Senior Safety Dave West & UAlbany Football Team Meet Media at Annual Preseason Luncheon

Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

Gone are the days when a collegiate athlete competes in two or three sports year-round on a regular basis. Most athletes have become specialized in one sport, and focus all of their time and energy with a single purpose.

The NCAA doesn’t officially keep track of the number of dual-sport athletes, but outside the realm of track and field and cross country, the dual-sport student-athlete at the college level is a rare breed. Most talented student-athletes make a choice in high school to continue with one sport at the collegiate level. Then there are athletes like UAlbany’s Dave West, who simply could not, and would not, make a choice.

West, a senior safety on the Great Danes’ football team, is also the starting center fielder for the school’s baseball squad. West has earned All-Northeast Conference recognition during his time on the football field, helping UAlbany win the 2007 league championship. He also was an All-America East Conference selection on the diamond, bringing baseball to its first-ever conference title and NCAA tournament appearance in 2006. West wanted that challenge from the beginning.

“I couldn’t make up my mind,” West stated at Tuesday’s football media luncheon in the SEFCU Athletic Hall of Fame Room. “I knew that I had to play both.”

While most schools that were interested in him wanted him to focus on one or the other, UAlbany offered West the solution he was looking for – an opportunity to continue both his football and baseball career wearing purple and gold.

“I have always had the philosophy that if you want to play another sport – play it,” said UAlbany’s Bob Ford, who is in his 40th season as a college head football coach. “It takes a unique athlete to be able to excel in college athletics in two sports.”

Ford, along with head baseball coach Jon Mueller, saw the potential for West to succeed in both areas at UAlbany. Despite having to miss fall baseball to play football, and not being able to participate in spring football practice in order to play baseball, West has convinced both coaches that being a dual-sport athlete is worth the sacrifice.

“We are lucky because Dave is such a cerebral guy on the field,” said defensive backs coach Drew Christ, who works with West on his positional play. “We changed things schematically in the spring, so when he came back in the fall, he was a little lost. But he understands the game, and is such a natural athlete that the transition was smooth.”


West believes his biggest challenge is changing how he approaches his game with the different coaches.


“Coach Ford is old school, and wants us to focus on execution,” West explained. “He talks to us about how it isn’t about what scheme you’re running, but about what players you have. Coach Mueller is more hard-nosed and just wants us to get after it.”

Not to say that West’s respect for either coach waivers.


“I have a great deal of respect for both of them,” West stated. “Coach Ford has been around for so long, and with his reputation and accomplishments, you want to show your best all the time. With Coach Mueller, I can talk to him on a different level. I agree with the way he does things and how he coaches.”


West focuses on each sport individually, but carries over aspects from each into the opposite season. With a short three-week rest between the end of football season and the start of baseball preseason, West doesn’t get much down time. He has discovered that although the baseball training focuses more on running and maintenance of fitness, he benefits more from continuing his football routine in the weight room.


This work ethic has helped him succeed on both the football field and the baseball diamond, something both coaches appreciate.


“Dave is a great kid to coach, he is tough both physically and mentally,” said Ford, whose team has been picked to repeat as conference champion in the NEC’s preseason poll. “By playing baseball in the spring, it is giving him another competitive opportunity. It is not a negative experience to have him compete in baseball. He is a great addition to both teams and has been on the same upward track since he arrived.”


A natural athlete who has been playing organized sports since he was five years old, West takes the challenge of playing two sports at the Division I level in stride.


“I didn’t realize it was such an accomplishment,” West said. “There were so many people who played more than one sport in high school, I didn’t think it was a big deal.”


For the Great Danes, having a highly successful two-sport athlete is a big deal. And for his coaches, they couldn’t ask for anything more.


“He is very gifted athletically,” Mueller explained. “He is focused and determined and I am very proud of him. He is a very tough kid.”

(By Brianna LaBrecque, UAlbany Athletic Media Relations)

University of Virginia's Harris Transfers To UAlbany

Will Harris is returning to his home state.

Harris, who's from Queens, N.Y., confirmed yesterday that he's transferring from the University of Virginia to the University of Albany. The 6-6, 245-pound forward will have two seasons of eligibility for the Great Danes after sitting out 2008-09.

Albany's assistant coaches include Jeremy Friel, whose brother Keith played basketball at U.Va. before Harris enrolled there.

Harris was looking for a program where he could have a bigger impact, and "I feel like it's a situation where I can go in and do some good things," he said.

As a freshman, coincidentally, Harris played against Albany. He went scoreless in nine minutes in the Cavaliers' 84-57 romp over the Great Danes in the NCAA tournament's first round.

Harris, who turns 22 next week, played in 47 games for U.Va., with three starters, and averaged 3.3 points and 3.0 rebounds. In his most memorable game, Harris totaled 14 points and six rebounds in a December 2006 victory over N.C. State.

Back problems limited Harris to 15 games in 2007-08, but he said he's healthy again and feels great.

Harris, who also considered Marist and Valparaiso, said he's bittersweet about leaving U.Va. He's excited about the opportunity that awaits him at Albany but will miss Virginia's players and coaches.

"I loved it out here," he said. "My experience here was great." -- Jeff White

Super Bowl Champion N.Y. Giants End Training Camp at UAlbany with Morning Workout

Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

The New York Giants concluded their 2008 training camp with an 80-minute morning practice at the University at Albany on Sunday, Aug. 17. The team will play its second preseason game on Monday evening against the Cleveland Browns at Giants Stadium. Head coach Tom Coughlin signed autographs as he left the practice field for the last time this summer with his defending Super Bowl champion squad.

The Giants’ thirteenth camp at UAlbany produced the second-highest attendance total since the NFL team started training in the Capital Region in 1996. More than 44,000 fans attended 19 practice days and 29 practice sessions since camp opened on July 25.

The Giants averaged 2,342 fans per day to break the previous mark of 2,145 that was established over 21 days during 2004. The final attendance total rose 36.6 percent over last summer.

UAlbany will again host training camp in 2009, with a possible extension to be discussed in the future. The Giants’ 14th training camp at the school will be the longest at any location in franchise history. The New York Giants spent thirteen summers at Pace University in Pleasantville, N.Y. from 1975-87.

New York Giants May Be At UAlbany For Long Haul

Mara says team could train in Albany after '09

When the Giants return to the University at Albany next summer, the trip may not be the farewell tour many once expected.

Though the team is building a state-of-the-art training facility at The Meadowlands and even though the contract between the Giants and UAlbany expires after next summer, the Giants now appear to be leaning toward a future in Albany.

Giants president John Mara said after a practice earlier this week, "There's a pretty good chance that we could come back here after 2009."

Mara added that internal discussions about the camp's future have yet to take place. But as the Giants held their final practice of camp Saturday, officials with both the school and the team cautioned against assuming the 13-year relationship will end next August.

Instead of abandoning the concept of training camp in Albany altogether, the Giants instead may change the model. For instance, the team could spend two weeks in Albany at the beginning of camp before moving operations to the new facility being built in East Rutherford, N.J.

"That's an idea," Mara said. "We haven't really discussed it yet. There are just a lot of positives to coming up here that we might not want to give up."

The camp's 2008 version proved one of the most successful. The Giants, on the heels of a Super Bowl title, drew 43,760 fans, the second-highest total at UAlbany. This marked just the third time more than 40,000 people came through campus.

"It is definitely nice to see that," Mara said. "We've got a great reception from people up here, and believe me, we've noticed."

The Giants' interest extends well beyond fan support. UAlbany offers five practice fields near Western Avenue, locker-room facilities inside SEFCU Arena and a support staff.

Though the team will have four practice fields at its new facility, it might be worthwhile to save the wear and tear on those fields for the regular season, Mara said, and instead beat up UAlbany's fields in the summer.

Moving camp to The Meadowlands also would force the Giants to contract with a hotel to house players. Here, UAlbany provides dormitories.

A camp away from the New York City area also curbs distractions. Keeping players bunked in dormitories on Freedom Quad fosters bonding and focus, players said.

"It gets you into the mind-set of being at training camp," Giants center Shaun O'Hara said. "It's 24 hours of football. You're so busy that distractions are at a minimum already."

Mara said he expects to reach a decision on the future site of camp before next summer. But history shows he need not rush the decision. When the Giants first came to Albany in 1996, they made the announcement in March -- just four months before the start of camp.

Two weeks ago, Mara met with UAlbany athletics director Lee McElroy and interim president George Philip to discuss the more immediate future. At that time, Mara told school officials the Giants planned to return for next summer; the Giants could have terminated the contract at the conclusion of this camp.

Both sides said discussions about long-term plans and another contract may take place as soon as this fall.
"We don't know where we're going after 2009," McElroy said. "I don't have a sense that they have any particular model in mind. Do they want to do the four-week model or do they want to shorten it? We haven't gotten to that stage of the discussion yet."

By PETE IORIZZO, Staff writer
First published: Sunday, August 17, 2008

UAlbany's School of Public Health, Peace Corps Partner to Offer Master's International Program

The University of Albany School of Public Health has been selected to partner with the International Peace Corps Master's International (MI) Program. Joining a group of nine other Schools of Public Health involved in the Program, including Johns Hopkins University, Boston University and George Washington University, the UAlbany School of Public Health will offer the program beginning in 2009.
The MI Program was established in 1987 by the Peace Corps to meet the increased need for international Peace Corps volunteers with higher levels of education and technical skills and to enable universities to provide internationally-focused experiences for students.

Students accepted to the MI Program will earn a Master of Public Health (MPH) degree and spend 27 months serving in the Peace Corps while earning the degree. Following their experience in the Peace Corps, students will return to the School of Public Health for one final semester to complete work toward the MPH degree.

Participation in the MI Program expands upon other global health initiatives underway within the School of Public Health, including the establishment of the Center for Global Health and the School's strong connection to the local Returned Peace Corps Volunteer (RPCV) organization.

"It is an honor to have our School of Public Health selected as a partner for the Master's International Program," said Provost Susan Phillips. "The School has made global health a priority and its partnership with the Peace Corps allows students international opportunities."

"The MI program fits naturally with the University strategy for internationalizing the University at Albany by encouraging our students to experience international service learning opportunities," said Ray Bromley, vice provost for International Education.

"I am extremely pleased to have our School selected as a partner in the MI Program," said SPH dean Philip C. Nasca. "We join a small and very select group of Schools of Public Health offering this unique opportunity for students to practice public health in an international setting while working towards the MPH degree. Our students will come to the program with global health knowledge and skills gained from their academic preparation and be prepared to capably serve the Peace Corps."

Through its partnership with the New York State Department of Health, UAlbany's School of Public Health offers students immediate access to internships at the Health Department, Albany Medical College, and variety of other public and private health institutions throughout New York. The school serves as the academic anchor of the East Campus, the biotech hub of the university's life sciences research, which includes the Cancer Research Center, home to the Gen*NY*Sis Center for Excellence in Cancer Genomics and the Center for Functional Genomics.

Students and faculty at UAlbany's globally-oriented School of Public Health study the most profound health issues facing us today: the origins of disease such as cancer, the threat of bioterrorism, the spread of HIV/AIDS and other emerging diseases, the lack of affordable and accessible health care for individuals and families, environmental hazards, substance abuse and social violence, maternal mortality in developing countries, the promises and threats of genetic engineering, and protecting food and water supplies.

Courtesy: UAlbany News

University of Albany Nature Preserve

Entry Plaza - University Hall

Entry Plaza Video

Embrace Albany As A Great College Sports Town

The apparent demise of the Conquest and the Patroons should be a clear message to the residents and politicians of Albany: You do not live or work in a professional sports town! You live in a college town and it is about time you start realizing it!

Forget the Conquest. Take a ride up Western or Washington avenue and support a Division I football team (UAlbany). Forget the Patroons. Stick around the SEFCU Arena on the UAlbany Campus or head downtown to the Times Union Center for the Division I hoops of UAlbany and Siena. Like hockey? Then support the two Division I hockey teams (Union & RPI). Your kids want to play lacrosse? Did you know that some of the best college lacrosse this country has to offer is being played on the campuses of UAlbany and siena? Not to mention the numerous other teams fielded by UAlbany, Siena, Union, RPI, Sage, Saint Rose, and Hudson Valley.

Why does the Capital Region need second-rate professional sports franchises when it already has first-tier college athletics? Your first chance to support your real hometown teams starts at 1pm Oct. 11th when your NEC Champion UAlbany Great Danes football team begins its title defense. Embrace what the area offers. Bring the kids out for some tailgating and Division I football.

Written By: ANTHONY SCIARRA
Posted As: Letter to the Editor (TU)

New York Giants Coach Tom Coughlin Addresses UAlbany Football Team at Wednesday Practice

Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

New York Giants head coach Tom Coughlin spoke to the University at Albany football team following the Great Danes’ morning practice on Wednesday, Aug. 13. Coughlin, who coached the Giants to last year’s Super Bowl championship, addressed the squad for the second consecutive year.

UAlbany will scrimmage on Saturday, Aug. 16 during the 9:00 a.m. practice session to end the second week of preseason camp. The Great Danes are also coming off a championship season as the program won the 2007 Northeast Conference title. The New York Giants conclude their thirteenth summer training camp at UAlbany on Aug. 17.

EXCERPTS FROM TOM COUGHLIN’S TALK TO UALBANY FOOTBALL TEAM

I have to say this, and, of course, I am a little prejudiced about the situation. The reason (last season) was such a wonderful thing was that it was great for football. It is the All-American success story. There’s no doubt about it, and that’s the message that I would give all of you guys.”

You all had a heck of a year last year. Coach (Bob) Ford and his staff are an outstanding, outstanding staff, and Coach Ford and I have been good friends for a long time.

You don’t let anybody ever tell you that you can’t do anything. You never do. I just finished writing a book. People are going to say ‘why did you write a book, coach? What’s this book all about?’ You know what the book is for? So that my grandchildren and their grandchildren know the real story about this 2007 New York Giants world championship football team.”

The greatest thing about it is that nobody expected it. We can go all the way back and talk about the parade and why the people were the way they were. They were ecstatic and they were hanging off of buildings. Nobody worked. It was because no one expected it.

* * *

So we’re 0-2, and we’ve given up a zillion points. We go to Washington to play, and as Bob (Ford) mentioned, Mike Sullivan comes into my office. He is my receiver coach. He comes into my office and says, ‘coach, I have a friend of mine who played with me at West Point by the name of Greg Gadson, who is a Lieutenant Colonel who was in Iraq, who was wounded in Iraq, and is stationed in Washington. I was wondering if I could bring him over to say hello to us on Saturday night.’ So I said, ‘Mike, that would be a great idea. Let me know more about Lieutenant Colonel Gadson.’

So he went on to tell me the story about Greg Gadson. I got on the phone, I talked with him, and I said, ‘how about you come over and speak to our team on Saturday night?’ Now I don’t ever let anyone speak to our team, okay? It just doesn’t happen that way. Maybe once a year, you have a speaker in the offseason or something. But normally during the season, you don’t have that opportunity.

So Greg came over. Now Greg has lost both legs from above the knees. He was wounded in Iraq, and he was on the fast track in the military. He was an outstanding linebacker at West Point. Just a great human being.

So Greg spoke to our team, and he spoke about all the most important things. Remember when I had a story for you about General Ray Odierno the year before and about team first? That’s basically what Greg talked about, too. The man on your left and the man on your right, you put yourself and well being in their hands and they do the same with you.

The story that he left me with was one of vigilance. Vigilance. In our game, vigilance means preparation. Vigilance means doing everything the right way. It’s easy to say that, but not easy to do it.

He talked about being in Iraq and what, as the leader of a battalion, what he really worried about was when the soldiers came off of a detail, a night detail, and hadn’t fired their weapons. He was really concerned about that, because he was really concerned about human nature. Human nature is, ‘well, I was out last night and I didn’t have to fire my weapon. I was safe. I have to go out on detail again tonight on patrol, and I’ll be safe again. It just takes care of itself.’ Those were the kind of people that he was most worried about. Would they clean their weapon correctly?

The story directly applied to us as well. When he told that story and he finished speaking, I decided that the impact of what he said was enough. I was prepared for my meeting, but I dismissed the players.

* * *

When the coaches are talking to you about the way you win and the way you lose. Guys who are really sharp and really into it pay attention to the details, the details.

The fact that we stopped (the Redskins) on a goal-line stand provided us with the confidence and the emphasis to go ahead. We were 6-2 and won six straight. We went over to Europe to beat the Dolphins in a mud bath. That experience was a great experience.

But the other thing that came about because of our season. Just as you have young people, every year is a new year and every team is a new team. It’s just the way our game is. So when you start over, you have to integrate all kinds of new bodies and new people.

We have been given a lot of credit for our great draft class from a year ago. And how was it that when we got into the playoffs the kids all came together? Well I’ll tell you how it was. They were integrated with the team idea, and they were responsible and they were accountable because each guy in their group made each one of them feel like they were directly responsible for whether or not we were going to win or lose.

As we went down the stretch, all of these young kids, whether it’s (Ahmad) Bradshaw, or (Kevin) Boss, or Michael Johnson. Any name you want to claim of that draft class, and it may not be in the front page of the New York Times, but it was, it was. And they were key factors in our winning.

We go to Green Bay, and there’s a play. We intercept the ball; we bring it back to the middle of the field. R.W. McQuarters. It’s 24 below zero. He gets hit, and he fumbles the ball. The Green Bay players are right there to pick the ball up. Does he go down and cover the ball? No. He reaches down like he’s going to pick it up and advance it. Michael Johnson, a rookie, reaches down, swoops the ball and Domenik Hixon covers the ball up. We have the ball at midfield whereas (Brett) Favre would’ve had the ball at midfield and the end of the game could’ve changed.

In the Super Bowl, Bradshaw is going to take an exchange. He slides over to Eli (Manning) to accept the ball and he doesn’t get his elbow up high enough. The ball goes on the ground. A New England Patriot linebacker goes on the ball. Bradshaw goes down under the pile and steals the ball back. (Rodney) Harrison is standing there going like this. He’s pointing for a first down and they have the ball at the 30-yard line. The significance, I’m sure, you understand.

Those are the plays that don’t end up on the front page, but they are just as important as every play and any play that allowed us to win the world championship. We would not have won it without those two plays.

They were made by rookies. They were made by guys who understood that they could not let the other guy down.

* * *

You are at the end of your second week. General Odierno was here again the other day. He came to visit our team. He walked into this group right here and said, ‘guys, I know that at the end of the second week, you have been banging into each other and you’re tired and sore.’

It’s tough to think about the soldiers in Iraq that are performing in 125-degree temperatures with over 100 pounds of equipment on for five to six hours at a time. Sometimes when you are able to do that, and focus on other things, and realize there are other ways for which you should go ahead and evaluate your personal values, you sort of find that you don’t have a whole lot to complain about.

I’ve listened to you, and you have great enthusiasm. The coaches tell me that (preseason) camp is going very well. You guys had a heck of a year last year, and an opportunity to build on this again this year.

Just remember that as hard as it is for us right now and I’m trying to get this done with our team and we’re not there yet either, there’s always going to be team first. It’s always going to be team above self. It’s always going to be people who are willing to take the name off the back of their jersey and pay the price and sacrifice for the good of the team. Because in the long run, individuals play the game and teams win championships. Good luck to you guys.

UAlbany Football Picked to Win NEC Title, Six Players on Preseason All-Conference Team

Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

Somerset, N.J. – According to a preseason poll of Northeast Conference head coaches, the University at Albany has been chosen to defend its conference football championship in 2008. The Great Danes, who became the fifth team in NEC history to go undefeated in league play en route to last year’s title, received five first-place votes. Monmouth placed second in the voting with two first-place votes, while Central Connecticut State was third with one vote to finish first in the standings.

This year’s NEC champion will host the winner of the Pioneer Football League in the third annual Gridiron Classic, an exempted postseason football game that takes place on Saturday, Dec. 6. The Northeast Conference receives an automatic NCAA Division I FCS playoff berth, beginning in 2010. In addition, Duquesne joins the conference as its eighth football-playing member this season.

“Our school and program are respected and that’s a major reason why we were voted to win the conference,” said UAlbany’s Bob Ford, who leads all active FCS head coaches with 225 career victories. “Our offensive line has a strong nucleus returning and we have a great tailback. The defense is solid with some key players back from last year. But I tell the squad every day that we have arrived at a point where you can lose on any weekend in this conference.”

The Great Danes, who won the NEC crown for the third time since joining the league in 1999, finished with an 8-4 overall record. Coach Ford has 46 letterwinners, including 11 starters, back from last year’s championship team. UAlbany has produced seven or more wins six times as an Division I FCS program.

**********

2008 Northeast Conference Preseason Coaches Football Poll

1. UAlbany (5), 2. Monmouth (2), 3. Central Connecticut State (1), 4. Wagner, 5. Duquesne, 6. Robert Morris, 7. Sacred Heart, 8. St. Francis, Pa. ( ) – first-place votes

*********

Somerset, N.J. – The Northeast Conference announced its 2008 preseason all-conference football team. UAlbany had six players voted to the squad by the conference’s head coaches. Nineteen of the 25 student-athletes on the preseason all-star unit earned NEC postseason honors last year.

David McCarty, who was named to the Sports Network FCS All-America team, ran for 1,503 yards, the third-highest single-season total in program history. The junior tailback ranked 10th among the nation’s rushing leaders at 125.3 yards per game. McCarty, who also totaled 1,634 all-purpose yards, gained 100 or more yards on the ground in eight games. He was a second-team All-NEC selection in 2007.

Raphael Nguti, a 6-foot-7, 330-pound right tackle, and Kevin Richards, a 6-foot-2, 270-pound center, were also voted to the league’s preseason team. Nguti, a first-team All-NEC lineman, has made 33 career appearances and may have an opportunity to play at the next level with his size. Richards anchored a line that helped the offense average 208.6 rushing yards and 362.5 total yards per game.

Defensive tackle Tom Pandolf was one of five UAlbany players who were named to last season’s all-conference first team. He accounted for 37 tackles, three sacks and 6.5 hits for a loss. Justin Brancaccio, a junior inside linebacker, was second on the UAlbany defense in tackles with 63 and added two forced fumbles and one fumble recovery. Dave West, a senior safety, made 60 tackles, including 44 unassisted, and had five pass break-ups and two interceptions. West earned second-team All-NEC recognition last season.

New York Giants Will Return to University of Albany for Summer Training Camp in 2009

Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

It’s official – the Giants will hold training camp at the University of Albany in 2009.

The team announced on Monday, Aug. 11 that it has picked up the option on its contract and will train here for the 14th consecutive summer next year. The Giants have trained at UAlbany since 1996.

"We look forward to continuing our relationship with the University at Albany and the city of Albany," said Giants president John Mara. "UAlbany is our summer home, and that's not just because of the great resources and facilities we are provided, but it is mostly because the administration and staff have made us feel welcome and have always gone out of their way to accommodate our needs."

The school has always been a popular camp venue for Giants fans, but particularly this year. The Giants have been drawing fans here at a record pace. Through 13 practices days, the camp attendance is 33,540. That puts them ahead of the pace in 2004, when the camp attendance record of 45,040 was set. After 13 practice days that year, the count was 30,110.

"The Giants have been part of the University at Albany family since 1996," said UAlbany Interim President George Philip. "We're pleased that they will be back for the 2009 summer training camp."

The Giants’ 14th training camp at UAlbany will be the longest at any location in the franchise history. The Giants spent thirteen summers at Pace University in Pleasantville, N.Y. from 1975-87. The Giants, who have also trained in the states of Vermont, Connecticut, New Jersey, Wisconsin and Oregon, previously worked out at Fairleigh Dickinson University (1988-95) in Madison, New Jersey prior to their arrival on the UAlbany campus.



(Courtesy Michael Eisen & New York Giants)

Merrick Takes Lead By Two On MLL Top Goal Scorers List

UAlbany alum Merrick Thomson powered the Pride’s second-half run to complete the comeback, adding three second-half goals to his second period assist to register four points, and put himself two goals ahead of John Grant Jr. of Rochester, who will close his season against Chicago this weekend.

It took 12 weeks, but the Pride finally reached .500 in 2008 with a thrilling come-from-behind, overtime victory over Philadelphia, 17-16.

The Pride overcame an early 6-0 hole to battle back to a 16-16 tie at the end of regulation, and Matt Rewkowski found the back of the net to earn the Pride their third consecutive win to close the season.

The Pride nearly won it early in overtime as they took the opening possession down and Matt Danowski fired a shot past Kevin Keenan. The ball struck iron though, and rebounded out to midfield, ending the scoring threat.

After several fruitless possessions for each team, Stephen Peyser took the ball near the top of the two-point arc and, following a double team, fed Rewkowski.

“I just did my job,” Peyser said. “I did a dodge down the side, got the double and passed it to Rewk.”

With the game in his stick, Rewkowski faked the shot, stepped inside and fired one past Keenan for the win.

The game not only breeds optimism for next season as the conclusion of the three-game tear, but also was as far from what many expect from the Pride franchise as a team can get. In addition to winning in overtime, the bane of the Pride’s existence in recent years, the Pride overcame a huge deficit by continuing to fight, rather than wilting in the face of a terrible start.

“We started off just dead flat,” Pride coach Peter Jacobs said. “From the middle of the first to the end we played better.

“It’s one of those things where you need a little spark.”

The Pride found that spark early in their rookies, who combined for the Pride’s first seven points in their last game as, perhaps, the most talented rookie corps in league history.

Peyser had three goals in the run, and Danowski added two goals with one behind the arc. Another rookie, defenseman Joe Cinosky added the final strike to pull the Pride within 10-7.

In total, Peyser had four goals for the Pride to earn Bud Light MVP Honors.

The Pride halved the six-point hole by halftime at 11-8, despite a large disparity in penalty time. The Barrage were awarded seven minutes of man-up time to the Pride’s 2.5, and the lack of calls on Philadelphia, most notably Brian Spallina putting his stick on two Pride players after the whistle had blown play dead.

“A couple of their guys were cheaping us,” Jacobs said, “and our guys are retaliating, which stinks because that’s how you get caught.

“It’s a travesty.”

While the Pride entered looking to take advantage of the Barrage’s hot-heads and physical play to earn the man-up, Jacobs was less than thrilled with the way the game was called,

“Obviously [playing physical didn’t work],” Jacobs said, “because they were calling the penalties on us.”

The victory was a part of a larger season-ending run by the Pride. In addition to the 3-0 finish, the Pride closed the year going 6-3 after incorporating their full rookie crop into the line-up.

“[The win] means the world to us,” Peyser said. “We knew we had a great team, it was just a matter of finding the right pieces to the puzzle.

“It’s a lot of positive things. We’ve got a great face-off kid [Danny Brennan}, a great defense and a some stars on offense.”

One of those stars, a relative veteran on the rookie-heavy team, is second-year Merrick Thomson, who put himself temporarily in first in the MLL in goal-scoring.

While the late charge was not enough to pull the Pride into the postseason, there is much cause for optimism heading into the 2009 season. With victories over both of the Eastern Conference’s playoff teams during their run, the Pride have shown they already have the talent to compete with anyone. Next season, they will hope that another year of experience will take them from competitive to dominant.

By Bobby Ingram

#14 UAlbany Field Hockey Set to Hold Walk-On Tryouts

Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

UAlbany Field Hockey finished last season (Fall 2007) with an RPI Ranking of #14 in the nation, and #19 in the final coaches poll.

The University of Albany field hockey team will hold walk-on tryouts on August 15-16.

The team will practice from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. and 3:30 p.m to 5:30 p.m. on August 15. Practice will run from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on August 16. This will conclude the tryout period, and players will be notified of status immediately following.


Those individuals expressing interest must complete and bring (1) complete NCAA compliance paperwork and (2) written documentation of an updated physical done by a physician at home, which states they are cleared to participate in athletic activities. Individuals who do not provide both pieces of paperwork before the start of the morning session will not be able to participate in the tryouts. The link for the NCAA compliance form can be found by clicking on the following link:
https://admin.xosn.com/attachments1/5754.pdf?SPSID=82359&SPID=7966&DB_OEM_ID=15800

All individuals participating in tryouts must be registered with the NCAA Clearinghouse.

For more information, contact assistant coach Andy Thornton by email: athornton@uamail.albany.edu, or by phone: 518-605-09182

University of Albany's Africana Studies Graduate Program Ranks Second in Nation

The University of Albany Africana Studies graduate program has maintained its ranking as second in the nation, according to Diverse Issues in Higher Education magazine.

"For the past six years, the master's program has been ranked number two in the nation. It is because of our excellent faculty, outstanding students, and supportive administrators that we have earned this ranking. Moreover, our graduates have excelled academically and professionally," said Marcia Sutherland, professor and chair of the Africana Studies Department. "With continued support and diligent effort, the department will soon be ranked number one in the nation."

Created in 1969 in the wake and tumult of the civil rights movement, the master's degree program has attracted a growing number of international students. UAlbany is the only school in the SUNY university system that offers a master's degree in Africana Studies.

UAlbany's program ranks second behind Ohio State University. Other schools in the top 10 include New York University, University at Massachusetts at Amherst, Temple University, Columbia University, University of Wisconsin at Madison, and the University of California-Los Angeles and Berkeley campuses.

The top-10 ranking is based on a synthesis of data from the U.S. Department of Education and National Center for Education and Statistics. An on-site evaluation by outside professors was also conducted. The magazine also looked at the number of graduating students, diversity of the program, and quality of faculty.

Diverse Issues in Higher Education, which is published bi-weekly, carries in-depth and up-to-date coverage of the diverse education community, including African Americans, Native Americans, Asian Americans, and Hispanic Americans, as well as Americans with disabilities and women.

Courtesy: Catherine Herman

Vote In Democratic Primary TODAY - Charlie Voelker - For NY State Senator of Albany County - Volunteer - Polls Open From 12-9PM

The University of Albany NEEDS a voice in the New York State Senate! Finally, the University has a potential NYS Senator that would fight for the University's future, Charlie Voelker. The University has the support in the Assembly, but it is vital to have the support in the Senate as well. Charlie Voelker will deliver huge dividends for UAlbany and Albany county.

Charlie Voelker Campaign

“Getting Charlie elected could be HUGE for our programs. Both athletic and educational. We need a Senator from Albany that is willing to work for the school as hard as LaValle with Stony Brook.” Quote from an acquaintance of Charlie Voelker.

The first step: Democratic Primary: Voting takes place on Tuesday, September 9.

This is a big first step. Charlie Voelker will need you to get out and vote on September 9th, as he is aiming to oust (D)Neil Breslin, and break up the monopoly Breslin and his brothers hold on Albany politics.

If you are a University of Albany supporter, in athletics or academics, or an Albany County resident, you need to support Charlie Voelker. As a hometown man, he has our interests at heart. He has spent his life in Albany and supporting the university.

Charlie will certainly invest in his alma mater. By investing in the university, the returns for Albany country are enormous. The University already has a 2 billion dollar economic impact on Albany County. Although a state university, it is the largest, by far, economic engine in the region. Without the university and its growth, Albany country will suffer.

Residents in Albany County belong to District 46 of the NYS Senate:
Albany, Colonie, Guilderland, Knox, Bethlehem, New Scotland, Berne, Westerlo, Coeymans, Rensselearville, the cities of Cohoes and Watervliet, and the Village/Town of Green Island

District Map

Volunteer: This weekend and on PRIMARY DAY

The Voelker campaign would appreciate any assistance you could provide. Lawn signs, door to door, etc.

They seek volunteers to go to their local polling places from 4:30 to 6:30 or thereabouts on Tuesday, September 9. They will provide volunteers with t-shirts, signs and information to hand out to voters.

Call: (best option)
(518) 281-3554
(518) 429-1701

Email:
Charlie@Charlievoelker.com
Rob@CharlieVoelker.com


A Word From Charlie Voelker:

Welcome to Demand More Albany. I am very excited about the upcoming few weeks. It is time to restore the pride in New York State government. There have been periods in our history where citizens have had to stand up and change the direction our leaders have taken. September 9 is your chance to stand up for you and your family.

It’s time that we elect a person that has real business development experience; one that has fresh ideas on how to lower taxes and stimulate job growth. It is time that we elect a senator who has lived his entire life in New York State; one whot was educated by, worked in and understands our state university system. It’s time to elect a state senator who will work full-time to fix our state’s problems; one who has been a long-time union member and knows the needs of our workforce. It’s that time and I am that person. I want to work for you and your family as your state senator. I know what it takes to work with people and businesses to put New York back on top.

It’s time to say goodbye to Senator Breslin and his 12 years in office watching time go by while New York approaches financial ruin. It’s time to say no more to Senator Breslin turning a blind eye to his fellow lawyers taking advantage of the state pension fund. It’s time to say no more to Senator Breslin working for a law firm that specializes in creating union free work places. It’s time to say no more to Senator Breslin voting on issues that involve both of his brothers, yet affect all of our families. It is time to say No More, Senator Breslin.

There are those who would have us believe that this cannot be done. I believe that they are the people who have a vested interest in maintaining the status quo. We can no longer let them stand in the way of our state’s progress. Our communities are fortunate to have great people and I am confident that together, we can fix New York.

I am a firm believer that global action starts locally. I believe that we have to demand more of our legislators and of ourselves. I am asking each and every one you to join me. I want you to help identify problems. Tell me your ideas and solutions. Engage in your community like never before. I am asking you to Demand More Albany.

Please use our website to share your views and we ask that you get the word out to your friends and neighbors. We don’t have much time left but we can do this. We truly appreciate your support and welcome you to the team. I will see you soon.
Best always, Charlie Voelker


Charlie Voelker Biography

Charles Patrick Voelker was born April 7, 1964. Raised in Garden City, New York, Charlie was the youngest of Robert and Claire Voelker’ s six children. The late Robert Voelker owned and operated a real estate business for more than 25 years and was a World War II veteran, serving in the U. S. Marine Corps in the Pacific theater until 1945. Claire Voelker, in addition to raising the children, was an elementary school teacher for 19 years. Together, Robert and Claire instilled in their children the value of hard work and sacrifice.

Charlie attended the University at Albany and graduated in 1987 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Rhetoric and Communications.

After graduation, he joined Capital Cablevision as a commercial engineer. Charlie worked in a variety of capacities for the cable company that would later become Time Warner Cable. In his decade long tenure, Charlie wrote and produced television commercials; worked as on-air talent in news and promotional segments; voiced television and radio commercials and sold cable advertising.

In 1995, Charlie began working as the radio color commentator for the College of Saint Rose’s men’s basketball team.

The following year he moved over to his alma mater, UAlbany, to partner with Rodger Wyland of WNYT TV. Charlie and Rodger were the voices of Great Dane Football and Basketball from 1996 – 2002.

In 1997, Charlie left Time Warner Cable to become the Vice President and General Manager of the Albany-Colonie Diamond Dogs minor league baseball team. Under his leadership, from 1997 to 2001, the franchise attendance skyrocketed from 56,000 in 1996 to over 100,000 in 2001. In addition, the Diamond Dogs made the playoffs every year and won the Northern League Championship in 1999. In both 2000 and 2001, Charlie was awarded the “Northern League General Manager of the Year” distinction.

Charlie returned to UAlbany’s athletic department full-time in 2003 to head up the university’s athletic marketing and ticket efforts. Charlie’s focus has included increasing UAlbany’s television exposures; game attendance and revenues; and the development of corporate partnerships. Charlie’s marketing plan was integral to the recent naming of SEFCU arena. He is currently the Associate Athletic Director of External Affairs.

Charlie serves on the Board of Directors for the Northeast Chapter of the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation and is involved in major fundraising efforts for the organization including its annual “Walk for the Cure.” He serves on the organizing committee for the Coaches vs. Cancer Basket Ball for the American Cancer Society and is the America East Conference representative for the National Association of Collegiate Marketing Administrators. In addition, Charlie serves on the External Standards committee for the America East.

Charlie and his wife Kim live in Delmar. Kim is also an alumnus of UAlbany.

Charlie has a seven-year-old son. His greatest enjoyment comes from spending time with his family. Charlie’s hobbies include reading, fishing, golf and watching baseball.

University of Albany Football Program Conducts First Preseason Practice in Full Pads

Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

Head coach Bob Ford and the University at Albany football program ushered in the first day of practice in full pads with the spirited “Oklahoma” drill on Friday, Aug. 8. The Great Danes, who won last year’s Northeast Conference championship, worked out for more than two hours on the campus’ Dutch Quad intramural field.

The Oklahoma drill was designed by legendary college football coach Bud Wilkinson, who guided the Sooners’ program from 1947-63. Wilkinson’s drill has become a tradition at football practices across the country.

UAlbany’s Ford employs a three-on-three system that places the players in a 10-yard box as a running back tries to sprint through open space to a goal line marked by cones. The full-contact session pits offensive linemen against defensive linemen or tight ends against linebackers in a physical football tackling drill that tests competitiveness and toughness.
“It’s exciting for the players,” said Ford, whose team opens its schedule against Massachusetts later this month. “You get to evaluate a lot of people in a relatively safe environment. You learn so much about a person. If you are an offensive lineman, are you able stay on your feet, come off the ball and move on a snap count. A defensive lineman has to move on movement, not on cadence. He teaches him to pursue and come off the block.”

The helmet bashing and pad popping drill provides an early glimpse of which players will have an impact on the 2008 schedule. UAlbany’s roster will have to be ready for plenty of physical football with likes of Delaware and New Hampshire on this year’s schedule. The first week of preseason training camp comes to close on Saturday before the players get a welcomed day off.

UAlbany Wide Receiver Bocanegra A Leader On And Off The Field

Bocanegra nominated for his community work

University of Albany wide receiver Daniel Bocanegra knows what it means to be a leader on and off the field.

His efforts to help the local community have led to his being nominated for the 2008 American Football Coaches Association Good Works Team, which recognizes student-athletes for off-the-field contributions.

"I like to help out and promote the team and keep our name intact," he said. "If I was doing it for the recognition, I'd be doing it for the wrong reasons."

Bocanegra, 22, a senior, was raised by his uncle in Daly City, Calif. He had mentors and other guides throughout childhood and at Junipero Serra High School, which has produced professional athletes Tom Brady and Barry Bonds.

At UAlbany, he became a Big Brother because a friend told him about kids in Albany who could use guidance. He said it's his way of giving back for all he has received.

In addition to being a Big Brother, he has helped raise more than $3,700 for Habitat For Humanity by organizing an annual event through the Student Athlete Advisory Association.

"He is the epitome of the scholar-athlete," UAlbany coach Bob Ford said. "He gives his time freely, and it's not about building a resume with him. He genuinely wants to help people."

In a time when many student-athletes gain headlines for the wrong reasons, Ford said it was refreshing to see one of his players make news for something good.

If being a Big Brother and organizing the Habitat for Humanity effort weren't enough, Bocanegra also oversaw a Christmas fund that donated money to underprivileged Albany-area children. He also is a member of the Purple and Gold Student Ambassadors, where he serves as a link between alumni and current students for school-related events.

Asked what teamwork means to him, Bocanegra, a former starting quarterback at UAlbany, said, "Teamwork means selflessness. Putting others before yourself, taking a step back and always making everything equal. You have to do it for the team before you can do it for yourself."

By NEIL BENJAMIN

University of Albany Women's Soccer Coach Earns WPSL Honors

Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

University at Albany head women's soccer coach Mary-Frances Monroe was recently named the Women's Premier Soccer League East Player of the Year as a member of the New England Mutiny. She was also one of just four midfielders to earn All-WPSL first-team laurels.

Monroe just completed her fourth season as a member of the Mutiny, which is currently one of 51 clubs competing in the WPSL. In 12 matches played, Monroe’s 16 goals and 11 assists for 43 points were league highs. The Mutiny went on to win the WPSL Eastern Conference Championship and earned an appearance in the national semifinals for the fifth time in the past six years.

During the team’s three-game playoff run, Monroe had a hand in five of the club’s six goals. After netting one goal and assisting on two others in a 4-2 win over the Long Island Fury in the WPSL Eastern Conference semifinal, she set up the golden goal to help the Mutiny defeat the SoccerPlus CT Reds, 1-0, to win the WPSL Eastern Conference crown. Monroe also scored the Mutiny’s goal in a 2-1 loss to the Arizona Rush in the semifinal round.

The WPSL is now a 51-team national women's soccer league with five conferences and is considered one of the top women's soccer leagues in the world. Its mission is to provide the highest level of women's soccer while simultaneously providing affordable, quality family entertainment and positive role models for youth. Monroe is beginning her third season as the UAlbany coach.

UAlbany Football Begins Preseason Camp and Defense of Northeast Conference Crown

Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

Albany, N.Y. – The University at Albany football program will be pressed to defend last year’s Northeast Conference championship with a challenging non-league schedule and the addition of Duquesne as a conference member. The work to repeat as NEC champion began on Monday, Aug. 4 when preseason camp kicked off with an afternoon practice on the campus’ Dutch Quad intramural fields.

Head coach Bob Ford has 47 letterwinners, including 11 starters, returning from a squad that finished with an 8-4 record. The Great Danes, who became the fifth team in NEC history to go undefeated in league play, have produced seven or more wins six times as a FCS program.

“The first day is always tough,” offered Ford, who enters his 40th season at the collegiate level with a 225-162-1 record. “You are trying to take 32 freshmen and squeeze them in with 60-plus veterans to make them part of the squad. This slows the process, but everyone in the country goes through it. The vast majority of the team is in great physical condition and the freshman class may be better than I thought.”

The Great Danes will open with four consecutive Colonial Athletic Conference opponents, including national runner-up Delaware and NCAA quarterfinalist Massachusetts in preparation for the NEC schedule. UAlbany opens the conference slate at Duquesne on Saturday, Oct. 4.

“The tempo was good and everyone was real excited,” said UAlbany quarterback Vinny Esposito, who passed for 1,810 yards and 12 touchdowns in his first year as a starter. “I felt more comfortable (than last year), but I can’t rest. With the competition for positions, everyone has to keep improving.”

The Great Danes will practice twice on Tuesday in helmets and shorts and then wear shoulder pads the following day. UAlbany will work out in full gear for the first time on Friday, Aug. 9.

University of Albany Professor John Delano's Research At NASA

Professor John Delano, Department of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences, is among the leading scientists in the country, researching the origins of life and the composition of planets both at the University of Albany and with NASA.

Distinguished Teaching Professor John Delano has been a stargazer since he was nine years old, when he saved up his weekly allowance to buy his first telescope. Today, Delano is among the leading scientists in the country, researching the origins of life and the composition of planets.

Delano's fascination with the universe was triggered in 1957, when he caught a glimpse of Sputnik, the first artificial satellite launched into outer space. It was one in a series of epiphanies that secured his early interest in space exploration.

But there was another moment that reverberated with Delano, which led him to studying moon rocks and other celestial phenomena.

"It all goes back to President Kennedy's decision to send Americans to the moon," Delano said of his decision to study geochemistry. "I thought, 'Holy mackerel, we're going to bring samples back from the moon?'"

After receiving his Ph.D. in geochemistry from SUNY Stony Brook in 1977, Delano began research in astrobiology with NASA, which he continues today with colleagues from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute.

In my opinion, being a professor not only involves transferring information and knowledge, but attempting to inspire the next generation.
Distinguished Teaching Professor John Delano"We're trying to understand the conditions that led to life on Earth and determine if they are strange or likely to occur on other planets in the universe," said Delano, professor in UAlbany's Department of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences. "We can extract memory from rocks and crystals that tell us about the nature of the earth's environment billions of years ago. It almost seems like magic."
Part of Delano's early research involved studying samples from the 1971 Apollo 15 crash, a poignant moment in his career. And, although studying the origins of life and the basic questions of the universe continues to fascinate him, his passion lies in teaching -- particularly trying to inspire the next generation.

"When I go into class I’m enthusiastic; I’m jumping around like a lunatic," Delano said. "I try to make it fun as well as informative. Those are the ingredients for inspiration."

That may be why, after 25 years teaching at UAlbany, Delano admits that he still gets nervous before every class.

"I have to get nervous. If I'm not nervous, I'm not on my game," said Delano.

Nerves aside, Delano always introduces each topic to his students by explaining how it fits into the big picture, addressing the basic human question, Why are we learning this?

Over the years, Delano has been recognized for his passion by the State University of New York Chancellor's Award for Excellence in Teaching and the University at Albany President's Award for Excellence in Teaching, although he measures his success in a somewhat different way.

"I keep a folder of what I call 'unsolicited compliments' from students," Delano said. "I’ve been gratified by how thick that folder has become."

University of Albany Football Schedule

Sat, Aug 30 Massachusetts at Amherst, Mass. 6:00 p.m.

Sat, Sep 13 Hofstra at Hempstead, N.Y. 7:00 p.m.

Sat, Sep 20 New Hampshire at Durham, N.H. 12:00 p.m.

Sat, Sep 27 Delaware at Newark, Del. 6:00 p.m.

Sat, Oct 04 Duquesne * at Pittsburgh, Pa. 1:00 p.m.

Sat, Oct 11 Central Connecticut State * Albany, N.Y. 4:00 p.m.

Sat, Oct 18 Sacred Heart * at Fairfield, Conn. 1:00 p.m.

Sat, Oct 25 St. Francis, Pa. * Albany, N.Y. 4:00 p.m.

Sat, Nov 01 Monmouth * Albany, N.Y. 1:00 p.m.

Sat, Nov 08 Robert Morris * at Moon Township, Pa. 1:00 p.m.

Sat, Nov 15 Wagner * Albany, N.Y. 1:00 p.m.

UAlbany's Ammann Achievements Recognized

What’s this? It was a text message unlike any Steve Ammann had ever received.
"Congrats on being scholar-athlete of the year, you big nerd," it read.

It was sent from a teammate late last month to the Putnam Valley native and lacrosse standout, a recent graduate of the University at Albany.

"It was a complete surprise," the former Great Danes midfielder said. "I thought the text was a joke, but I am proud of the team and proud to represent the university like that."

Ammann's 3.83 grade-point average as a finance and marketing major was certainly no joke.

Success both on and off the field led to his being named America East Conference Scholar-Athlete of the Year in men's lacrosse. Unlike Ammann, Albany coach Scott Marr was not surprised by such recognition.

"He is a complete person," Marr said. "From being a student to a tremendous athlete, he is just a good person, tutoring guys on the team. I am really sad to see him go."

Marr, a Yorktown native, is bidding farewell to not only Steve but also his twin brother, Mike Ammann.

The duo helped one another excel, as the Ammanns shared everything from the lacrosse field to excellence in the classroom to job hunting in New York City.

"They are best friends," Marr said. "It was neat, that connection between twins. They motivated each other and were competitive with one another, but always supportive."

Steve Ammann's achievements on the field mirrored his classroom success.

A captain his senior season, Ammann helped propel the Great Danes to the conference title game, where a one-goal loss to UMBC denied them an NCAA tournament appearance. His postseason honors included being named to the ESPN The Magazine District I All-Academic at-large team. As a second-team all-conference midfielder, Ammann scored 15 goals and 12 assists his final season.

His junior year, Albany was ranked second in the nation for a six-week span on its way to the second NCAA berth of Ammann's career.

"He had a tremendous effect on our team," Marr said. "He helped make us a top team in the nation."

Ammann's competitive nature in athletics carried over to his academics. His favorite class was financial management, which included its fair share of debates.

"I am competitive on and off the field, so it was not difficult for me to set high goals in the classroom," Ammann said.

The son of two teachers, Ammann is entering the world of finance this month. He has accepted a job at Nomura Securities in Manhattan.

However, don't be surprised if his hard work and competitiveness lead him back to the lacrosse field in the near future.

"I entered the professional lacrosse draft, but it didn't work out this year," Ammann said. "But I will keep working towards that. The possibility is still there."

By Rachel Stern

The University's World of Opportunities: Student Tackles N.Y. Giants Training Camp

University of Albany student Brittany Scott, who is earning a graduate degree in psychology, is working at the New York Giants summer training camp on the UAlbany campus.

Being around professional athletes is nothing new to UAlbany ’08 grad Brittany Scott. Her father played goalkeeper for the NHL's New York Rangers and Los Angeles Kings and Brittany herself, former team captain of the University at Albany-SUNY women's lacrosse team, is a current member of the Canadian National Team. Still, she is awed by the opportunity to be up close with another set of professional athletes – the Super Bowl XLII champion New York Giants.

Scott is a staff member of the New York Giants preseason training camp. But having her favorite NFL team on her home campus is more than just a bragging right for the Baldwinsville, N.Y. native. For Scott and 31 other students, it is a unique opportunity to work next to the likes of Super Bowl MVP quarterback Eli Manning and wide receiver Plaxico Burress on a daily basis. It's anything but the average summer job.

Two weeks before camp, which runs July 17 through August 17, students turn the campus into a professional training ground. This involves a lot of sweat and grunt work. The University's SEFCU Arena is transformed into the Giants locker room. The whole surface is covered with 25 rolls of protective matting, each 1,500-2,000 pounds apiece. Students help unload 12-14 tractor trailer trucks, each about 50 feet long and brimming with Giants equipment.

After the players arrive, students help with security and crowd control as the Giants practice. Escorting the players to and from practice always means a chance at some small talk, Scott said.

"There aren't too many schools in the country that offer this," said Kevin Galuski, assistant director of athletics and director of operations for the camp. "It's a great opportunity for young student athletes and young students in general to be able to work with a pro sports team. It’s something they can take with them in the future."

Scott, now a graduate psychology student at UAlbany, said she enjoys the fun atmosphere of her job and its convenient location on the UAlbany campus, which is why she’s making this her second year working at the camp. "I have learned how much is put into professional teams and how many people it takes to get everything done," Scott said. "It's interesting to see a sports team run as if it's a company."

On average, the camp -- in its 13th consecutive year on the UAlbany campus -- has attracted more than 30,000 spectators each year. Students may have their work cut out for them this summer though, as a record crowd is expected to see the defending Super Bowl champions.

UAlbany Football Begins 2008 Preseason on Monday, Aug. 4 with Afternoon Practice

Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

The University of Albany football program begins preseason camp on Monday, August 4 with an afternoon practice, from 2:30-4:30 p.m. The Great Danes will conduct their preseason practices on the UAlbany campus’ Dutch Quad intramural fields. UAlbany opens its 36th varsity campaign against Massachusetts on Saturday, August 30 in Amherst, Mass. Kickoff is 6:00 p.m. ET.

2008 SEASON PREVIEW

UAlbany won its third Northeast Conference title in 2007 by becoming the fifth team in league history to go undefeated in conference play. The Great Danes will have to work even harder to repeat with a challenging non-league schedule and the addition of Duquesne as an NEC member.

"We have greater team depth and a stable of quality athletes," offers head coach Bob Ford, who enters his 40th season at the collegiate level with a 225-162-1 career record. "But at the same time, we have more question marks than we've had in recent times heading into fall camp."

Ford has 47 letterwinners, including 11 starters, returning from a squad that finished with an 8-4 record. The Great Danes have produced seven or more wins six times as a FCS program.

"We will be a decent football team on defense," Ford says. "The linebackers and defensive backs are solid. (Dave) Nicomini's injury hurts us greatly. We lost some excellent players on the defensive line."

Ford continues, "Our running attack is pretty good behind a scrappy group of offensive linemen. We need more productivity in the passing game and consistent play from our receivers."

The Great Danes will open with four consecutive Colonial Athletic Conference opponents, including national runner-up Delaware and NCAA quarterfinalist Massachusetts in preparation for the NEC schedule.

OFFENSE: Tailback David McCarty leads an offensive unit that ranked 20th nationally in rushing at nearly 209 yards per game. McCarty, who was named to the Sports Network All-America squad, ran for 1,503 yards, the third-highest single-season total in team history. McCarty grinded out eight 100-yard efforts, including a career-best 247 yards in a championship-clinching win against Central Connecticut State. Justin Gannon and Colin Simmons, a pair of juniors, rushed for 250-plus yards last season.

"David (McCarty) has great balance and a competitive spirit," Ford states. "He probably has added nearly 20 pounds and has increased strength."

Quarterback Vinny Esposito, like McCarty, made the most of his first season as a starter. He recorded the second-best single-season passing total in school annals with 1,810 yards. He threw 12 scoring passes and accounted for 1,946 yards in total offense. Frank Blasinsky, who saw time behind center the last two years, is second on the depth chart.

"Vinny is an accurate thrower who puts the ball in the right position," Ford explains. "He's relaxed and confident and his teammates believe in him."

The Great Danes can build around two all-conference offensive linemen, but will have to replace both guards. Raphael Nguti (6-6, 330) earned first-team All-NEC recognition at right tackle. Nguti's tremendous size will provide him an opportunity to continue his career following graduation. Center Kevin Richards (6-2, 270) was named to the all-league second team. Nik Schultz (6-2, 285) should start at left guard after playing in 25 games as a collegian, while Jon Leible (6-5, 305) will work at right guard.

UAlbany's starting receivers were seniors, but the rotation allowed for several players to be involved. Daniel Bocanegra, a converted quarterback, hauled in 26 passes for 316 yards. Bocanegra has also been the team's primary punt returner. Tim Bush had 17 receptions for 225 yards and two TDs. In addition, the Great Danes have two improving tight ends in Dan Archer (7 catches) and Marcus Miles (10 catches) who have the ability to both block and become factors in the passing attack.

DEFENSE: The Great Danes featured a talented senior class last year on the defensive line. The unit helped the defense rank 17th among the NCAA scoring leaders. In fact, all three starters were members of the all-conference first or second teams.

The good news centers around defensive tackle Tom Pandolf (6-0, 260), a first-team All-NEC standout. Pandolf had his most productive campaign with 37 tackles and 3.0 sacks. Sophomore Trevor Anderson (6-2, 265) also emerged as the season progressed and finished with 28 tackles, including seven for a loss.

"Tom (Pandolf) has good quickness combined with an intuitive sense for the game," Ford states. "He has the ability to stay on his feet and understands his role."

Mike Kelly (6-2, 245) and Tony Sparano (5-11, 253), who had 10 tackles apiece, are the projected starters at the defensive end positions. Eddie Delaney (6-5, 210) showed promise as a scout team member.

At inside linebacker, UAlbany's all-time tackles leader Colin Disch is now a professional in Germany. Justin Brancaccio (6-0, 220) moved into the starting lineup and tied for second on the team with 63 tackles, including 6.5 for losses, last season. "Justin has been a bright light," Ford offers. "He is big, strong and fast, and has continued to mature into the position."

Mark Peretore, a fifth-year senior, has also been a starter during his career. He has made 45-plus tackles in each of the last two seasons. Chris Simpson (14 tackles) will also see playing time in his junior year.

Emerson Kinsey (6-1, 215) worked at one of the outside linebacker spots, where he totaled 29 tackles, 3.5 sacks and two fumble recoveries. He has the skills to become an all-conference performer. Dave Nicomini (6-3, 230) can float between the linebacker and safety positions. He was second on the squad with 63 tackles last season. Nicomini's status will be determined later following knee surgery. Rich Duff (22 tackles) and Raymond Dorcely will be ready pending his availability.

UAlbany's secondary returns intact. Dave Casale had 56 tackles and two interceptions in his first year at free safety. Cornerbacks L.B. McCloskey (38 tackles, 3 INTs) and Jean Juste (34 tackles, 4 PBUs) were sound in their expanded roles. Dave West and cornerback Ross Bertrand were greatly improved. West, a second-team All-NEC safety, had 60 tackles, five pass deflections and two interceptions. Bertrand totaled 31 tackles and three PBUs as a true freshman.

KICKING GAME: Punter Chris Lynch set the program's single-season record by averaging 40.5 yards last year. Lynch, who handled placements as freshman, and Herb Glass are candidates for the place-kicking duties.

Merrick Thomson Nets A Hat Trick, Staying In first place on the MLL Top Scorer’s list

PISCATAWAY - Last Saturday, it was the offense which carried the Pride to victory against Washington.

Thursday night, in the back end of a home-and-home with the Bayhawks, it was all about the defense, though not for lack of trying on the offensive end.

While the Pride put up 16 goals, despite pulling on the reigns with eight minutes remaining, the Rob Scherr and Ryan McClay-led defense stole the show, holding the Bayhawks to eight goals, with help from Danny Brennan’s performance at the face-off X.

After missing time with a broken hand, suffered in the back-end of consecutive MLL Goalie of the Week efforts, and struggling in his first games back in uniform, Scherr was nothing short of dominant in goal, stopping 24 of 30 shots in 53:16 of gameplay to earn Bud Light MVP Honors.

“There are a lot of things you have to worry about,” Jacobs said, “but Robby I don’t have to worry as much.

“He’s been great all year.”

“The last two games I didn’t feel like I was playing my best,” Scherr said, “so it was nice to come out and play like that. It’s a good feeling.”

While he is likely to earn his third Goalie of the Week Award, the MVP Honors were a first for Scherr.

“Obviously getting the win is the first priority,” Scherr said, “but it’s a nice honor. It’s a good feeling to get recognized.”

The Pride’s defensive effort was powered by the oft-underappreciated McClay. As always, in addition to leading the team, McClay was a groundball machine, scooping up 13 loose balls.

“He’s the kind of guy where if you challenge Ryan to get ground balls, he’s going to do it,” Jacobs said. “Whatever I tell him to do, he’s going to do it.”

“That’s what I focus on,” McClay said. “I was a little upset last-week with my off-the-ball defense, tonight was more about knowing to slide or not slide and not getting caught in no-man’s land, and when you’re doing that right the ground balls tend to come.”

In the victory last week, in which Buggs Combs scored eight goals, Jacobs was critical of the team defensive. His opinion of the team’s slides was far different following the win Thursday.

“Last game we played on our heels,” Jacobs said, “this week weplayed them much farther out. Rather then letting them dictate to us, we dictated to them.”

“Our communication was a lot better,” McClay said. “There were a couple of situations late there that were pretty impressive.”

“I can’t say enough about [the defense],” Scherr said. “Those guys play hard, they play tough, and you can’t ask for anything more than that.”

After helping lead the Pride’s runs in a relatively-even face-off game last week, Brennan showed why he was the NCAA’s top face-off specialist in 2008, dominating for 20 wins on 28 face-offs.

“It’s phenomenal,” Jacobs said. “It makes me look like an idiot for not putting him in there sooner.

“You have to take everything within perspective though. Washington is not a great face-off team.”

On the offensive side of the ball, Scott Urick had another strong game for the Pride, scoring four goals and adding an assist, while Merrick Thomson and Chris Unterstein each had hat tricks.

Derek Cherney opened the scoring in the game’s first minute for the Bayhawks, but the Pride responded with three of their own. Dan Chemotti knotted the score at 2:06, and Tim Treubig put the Pride ahead at 4:30. Taking a page out of last week, the Pride took the resulting draw down for a Scott Urick goal and a 3-1 lead, before Matt Ward ended the run.

The Pride responded with another 3-1 run to end the quarter. Stephen Peyser was first to tally, then Thomson added a spectacular goal in traffic. Billy Glading answered right back for the Bayhawks, but Urick scooped up a loose ball among a storm of flags to put the Pride ahead 6-3 through one quarter.

The Pride added the first four of the second frame to extend their run to five-unanswered points, with Urick leading the way with a goal, to complete his hat trick, and an assist alongside goals by Chemotti, Matt Danowski and Greg Peyser to stretch the lead to 10-3 before Jarett Park ended the tear at 6:49.

Danowski’s defensive efforts helped extend the Pride lead as he intercepted a Bayhwaks clear attempt while Washington was out of position. While substitute netminder Chris Collins got back in time to stop Danowski’s shot, the rebound fell to Unterstein who buried it from the doorstep.

Kyle Dixon ended the first-half scoring with a laser from inside the two-point arc to make the score 11-5 at the break.

Unterstein added his second consecutive Pride tally at 4:42, and Urick his fourth of the game at 13:49. Unterstein completed his hat trick just :30 later. McClay ended the defense-driven quarter with a hard body check on the third’s final shot.

“Unlike a lot of people, I’m always about getting balls off the ground not playing the guy,” McClay said. “It felt pretty good tonight.”

Thomson earned his hat trick, and moved back into first place on the MLL Top Scorer’s list for 2008, by scoring the first two goals of the final quarter to put the Pride ahead 16-5, and in doing so enabled the Pride to issue the pull-back order, as they elected to simply run the shot clock on each possession rather than attempt to stretch their lead.

With the win, the Pride maintain their slim playoff hopes, needing losses by Phildelphia and Los Angeles this week, as well as likely needing a Long Island defeat, the Pride are left with a choice to relax for the weekend or scoreboard watch.

“I’ll do both,” Jacobs said. “I’ll relax while I watch the scoreboards.”

By Bobby Ingram