in total yards with 573 against Central Connecticut State, plus scored its most points in a conference game ... QB Dan Di Lella, who set the program's FCS standard with 358 total yards last week, helped the offense score on nine of 11 possessions ... the Great Danes are fourth nationally in scoring (37.6 ppg) and ninth in total offense (448.9 ypg) ... TB Andrew Smith has accounted for 100 or more all-purpose yards in five consecutive games ... WR Ryan Kirchner is the 12th UAlbany player to reach 1,000 career receiving yards (1,006) ... FS Justin Hassan became the sixth active UAlbany defender to register 100 career tackles (101) ... UAlbany travels to Wagner on Saturday, Oct. 29 for a 12:07 p.m. kickoff ... the contest is part of the NEC television package and can be seen on ESPN 3 and Fox College Sports.

University of Albany All-America Track Hurdler Alie Beauvais Competes at XVI Pan American Games - UAlbany Sports 2011

Albany, N.Y. - Former University at Albany All-America hurdler Alie Beauvais will compete this week at the XVI Pan American Games in Guadalajara, Mexico. Beauvais, who will represent his native country of Haiti, is scheduled to run in the 400-meter intermediate hurdles preliminary round on Wednesday, Oct. 26. The Pan American Games are held the year prior to the Summer Olympics.

Beauvais, who attended Hempstead High School on Long Island, earned third-team All-America honors last year when he advanced to the NCAA 400-hurdles semifinals. Beauvais, who also qualified for nationals in 2009, punched his ticket to the NCAAs with a third-place effort at the East Preliminary Round.

Beauvais suffered a leg injury in early May at the 2011 America East Conference meet, but returned one month later to compete at NCAA regionals. He ran a season-best time of 51.08 seconds when he took third at Penn Relays. In 2010, Beauvais set the school's indoor 500-meter record of 1:02.32.

During his career, he previously represented Haiti and advanced to the finals in the 400-hurdles at the 2010 Central American and Caribbean Games. In addition to UAlbany's success at the America East Conference level, Beauvais was a key figure in the program's three IC4A championships.

University of Albany's Brooke Stanley Earns Fifth America East Volleyball Setter of the Week Award - UAlbany Sports 2011

Cambridge, Mass. - Senior setter Brooke Stanley was named the America East Conference Volleyball Setter of the Week, as announced by the league office on Monday afternoon. It is Stanley's fifth weekly award this season.

Stanley led the Great Danes to two sweeps last week, as the team defeated Colgate, 3-0, in non-league action on Wednesday before posting a 3-0 win over Binghamton in America East play on Sunday. The native of Hendersonville, N.C. averaged 12.33 assists, the highest in the conference for the week, and led the team to a .356 hitting percentage. She also recorded 1.50 digs and 1.17 kills, along with two service aces on the week.

Against Colgate, Stanley finished with 38 assists, four kills, four digs and an ace while the Great Danes hit .360 as a team. Versus the Bearcats at home, she tallied 36 assists, three kills, five digs, two blocks and an ace. One of Stanley's two blocks against Binghamton was a solo block in the second set that gave the Great Danes a commanding 17-12 lead. She leads the conference with 11.03 assists per set this season, while UAlbany leads the league with a team hitting percentage of .232.

Sunday, October 23, 2011

University of Albany W Soccer Edges Stony Brook; Hosts Vermont in Thursday's America East Quarterfinal Match - UAlbany Sports 2011

Stony Brook, N.Y. - Senior Chrissy Klepper scored the game-winner with an unassisted goal off a free kick to lead UAlbany to a 2-1 win over Stony Brook in America East Conference women's soccer action on Sunday afternoon at LaValle Stadium. The Great Danes, who secured the No. 3 seed in the upcoming America East Championship, will host sixth-seeded Vermont on Thursday at 2 p.m. in the quarterfinals of the league tournament.

After a scoreless first half, UAlbany ended the drought with a goal in the 61st minute. Senior Katie Grant took a long cross from Harrison from the right wing. Grant and Stony Brook goalkeeper Chelsea Morales both went for the ball, but Grant got there first, heading it into the net. Ten minutes later, Klepper netted what would prove to be the game-winner, taking an assist off Amy Harrison's free kick from 45 yards out on the right wing. Morales misplayed the ball in the air, and Klepper knocked it across the goal line for the score.

The Seawolves attempted a late comeback, as Sa'sha Kershaw scored a goal in the 74th minute to cut the UAlbany lead to one. Christi Casamassina sent a crossing pass from the right wing, were Kershaw collected the ball and slipped it past UAlbany netminder Jackie Ubert with two taps.

UAlbany held a 19-13 shot advantage, including a 13-8 tally in the second half, and also took three corner kicks to Stony Brook's one. Ubert played a complete game between the pipes for the Great Danes, recording five saves, while Morales stopped seven UAlbany shots for Stony Brook (4-12-1, AE 2-5-1).

UAlbany wraps up the regular season with a 7-9-1 overall record, posting a 5-2-1 ledger in America East play. The Great Danes have not lost a game since October 2, notching four straight victories before settling for a tie against league-leader Hartford on Thursday. UAlbany defeated Vermont (5-9-4, AE 3-4-1), 2-1, in the regular-season meeting between the two teams. The winner will face No. 2 seed Hartford on Sunday at 2 p.m.

University of Albany Volleyball Sweeps Binghamton in Three Sets; Tied for First in America East Standings UAlbany Sports 2011

Albany, N.Y. - Casey Wright recorded a match-high 16 kills on .481 hitting to lead UAlbany to a 3-0 sweep of Binghamton in America East Conference volleyball action on Sunday afternoon at University Gymnasium. The Great Danes swept the Bearcats with set scores of 25-16, 25-17 and 25-15.

UAlbany came out firing, building up a quick 9-3 advantage in the first set on a kill by Wright, prompting Binghamton to take an early timeout. The Bearcats regrouped and scored the next four points to pull within 9-7, but Wright smacked another one of her five kills in the set to end the rally and put the Great Danes back in control. UAlbany pulled ahead, 14-10, on a kill by Samantha Brostrom, but a kill by Binghamton's Kristin Hovie, followed by two Great Dane errors allowed the Bearcats to get within a point. A timeout by UAlbany refocused the Great Danes, who quickly jumped back ahead, getting to set point on back-to-back kills by Gabby Whitworth. A Binghamton attack error ended the set and gave UAlbany a 1-0 match lead.

The teams played a closer start to the second set, tying the score six times before UAlbany pulled ahead, 18-13, behind the service game of Abbey Wexel. A kill by Annelot Nieuwenhuis ended the rally, but Wright smashed a kill up the middle and put The Great Danes back in control. Dunja Prgomet, who recorded two service aces on the day, notched one on her first serve, and then served for three additional points to put the Great Danes up by ten, 23-13. Grace Vickers recorded a kill and then took over serve for Binghamton and attempted to start a rally for the Bearcats, pulling within 23-17. Wright took an assist from Stanley to get UAlbany to set point, and then recorded a kill off her own serve to end the set.

UAlbany wasted no time after the break, and built up a 12-6 lead on back-to-back kills by Brostrom. Binghamton pulled to within four, 14-10, on a service ace by Julie Chambers, but the Great Danes would not fold, building up a 19-11 advantage on the team's fifth ace of the day, served up by Brostrom. Wright was involved the the final four points of the match, recording three kills, including the match-winner, and combining with Stanley on a block for set point.

Brostrom added nine kills in the match, going without an error in 24 attempts for a .375 hitting percentage, while also coming up with 11 digs. Stanley quarterbacked the Great Danes to a .352 team hitting percentage, finishing with 36 assists, five digs, three kills and two blocks. Laurie Gonzalez recorded 12 digs, and now needs just ten digs to set the UAlbany career record.

Binghamton (10-15, AE 2-5) was led by Hovie and Nieuwenhuis, who each totaled nine kills. Libero Xiomara Ortiz finished with 11 digs, while Emily Litwin added 10 digs defensively. Setter Amanda Dettmann finished with 29 assists and eight digs.

UAlbany (13-8, AE 7-1) will return to action on Friday, hosting UMBC in America East action at 7 p.m. The Great Danes posted a 3-2 come-from-behind victory over the Retrievers earlier this season in Baltimore.

Saturday, October 22, 2011

University of Albany Football's Di Lella Sets School Record for TD Passes in 63-35 NEC Win at Central Conn. State - UAlbany Sports 2011

New Britain, Conn. - Senior quarterback Dan Di Lella threw a school-record five touchdown passes and ran for another score in leading UAlbany to a 63-35 Northeast Conference victory over Central Connecticut State on Saturday, Oct. 22 at Arute Field. The Great Danes, who have won five in a row, remained in sole possession of first place in the conference standings.

UAlbany (5-2, NEC 4-0) led 35-21 at the intermission, but then exploded for 21 unanswered in the second half. The Great Danes drove 80 yards in 10 plays on their first offensive series. Andrew Smith, a junior tailback, broke free on the right sideline with a 57-yard screen pass to wipe a second-and-21 situation. Di Lella wrapped up the possession with a seven-yard touchdown pass to tight end Paul Booker, his fifth of the game to break the program's all-time standard.

Di Lella, who threw for a career-high 283 yards on 14-of-22 through the air, and added 75 yards on the ground, called his own number the next time the Great Danes touched the ball. His completed a 29-yard pass to Cole King and followed with a 20-yard scamper to paydirt. Defensive tackle Andrew Smith ended the scoring spree with a 38-yard interception return for a touchdown and a 56-21 advantage.

"I just followed (offensive guard) Kyle O'Keefe on the screen," explained Smith, who had 125 all-purpose yards. "We have the talent and now it is all coming together. We have the same guys from last year; there is a chemistry. Dan (Di Lella) knows the offense and he knows the receivers."

UAlbany broke a 7-7 tie in the opening period by scoring on consecutive possessions. Di Lella hooked up with reserve tight end Brian Parker on a 57-yard touchdown reception, his first career catch, in beating a cornerback blitz. After the Blue Devils ran out of downs at the Albany 39, the Great Danes mixed the run and pass on a six-play drive. Di Lella fired a 34-yard post-pattern strike to Nick Hutcherson for a two-touchdown lead.

In an offensive shootout from the start, Central Connecticut State (2-6, NEC 1-4) answered with a 12-play, 71-yard march. Gunnar Jespersen's 36-yard completion to Deven Baker on third-and-12 kept the series alive. Jespersen finished off the sequence with a one-yard run over right guard. UAlbany retaliated with a 14-play drive for a 28-14 advantage. Di Lella's seven-yard shovel pass put Smith across the goal line.

The Blue Devils, who have dropped five straight, came up with the game's first turnover when linebacker Lawton Arnold hit Di Lella as he threw and strong safety Antwione Reese came up with the interception near midfield. The miscue led to Jespersen's 18-yard scoring pass to a high-leaping Baker. UAlbany regrouped once again with a drive that ate up most of the first-half clock. Dillon Romain's nine-yard run on fourth down was a key play. Ryan Kirchner would later haul in Di Lella's pass with two hands in the back of the end zone for an 11-yard score and a 14-point halftime margin.

"Dan Di Lella threw the ball well and ran the ball well," said UAlbany coach Bob Ford, whose team set a record for most points against an NEC opponent. "The defense struggled early on, but we figured it out at halftime and were able to get a number of three-and-outs."

CCSU's Jespersen completed 11 of 18 pass attempts for 205 yards. He threw a 47-yard scoring pass in the opening period and 30-yard TD in the final stanza, both to wide receiver Nick Bacarella. Brian Fowler and reserve quarterback Andrew Clements, a converted linebacker, added 85 and 74 rushing yards, respectively.

"It was a team effort," offered Di Lella, who broke a single-game record that was shared by Joe Savino and Brad Aldrich. "Your teammates help you out and that means a lot to me. I trust everyone to make a make a play. We just wanted to keep our foot on the gas."

Paw Prints: UAlbany has a five-game win streak for the first time in two years ... the Great Danes and Central Connecticut State met for the 16th time ... the last three games in the series were each decided by three points or less ... the Great Danes set a program record for most points against an NEC opponent, as the previous mark was 58 against Saint Francis, Pa. on Oct. 20, 2007 ... QB Dan Di Lella established career-highs in passing yards (283) and total offense (368) ... Di Lella eclipsed Michael Oliva's record of most total offensive yards against an NEC team, as Oliva had 323 against Stony Brook on Oct. 2, 1999 ... Ryan Kirchner became the 12th UAlbany receiver to surpass 1,000 career receiving yards (1,006) ... the Great Danes have won seven straight against conference opposition ... UAlbany has registered four or more league wins in all 13 seasons as an NEC member.

Wednesday, October 19, 2011

University of Albany Volleyball Sweeps Non-Conference Opponent Colgate - UAlbany Sports 2011

Hamilton, N.Y. - Dunja Prgomet recorded a match-high 12 kills on .480 hitting to go along with seven digs, leading UAlbany to a 3-0 sweep of Colgate in non-conference volleyball action on Wednesday evening at Cotterell Court. The Great Danes swept the Raiders with set scores of 25-18, 25-18 and 25-13.

Colgate jumped out to a quick 4-0 lead in the first set before service error ended the run. Michelle McCarthy put the Raiders up 5-1 with a kill, but UAlbany came roaring back, eventually tying the set at 10-10 on a kill by Traci Vandegrift and taking its first lead with a Prgomet kill. Another kill by McCarthy tied the set for a final time at 11-11, but the Great Danes rattled off six straight points to take a 17-11 advantage. UAlbany continued to roll, getting back-to-back kills from Gabby Whitworth, followed by a service ace by Brooke Stanley, getting ahead, 23-16. Samantha Brostrom gave UAlbany set point with a kill before Prgomet took an assist from Stanley to end the set.

UAlbany's momentum carried into the next set. Despite a back-and-forth start, the Great Danes took an 8-7 advantage on a kill by Whitworth, and scored the next three points to pull ahead, 11-7, and prompt Colgate to take a timeout. After a UAlbany service error gave the Raiders a chance to rally back, Whitworth smacked another kill, giving Brostrom the ball behind the service line for the Great Danes. Brostrom served for six straight points, putting UAlbany up by 10, 18-8 before Colgate could get another point on a kill by Maureen Colligan. Brostrom later gave the Great Danes set point with a kill before Stanley ended the set with a kill of her own off an assist from Natalee Gruse.

The Great Danes did not slow in the third set, building up a quick 9-2 advantage behind five serves by Laurie Gonzalez, including two aces and two blocks by Vandegrift and Casey Wright. The teams exchanged points before UAlbany embarked on another rally, scoring five straight points to build up a 19-8 advantage. UAlbany scored the final three points of the set, getting to match point on a Colgate attack error and ending the match on a kill by Vanessa Sheffield.

Wright finished with nine kills, while Whitworth and Vandegrift added seven and six, respectively. Gonzalez led the team defensively with 24 digs, while Brostrom added 11 digs and two aces. Stanley totaled 38 assists, along with four digs, four kills and one ace.

Colgate (9-12) was led by Lindsay Young with 10 kills, while McCarthy added nine. Lexi Finger paced the Raiders defensively with 13 digs. Caitlin Cremin and Blaire Safir also totaled double-digit dig totals with 11 and 10, respectively. Kaylee Fifer tallied 32 assists and helped the Raiders with eight digs and five kills.

UAlbany (11-8) will return to action on Sunday, hosting Binghamton in America East play at 5 p.m.

Tuesday, October 18, 2011

University of Albany Field Hockey Moves Up to 15th in NFHCA Poll - UAlbany Sports 2011

Albany, N.Y. - University at Albany field hockey climbed to No. 15 in the Kookaburra/National Field Hockey Coaches Association Division I Coaches Poll, the program's eighth consecutive week in the rankings. The weekly poll was announced Tuesday, October 18 by the organization.
After sweeping both America East Conference opponent Vermont and Delaware to record their third and fourth consecutive shutout, the Great Danes moved up one position switching spots with Boston U. (16th). Also on the move were other conference foes; Maine bumped up to 13th and New Hampshire dropped two spots to 10th.

UAlbany (12-5) has two regular-season games remaining, both featuring conference opponents. The Great Danes will travel to Boston U. Saturday, October 23rd at 3:00 p.m. and host New Hampshire on Saturday, October 29th at 1:00 p.m.

Paw Prints: After defeating Delaware 4-0 on this past Sunday, the Great Danes hosted their second annual "Stick it to Cancer" fundraiser and clinic. The team hosted 85 athletes from the Shenendehowa School District to work on field hockey skills and training. UAlbany raised $300 from donations for the National Foundation of Cancer Research and $425 for the Luke Romano Fund.

UAlbany's Paul Lagno Named America East Conference Cross Country Performer of the Week

Albany, N.Y. - University at Albany's Paul Lagno has been selected for the second time this season as the America East Conference Men's Cross Country Performer of the Week, as announced Tuesday, October 18th by the league office.

Lagno successfully defended his men's individual crown, leading UAlbany to a second consecutive team title in the R.K. Munsey Men's Championship Race at the 45th Annual UAlbany Invitational on October 15th during Homecoming Weekend. Finishing ahead of 184 participants, he clocked an 8K time of 24:42. This was Lagno's second first-place finish on the season, after completing 6,000 meters in 18:11.17 at the Monmouth Kick-Off to set a new course record. That performance also garnered the junior harrier his first conference weekly honor this season.

Following the UAlbany Invitational performance the men's team moves up two spots to eighth in the USTFCCCA Northeast Regional, the program's highest ranking to date. The Great Danes men's and women's cross country teams will now focus on the America East Championship, hosted by UAlbany on Saturday, October 29th.

Monday, October 17, 2011

UAlbany Quarterback Dan Di Lella Named Northeast Conference Offensive Player of the Week

Somerset, N.J. - University at Albany's Dan Di Lella has been named Northeast Conference Offensive Player of the Week in football, as announced on Monday, Oct. 17 by the league office. Di Lella, a 6-foot-5 quarterback, helped move the Great Danes into sole possession of first place in the conference standings following last Saturday's 28-17 victory over Robert Morris at University Field.

Di Lella, a senior from Neshanic Station, N.J., passed for a career-high 279 yards and three first-half touchdowns in his team's fourth win in a row. He completed 20 of 30 attempts to tie the eighth-best single-game passing total in school history. Di Lella led his team to touchdowns on consecutive possessions in the first quarter. He fired a 44-yard scoring strike to Cole King and a 9-yard TD pass to Nick Hutcherson. The UAlbany signal-caller hooked up with Ryan Kirchner on a 27-yard touchdown in the second quarter.

Di Lella, who became the eighth UAlbany quarterback to pass for more than 2,000 career yards in the contest, led an offense that piled up 473 yards. In six starting assignments, has thrown for 1,274 yards and 11 touchdowns, plus added 178 yards on the ground. UAlbany (4-2, NEC 3-0) owns a four-game win streak for the first time since 2009.

Paw Prints: The Great Danes have moved to first place in the Northeast Conference standings for the first time since Oct. 26, 2009 ... UAlbany travels to Central Connecticut State on Saturday, Oct. 22. at 12 noon ... the Blue Devils rallied for an overtime win last year and came from behind for a 31-29 decision in 2009 ... UAlbany won its Homecoming game for the sixth consecutive year ... QB Dan Di Lella was also recognized by College Sports Madness as the NEC's player of the week ... TB Andrew Smith has accounted for 100 or more all-purpose yards in fourth straight games ... UAlbany is No. 16 in total offense (428.2 ypg) and No. 19 in scoring (33.3 ppg) among the NCAA Division I FCS leaders ... the Great Danes are receiving votes in both national polls ... Paul Layton is fourth nationally with a 45.4 punting average ... Eddie Delaney made four tackles and had a career-high 1.5 sacks versus Robert Morris ... Delaney, who was the subject of a national Associated Press wire story last week, will be noted in the upcoming edition of Sports Illustrated.

Casey Wright Named America East Conference Volleyball Player of the Week

Cambridge, Mass. - Casey Wright was named the America East Conference Volleyball Player of the Week after leading UAlbany to a 1-1 week in league play, as announced by the conference office on Monday afternoon. It is Wright's first weekly honor of the season.

The senior middle blocker averaged 5.00 kills and 1.50 blocks per set, while posting a .509 hitting percentage in matches against Hartford and New Hampshire. Wright, a native of Ballston Spa, N.Y., recorded 14 kills without an error in 23 attempts for a .609 hitting percentage in a three-set sweep of Hartford on Friday. She also finished with six total blocks, including three solo, against the Hawks. Wright followed that up with a 16-kill performance at New Hampshire, hitting .438 for the match, adding three blocks and three digs.

2011 UAlbany FCS Football Gameday @ C Connecticut State: 10/22/11

University of Albany Football: Championship Subdivision Football (FCS)

UAlbany FCS Football Homepage

UAlbany FCS Football Roster

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NEXT GAME

Date: Saturday, October 22, 2011
Time: 12pm
Opponent: Central Connecticut State
Location: New Britain, CT
Facility: Arute Field
Directions
Tickets

Distance:
From Albany - 124m
From Boston – 113m
From NYC - 115m

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2011 UAlbany FCS Football Schedule:

Sat, Sep 3 at Colgate L 34-37 --
Sat, Sep 17 Maine L 15-31 --
Sat, Sep 24 at Columbia W 44-21 --
Sat, Oct 1 at St. Francis (PA) W 41-20 --
Sat, Oct 8 Duquesne W 38-10 --
Sat, Oct 15 Robert Morris W 28-17 --
Sat, Oct 22 at Central Connecticut State 12:00 pm --
Sat, Oct 29 at Wagner 1:00 pm --
Sat, Nov 5 Bryant 1:00 pm --
Sat, Nov 12 at Monmouth 12:00 pm --
Sat, Nov 19 Sacred Heart 1:00 pm --

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Gameday Live Media Coverage:

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Webcast
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Pregame Media Coverage:

Big Purple Fans - UAlbany Fan Board

Coach's Corner:

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Central Conn State: Championship Subdivision Football (FCS)

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2011 Schedule:

Sat, Sep 3 Southern Connecticut State W 35-21 --
Sat, Sep 10 at James Madison L 9-14 --
Sat, Sep 17 at Wagner W 28-24 --
Sat, Sep 24 Monmouth L 12-24 --
Sat, Oct 1 Sacred Heart L 24-37 --
Sat, Oct 8 at Massachusetts L 26-42 --
Sat, Oct 15 at Duquesne L 21-28 --
Sat, Oct 22 Albany 12:00 pm --
Sat, Oct 29 at St. Francis (PA) 12:00 pm --
Sat, Nov 5 Robert Morris 12:00 pm --
Sat, Nov 19 at Bryant 12:00 pm --

Stadium:

Sunday, October 16, 2011

University of Albany Field Hockey Ousts Delaware, 4-0, in Non-Conference Play For Fourth Straight Win - UAlbany Sports 2011

Albany, N.Y. - Three UAlbany players tallied in the first half en route to a 4-0 shutout win over Delaware in non-conference field hockey action Sunday afternoon. The Great Danes and Blue Hens faced off in the second annual "Stick it to Cancer" fundraiser and clinic event by UAlbany field hockey, which supports both the Luke Romano Fund and the National Foundation for Cancer Research.
In the eleventh minute of the game senior forward Christina Patrick received a quick rebound pass from teammate Daphne Voormolen to put away her 13th goal on the season and fifth game winning goal on the year. Over the next 15 minutes the Blue Hens would take a few shots, but none hit the target. Regaining possession, the Great Danes converted on a long shot from Taylor Luke as Nina Walters threw her stick in front of the shot, tipping it high for her third goal this season.

UAlbany (12-5, 2-1 AE) converted on an awarded penalty stroke late in the first half to hold a 3-0 lead going into halftime. Corrine McConville made the tally, moving to 3-for-4 in penalty strokes on the season. Katharina Helling added the final goal in the game in the 55th minute as she found a loose ball in front, putting it into the high right corner.

"Very good team effort today, as we had great ball movement and solid defense," said UAlbany Head Coach Phil Sykes. "Delaware is a strong team, we were fortunate to score four goals. We hope to keep this momentum into next weekend's conference game at Boston U."

UAlbany goalkeeper Redshirt freshman Sammie Rimback made her first start this season and completed the shutout for the Great Danes with four saves. UAlbany has now shutout their opponents for the last 245 minutes and 21 seconds of play.

Delaware (6-9) goalkeeper Noelle Diana made eight saves in the loss. The Blue Hens totaled for eight shots, with only four falling on target.

The Great Danes completed a four-game homestead with four shutout victories. The team will travel to Boston U. next Saturday, October 23rd for a 3:00 p.m. start as they look for another conference game victory.

University of Albany Women's Soccer Captures Fourth Straight Match to Record Longest Division I Win Streak - UAlbany Sports 2011

Albany, N.Y. - Katie Grant took assists from Chrissy Klepper and Kendra Harrell-Vigil to score the first goal of the game just 10:25 into play, leading UAlbany to a 3-1 win over Maine in America East Conference women's soccer action on Sunday afternoon at Varsity Field. The senior trio, who were honored along with the team's other three seniors prior to the start of the game, helped the Great Danes to their fourth straight win. It is the first time in Division I history that UAlbany has won four consecutive games.

Harrell-Vigil chipped a pass ahead to Klepper, who headed the ball to Grant in the 11th minute of play. Grant redirected the ball into the net to give the Great Danes the early lead. Maine tied the game at 1-1 in the 19th minute, and Jordan Pellerin crossed the ball in front of the goal, where it was misplayed by UAlbany goalkeeper Jackie Ubert. Maggie Malone collected the stray shot and knocked it into the net.

The Great Danes took the lead for good at 33:11, as Casey Marks connected on a penalty kick. Chelsea DeVerna took an assist from Katie Dunn two minutes later to give UAlbany an insurance goal. Dunn passed the ball from the top left side of the box, where DeVerna tapped the ball past Maine goalkeeper Meagan Price-Leibenzeder, setting the final score of 3-1.

The teams played a scoreless second half, with each team taking five shots. UAlbany held a 13-8 shot advantage for the game, while both teams took two corner kicks. Price-Leibenzeder made four saves in the game for Maine (4-8-1, AE 1-5-0), while Ubert stopped two Black Bear shots.

UAlbany, who also honored seniors Rebecca Lee, Katie Norwood and Nicole Berard, will return to action on Thursday, in the final home game of the season, hosting Hartford at 3 p.m.

Saturday, October 15, 2011

University of Albany FCS Football Gains First Place in Northeast Conference Standings with 28-17 Homecoming Victory - UAlbany Sports 2011

Albany, N.Y. - Quarterback Dan Di Lella passed for a career-high 279 yards and three touchdowns in leading UAlbany to a 28-17 Northeast Conference victory over Robert Morris on Saturday, Oct. 15 at University Field. The Great Danes, who have won four straight, moved into sole possession of first place in the conference standings.

UAlbany (4-2, NEC 3-0) scored on two consecutive possessions in the opening quarter and grabbed a 14-0 lead. After a short punt by Robert Morris' Tony LaMancusa, Di Lella went upstairs on the first play from scrimmage and wide receiver Cole King made a leaping 44-yard touchdown catch in the end zone. The Great Danes followed with an 11-play, 80-yard march. DiLella, who completed 20-of-30 through the air, twice hooked up with Nick Hutcherson during the series, including a 9-yard scoring pass with 3:46 left in the period.

The Great Danes, who were playing before a homecoming crowd, took advantage of a mistake by the visitors midway through the second quarter when fullback Jamar Cromwell fumbled on a third-and-two play and cornerback Duane Harper made the recovery at the Colonials' 36. After the UAlbany offense later backed up due to a holding penalty, Di Lella moved to his right and found wide receiver Ryan Kirchner in the end zone, who got one foot inside the end line on a 27-yard touchdown catch.

"It was a broken play," explained Di Lella, who also threw three touchdown passes two weeks ago against Saint Francis, Pa. "Ryan (Kirchner) gave me a wave hello. I didn't see it, but I heard it was a great catch. It was good that we able to jump on them, because they jumped on us last year."

Robert Morris (2-4, NEC 2-1) dominated the third quarter to get back into the contest. Safety Cameron Chadwick stopped tailback Andrew Smith on fake-punt run to jump-start his team's first touchdown. The Colonials moved eight plays to paydirt. Quarterback Jeff Sinclair converted a third-and-nine situation with a 16-yard pass to tight end Shadrae King. Sinclair, who threw for 158 yards and added 78 on the ground, connected with Donte Jeter on an 8-yard TD. The all-conference signal-caller led his squad on a 13-play drive during its next offensive set that resulted in Greg Langer's 36-yard field on the last play of the stanza.

Still leading 21-10, UAlbany regained momentum on its next series with a six-play scoring march, all on the ground. Dillon Roman, a sophomore tailback, rushed five straight times, including a 34-yard burst into RMU territory. Romain, who ran 13 times for a season-best 93 yards, bounced off a pile and across the goal line on a one-yard blast with 12:53 remaining. Sinclair wrapped up the scoring with a 17-yard touchdown run in the final minute of play.

"We dominated play early and got up by 21 points with an opportunity to get one or two more scores," said UAlbany coach Bob Ford, whose team has its longest winning streak since the 2009 season. "We have some correctable mistakes to address, especially the penalties. We have got to come back down to earth, because next week's opponent beat us last year."

UAlbany's Smith added 90 rushing yards on 17 carries, as his team racked up more than 440 total yards for the fourth consecutive game. Kirchner had six receptions for 66 yards, and King hauled in four passes for 97.

"We were able to keep pressure (on the quarterback) with four guys," said defensive end Eddie Delaney, who had four tackles, 1.5 sacks and a pass break-up. "It frees up our linebackers and allows everyone to stay in coverage. The NEC is very competitive. You have to treat every game like it's a championship."

Paw Prints: UAlbany won its sixth consecutive Homecoming & Fall Festival game and improved to 28-11 all-time ... the Great Danes avenged a pair of losses to Robert Morris, after suffering a 38-0 setback last year and a last-second 13-10 defeat in 2009

... the Great Danes have won four in a row, their longest win streak since October 2009

... UAlbany's offense has totaled more than 435 yards in four consecutive games for the first time since the 2000 campaign ... QB Dan Di Lella's 279 passing yards ties the eighth-highest single-game total in program history ... TB Andrew Smith gained 100-plus all-purpose yards for the fourth straight game ... DT Zach Gallo had three tackles and a sack and joined the 100-career tackle club (102) ... Megan Buchanan (1996-00), basketball & golf, Steve Checksfield (1998-02), baseball & football, Samantha Cohen (1995-99,) cross country/track & field, and Howard Sellers (1990-94), track & field, were inducted into the UAlbany Athletic Hall of Fame on Friday evening and served as honorary game captains for the pre-game coin toss.

University of Albany's Paul Lagno Leads Men's Cross Country to Second Straight UAlbany Invitational Title - UAlbany Sports 2011

Albany, N.Y. - Paul Lagno successfully defends title and led University at Albany to second consecutive title in the R.K. Munsey Men's Championship Race at the 45th Annual UAlbany Invitational Saturday afternoon held on a modified 8k course due to construction.

Lagno finished with a time of 24:42.6 in the men's 8,000-meter course, giving the Great Danes their fourth first overall finisher in the last ten years. Last week's America East Conference Men's Cross Country Performer of the Week Chris Burke finished second overall with a 24:45.9 time. Ethan Clary placed fourth for UAlbany, crossing the line at 25:20.9. The 185 competitors could not pass the trio, as they led from start to finish. Rounding out the top-five Great Danes finishers were Chris Buchanan in twelfth (25:55.7) and Alex Leuchanka in seventeenth (26:06.2).

"For the first year on the new course site it was a huge undertaking to get ready," said UAlbany Coach Craig McVey. "As for the race, we raced real well and the 25 visiting schools that competed loved the course too. Overall, today and the course was an awesome setting for cross country."

UAlbany, ranked 10th in the latest USTFCCA Division I Northeast Regional Poll, took the crown over the 21 competing teams by finishing 14 points ahead of second place finisher Binghamton. Division III standout Middlebury College took third place, finishing 70 points ahead of fourth place University of New Hampshire. Rounding out the top-five team scores was Brandeis who had two top-20 finishers.

In the Men's Purple 8k Race, Marist harrier Nick Salek finished the course first in 26:49.5. UAlbany had three top-five finishers; Patrick Murphy (3rd, 27:09.2), Ryan Florkiewicz (4th, 27:12.9) and John Dellalo (5th, 27:13.8).

The Great Dane harriers will now focus on the America East Championship, hosted by UAlbany on Saturday, October 29th. "We are excited with the conference (championship) meet coming up in two weeks," McVey on the upcoming championship portion of the season. "This next week it's all about going back and evaluating what we did on our own course and taking that to practice for the next two weeks. We will find out where we are and by the time we get to the championship meet we will be two weeks more prepared and healthier."

Friday, October 14, 2011

University of Albany Volleyball Remains Undefeated in America East Play; Downs Hartford in Three Sets - UAlbany Sports 2011

West Hartford, Conn. - Casey Wright recorded a match-high 14 kills on .609 hitting, along with six total blocks, leading UAlbany to a three-set sweep of Hartford in America East Conference volleyball action on Friday evening. The Great Danes, who remain undefeated in league play, won the match with set scores of 25-15, 25-17 and 25-22. UAlbany has now won 11 of the team's last 12 matches, including seven straight.

UAlbany jumped out to a quick 6-1 lead, as senior Brooke Stanley started the match with two service aces, sandwiched around a Hartford setting error. Wright recorded back-to-back kills to put UAlbany up, 12-6, and Dunja Prgomet served for three straight points, including a solo block by Wright. Michelle Cordell recorded a kill for Hartford to pull the Hawks within 15-9, but UAlbany continued to roll. A Hawk service error put the ball in Samantha Brostrom's hand for the Great Danes, building up a 20-11 lead. UAlbany got to set point on a block by Wright and Stanley, but Cordell took an assist from Danielle Etta to keep the set going. Wright then put a kill down the middle to end the set in UAlbany's favor.

The teams played a closer start to the second set, tying it up three times in the early going before Wright recorded a kill to give UAlbany's Abbey Wexel serve. Wexel served for four consecutive points, getting a kill and a block from Wright in the rally, and putting the Great Danes head, 10-5. Brostrom recorded two kills for UAlbany to build the Great Danes' advantage to 15-8, forcing Hartford to take a timeout to regroup. The Hawks got back-to-back kills from Kami Nethersole, pulling within 16-13. However, the Great Danes continued to build a lead, holding onto a five point lead, 20-15, on another solo block by Wright. The senior middle blocker then got UAlbany to set point and recorded the set-winning kill once again.

The third set was an early back-and-forth battle, with eight ties before UAlbany took the lead for good. Stanley served up an ace to knot the set at 11-11, and then served for three more points, including another ace, putting the Great Danes up, 14-11. The teams exchanged points before Hartford pulled within 18-17 on a UAlbany error. The Great Danes responded with a block by Wright and Stanley, and built up a 21-17 lead with kills by Brostrom and Stanley. Nethersole tallied back-to-back kills, pulling Hartford to within 23-21, prompting UAlbany to take a timeout. Brostrom tallied her 11th kill of the match to give the Great Danes set point, but Lindsay Anderson extended the set for Hartford. Stanley ended the set with a kill, keeping UAlbany's league record unblemished.

Stanley quarterbacked the Great Danes to a .327 team hitting percentage, finishing with 34 assists, along with three kills, two digs and four service aces. Laurie Gonzalez led the team defensively, recorded a match-high 20 digs, while Prgomet added nine digs and five kills. Traci Vandegrift recorded eight kills on .375 hitting.

Nethersole led Hartford (10-12, AE 1-4) with 11 kills, while Cordell added eight kills and 10 digs. Sareeta Nethersole added eight kills and nine digs. Setter Jackie Tamburri finished with 27 assists, seven digs and two block assists for the Hawks.

University of Albany Field Hockey Blanks Vermont, 3-0, in America East Play to Record Third Straight Shutout - UAlbany Sports 2011

Albany, N.Y. - Freshman Chloe Pachuilo scored her first collegiate goal in the second minute of the game off her own rebound shot. University at Albany scored two more goals in the second half for the 3-0 America East Conference win over University of Vermont on Friday afternoon.
UAlbany (11-5, 2-1 AE), in its third of four home game stretch, completed its third straight shutout and allowed only one shot by Vermont (6-8, 0-3 AE). In the second half, Daphne Voormolen tallied her seventh on the year with a long shot just inside the arch to put the ball past Catamount goalkeeper Stephanie Zigmunt. Chantae Miller added an insurance goal in the 62nd minute, making it 3-0, with a short pass from Katharina Helling.

In the backfield, Zigmunt made 14 saves to bring her season total to 138, which is leads all America East goalkeepers. For UAlbany, Kristi Troch saved the one Vermont shot on goal and completed her fourth shutout of the season, again leading the league.

The Great Danes controlled both shots and penalty corners with a 31-4 and 14-3 edge, respectively.

On Sunday, October 16 the Great Danes will host Delaware at 1:30 p.m to complete a four-game home stand. UAlbany will be hosting the 2nd Annual "Stick it to Cancer" fundraiser and clinic, with all proceeds split between the Luke Romano Fund and National Foundation for Cancer Research.