University of Albany FCS Football Center Andy Sparano Leads Offense As He Snaps Football at Line of Scrimmage - UAlbany Sports 2010

Albany, N.Y. - The tailback pounds off left tackle on a touchdown run or the quarterback connects with a receiver on a long scoring pass. No matter how the play developed, it all started with the center snapping the ball.

Andy Sparano is the player who triggers the action for the University at Albany football team. The senior started at right guard on the offensive line last season. But this spring he has moved to center, a position that has more responsibility that any loyal Great Dane fan may realize.

"I have to be in tune with the entire line and make all the calls," said Sparano, a 5-foot-11, 270-pounder who has played before as a collegian in the middle of UAlbany's offensive front. "I have to identify the linebacker, whether it's run or pass, and if we are checking the play, do so in a timely fashion."

Adds UAlbany offensive line coach Mike Morita, "He's the leader. He scans the defensive front, sets the protection and who were are working to. Andy is perfect for the role. He is confident with football savvy, and is tough physically and mentally."

Besides weight training and conditioning, Sparano's day usually starts the same way each offensive play begins. He rotates with each of UAlbany's quarterbacks for at least ten minutes on the center exchange and ball security.

"The outcome is in our (line) hands," he states. "If we can run for four or five yards at a clip, that fires up or energizes the rest of the team. It's an offense that is built off toughness, the power run game. I am fortunate that I have been surrounded by guys who know what it takes to win and work hard every day."

Sparano's approach to football has strong family roots. His father, Tony, has worked on the professional and college levels and is preparing for his third season as the Miami Dolphins' head coach. His older brother, Tony, was a starting defensive end on last year's UAlbany squad and is currently a defensive line assistant with the United Football League's Hartford Colonials.

"My father showed me how to have a work ethic and about being smart, eliminating mistakes like offsides or personal fouls," Sparano said. "My brother helped me with my decision to come here. He explained the mentality of the team and what to expect."

Now Andy Sparano must help his guards and tackles stay on the same page as they work to control the line of scrimmage. It all begins before he even snaps the ball.

Paw Prints: The Great Danes will hold their seventh spring practice on Friday, April 16 ... UAlbany is scheduled to play an intrasquad scrimmage game on Saturday, April 24 at 3:00 p.m., as part of the UAlbany Alumni Association's Annual Spring Stomp ... the Spring Stomp schedule includes baseball's doubleheader with Stony Brook at 12 noon and men's lacrosse's matchup with Stony Brook at 7:00 p.m. ... former UAlbany center Oji Fagan (1996-99) has been named running backs coach for the United Football League's Hartford Colonials.


Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

University of Albany's John Fallon Field Set to Host Major League Lacrosse Game on Saturday, June 12 - UAlbany Sports 2010

Boston, Mass. -- Major League Lacrosse, the premier professional outdoor lacrosse league, announced today that the Chicago Machine will face the Long Island Lizards at John Fallon Field on the campus of the University at Albany on Saturday, June 12, according to Commissioner David Gross. The game between the Machine and the Lizards will take place at 7 p.m.

"Major League Lacrosse is excited about coming to Albany this June," Gross said. "The region is home to many great MLL players and we think the area-fans will be delighted in witnessing the great play of favorite sons Kevin and Mike Leveille."
The Machine and the Lizards met twice last season with Long Island winning both meetings. After a 15-14 victory at Shuart Stadium on June 20, the Lizards posted a 13-11 decision in the regular season finale on August 8 at Soldier Field.

"We are pleased to be hosting Major League Lacrosse on the University at Albany campus," added UAlbany Vice President and Director of Athletics Lee McElroy. "The growth of UAlbany's Division I lacrosse program under coach Scott Marr, the number of Great Danes who have gone on to play professionally, and the caliber of the high school and youth programs in the area will make this an anticipated event for Capital Region fans."

Home to the University at Albany men's and women's lacrosse teams, John Fallon Field was completed in the Fall of 2005. The facility features a Sportexe Momentum Turf surface and is named in honor of former Albany student-athlete John Fallon, who made a significant contribution to fund the project.

Tickets for the June 12 game between the Machine and Lizards are available by contacting the MLL office at (866) MLL-TIXX or by visiting majorleaguelacrosse.com/buytickets/.

The 2010 Major League Lacrosse season begins on Saturday, May 15. The Machine will play their entire 2010 regular season as a travel team with games announced for North Carolina on May 16, Pittsburgh on May 30, Virginia Beach on June 20, Rochester on June 25, and Columbus on July 10. Visit www.chicagomachine.com for more information.

About Major League Lacrosse
Major League Lacrosse (MLL), the premier professional outdoor lacrosse league, was founded by Jake Steinfeld and commenced play in June of 2001. The MLL's six teams will begin the league's 10th season of action on May 15, 2010. The 2010 MLL All-Star Game will take place on Thursday, July 8 in Boston, Mass. at Harvard Stadium. The season will culminate with the New Balance MLL Championship Weekend, which will take place on Saturday and Sunday, August 21 and 22 at Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium in Annapolis, Md.

Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

University of Albany's Jack Reynolds Keys Third-Quarter Run in Men's Lacrosse's 9-4 America East Conference Win - UAlbany Sports 2010

Albany, N.Y. - Sophomore Jack Reynolds had two goals and one assist, all in the third quarter, as UAlbany posted a 9-4 victory over Vermont in America East Conference play on Sunday, April 11 at John Fallon Field. The Great Danes rebounded from a road loss the previous day to nationally-ranked Johns Hopkins.

UAlbany (3-8, AE 2-0) snapped a 3-3 deadlock with a four-goal third period. Reynolds drove from the point and sent a low shot into the net to put his team ahead with 11:11 remaining. Matt Johnson tallied the second of his two goals four minutes later by eluding a defender with an inside roll from the left. Reynolds, who registered a career-best scoring total, had a hand in his team scoring twice in a 36-second span. He dodged from the left point and found Dave Brock at the top of the crease. The midfielder then sent a 16-yard bullet into the cage after goalkeeper John Carroll hit him on the move with a clearing pass.

The Great Danes built their advantage to 9-3 early in the fourth quarter by scoring a pair 42 seconds apart. Luke Cometti came around a pick from the right of the cage to connect on his third goal of the season. Brock added an extra-man goal with a shot inside the post after collected a left-to-right crossing pass from freshman Will Fuller.

"We woke up in the second half and made the plays we were supposed to make," said Johnson, a junior who filled in for All-America attackman Brian Caufield after he left the game with an injury in the second quarter. "I was prepared for this moment. I work every day in practice with the attack and behind the cage. (John) Carroll made some saves to keep us in it during the first half."

After playing a scoreless first quarter, the teams went back and forth in a second stanza that resulted in a halftime tie. The Great Danes reversed a 1-0 deficit with a pair of goals by Johnson and Rocky Bonitatibus. Vermont (2-9, AE 1-1) drew even at two apiece when Derek Lichtfuss came up with a loose ball at midfield and hit a streaking A.J. Masson to complete a fastbreak goal. After Bonitatibus put his team ahead on a high shot from the right point, the Catamounts got the equalizer with 37 seconds left before the break as Cal Case drilled a 10-yard blast from the middle of the zone.

"We got back at midnight from a tough game yesterday and are legs weren't under us," UAlbany coach Scott Marr said. "We were aggressive in that third quarter and got some ground balls. Matt Johnson is a hustler and you know you are going to be okay when you have guys like that on your team."

Sophomore goalkeeper David Barton stopped 15 shots for the Catamounts, who opened their conference schedule with a win over Binghamton one week ago. UAlbany's Carroll made 10 of his 11 saves in the first half. Brock scored a pair, including his 23rd of the season, for the Great Danes, who were playing on back-to-back days during the regular season for the first time since the 2000 campaign.

"We needed to step up in the second half," Reynolds offered. "It was harder than normal (to be playing on consecutive days. The defense did a great job."

Paw Prints: UAlbany has won 13 of 16 meetings with Vermont since the series began in 1981 ... the Great Danes are 34-10 all-time in America East Conference regular-season play ... Jack Reynolds posted career-highs in goals (2) and points (3) ... Rocky Bonitatibus scored a career-best two goals ... Matt Johnson's two goals matched his best effort as he scored twice against Siena earlier this season ... John Carroll has made double-figures saves in 10 of 11 starts between the pipes this spring.

Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

University of Albany's Back-to-Back Homers by Connors and Mason Spark Rally in Softball's 4-3 Win Over Boston U. - UAlbany Sports 2010

Albany, N.Y. - Michelle Connors and Gina Mason hit back-to-back home runs to spark a comeback and Jessica Bergin delivered what would stand as the game-winning hit later in the same inning as UAlbany rallied to earn a 4-3 victory over Boston University in America East Conference softball action on Sunday, April 11 at Albany Field. The Great Danes trailed 3-1 and had just one hit through the first three innings before the offensive outburst in the fourth put them over the top.

Boston U. (20-13, AE 5-1) scattered three hits in the top of the first to jump out to a 2-0 lead. Rachel Hebert led off with a triple down the right field line and came home two plays later on a bloop single to center by April Setterlund. After stealing second, Setterlund scored the Terriers' second run on a single by Rachel Moeller.

UAlbany cut the lead in half in the bottom of the third. Kylie Apostolina drew a one-out walk and was pushed up to second on a sacrifice bunt by Nicole Kothe. Andrianna Walraven followed with a single to right field, allowing the freshman third baseman to score. Walraven stole second to move into scoring position, but the next batter was caught looking to end the inning.

After the Terriers took advantage of two Great Dane errors in the infield to regain their two-run lead in the top of the fourth, the hosts rallied to score three times in the bottom of the inning to take a 4-3 lead. Connors and Mason hit back-to-back home runs down the left field line to tie the score at three. Kat Smith then blasted a double off the top of the wall to dead center which fell just inches shy of gracing the fence, chasing starting pitcher Cassidi Hardy out of the game.

Facing Whitney Tuthill, who hurled a one-hitter in the nightcap of yesterday's doubleheader, Bergin singled in pinch runner Stephanie Talerico for what would later stand as the game-winning hit. It was also the Great Danes' fourth straight hit in the inning. After the first out was recorded, Apostolina was issued another walk to place runners on first and second with only one out. However, the next hitter was called out on batter's interference while Bergin and Apostolina were attempting a double steal. Tuthill got out of the inning on Hebert's basket catch at first base.

After stranding two runners in the fifth, the Terriers threatened to score once again in the top of the seventh. With two outs and runners on first and second after Setterlund was intentionally walked, Marissa Powell forced Caitlin Rentler to fly out to Diane MacDowell in center to end the game.

UAlbany's Powell went the distance and improved her record to 4-7 as the winning pitcher. She allowed five hits, three runs, including two earned, and issued four walks while striking out two. In addition, the senior did not allow an earned run over the last six innings. BU's Hardy suffered her first loss in conference play and dropped to 12-5 overall. After a stellar start, the senior finished the day yieliding four hits and four runs in three innings. She struck out six and issued only one walk. Tuthill relieved Hardy for the last three innings. The freshman, who did not surrender any runs, allowed two hits and registered one strikeout and one walk.

UAlbany (13-14, AE 5-4), which played all five of its games this week against teams that reached the 2009 NCAA Tournament, will travel to Manhattan on Tuesday, April 13 for a non-conference doubleheader beginning at 3 p.m.
Paw Prints: Michelle Connors, who went 2-for-3 in the game, hit her 32nd career double in the fifth inning to move into a tie for second on the all-time list with Maegan Larsen ... She needs seven more to eclipse the record of 38, which is currently held by Kelly Ogden ... The senior, who went yard for the 21st time of her career in the fourth, also ranks third on the program's all-time list for home runs.

Boston U. 200 100 0 3 5 0
UAlbany 001 300 x 4 6 3

Boston U.: Cassidi Hardy, Whitney Tuthill (4) and Caitlin Rentler.
UAlbany: Marissa Powell and Kat Smith.


Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

University of Albany FCS Footballl Defensive End Mike Kelly Wears Battle Scar as Football Ends First Week of Spring Practice - UAlbany Sports 2010

Albany, N.Y. - Defensive end Mike Kelly and his teammates engaged in their initial battle on the line of scrimmage, as the UAlbany football program finished up its first week of spring practice on Saturday, April 10 at University Field.

"We were happy to get out there and hit for the first time," said Kelly, whose team scrimmaged during the second hour of their fourth spring practice. "The defensive and offensive lines set the tone. It begins and ends there."

Kelly is pleased to be banging around on the field after developing compartment syndrome in his lower leg and having surgery. The injury, a compression of nerves and blood vessels that can lead to muscle damage, forced him off the field for three games last year. The senior from West Long Branch, N.J., had never missed a game since seventh grade.

"I have the perspective that this (football) could be taken away from you," explained Kelly, who had 26 tackles last season and is a long snapper on special teams. "I have always been a weight room and workout guy, but I have been focusing on doing the little things. I have a huge scar (on my leg) to remind me."

As a sophomore, Kelly led the Great Danes with 5.5 sacks and totaled 52 tackles. He put an exclamation point on a championship season by getting to the quarterback twice in his team's 2008 Gridiron Classic win over Jacksonville. But last year's leg injury slowed down his productivity.

At 6-foot-2 and 235 pounds, Kelly is a key figure on a veteran defensive line. Along with first-team all-conference defensive tackle Trevor Anderson and veterans Eddie Delaney and Zach Gallo, the group is expected to cause havoc in the Northeast Conference.

"We are just trying to improve (during the spring)," Kelly stated. "Hopefully we are teaching the younger guys. Just listen, focus, and learn, and take in everything."

Words of wisdom from a player who understands a football career can end at any time. He wears a battle scar to prove it.

Paw Prints: UAlbany conducted its fourth spring practice on Saturday (April 10) ... the Great Danes worked on special teams, both punt and place-kicking, went through a seven-on-seven session, and ran 48 plays during the actual scrimmage period ... quarterbacks Dan Di Lella and Buddy Leathley each had 12 passing attempts during the scrimmage ... freshman tailback Tramaine Wilson rushed for 22 yards on five carries ... cornerback Ross Bertrand and inside linebacker Chris Wilk each recorded an interception ... defensive end Eddie Delaney and defensive tackle Zach Gallo each made three tackles ... freshman safety Justinian Mason totaled three tackles and two pass break-ups ... fullback Ben Carl caught two passes for 15 yards.


Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

University of Albany Men's Outdoor Track & Field Wins UMass Nine-Way Meet; Women Place Second - UAlbany Sports 2010

Amherst, Mass. -Celine Cauderlier broke the school record in the women's pole vault and Jonathan Santana and Sherez Mohamed won the men's and women's 400-meter dash, respectively, and anchored a first-place relay squad to lead the UAlbany outdoor track and field teams at the UMass Nine-Way Meet on Saturday, April 10. The Great Dane men won the team title convincingly, while the women placed second at the scoring meet being held at the UMass Track & Field Complex.

UAlbany's men's team accumulated 201.50 points, which was 66 points better than second-place Massachusetts to easily win the crown among 11 scoring teams. The Great Danes had two IC4A qualifying performances, six event champions and a winning relay at the competition. The UAlbany women accumulated 153 points to finish in the runner-up spot and only 14.5 points behind Massachusetts in the field of nine schools. The squad had three individuals qualify for the ECAC meet, four win an event title, one set a school and meet record as well as a winning relay team.

Cauderlier, who broke the program standard in the women's pole vault twice last year, cleared 12-feet, 1.50-inches to win the event and eclipse the school record once again. The junior beat out her previous mark of 11-9.75, which she recorded at the 2009 France National Championships. Other notable performances in the women's jumps were made by freshmen Ashley Mahlmeister and Karley Giles. Mahlmeister won the long jump by leaping 18-0.25, while Giles was second in the high jump by clearing 5-3.

Catie Coxon and Kadine Johnson posted top-three performances to lead the women's throwing corps. Coxon qualified for the ECAC Championship for the first time in her career by placing third in the discus with a mark of 140-2, while Johnson was second in the hammer for her toss that sailed 162-1. Her throw was four inches shy of matching her own school record.

Paced by Wilfredo de Jesus Elias, three members of the men's team posted a top-three finish in a field event. de Jesus Elias won the hammer throw with a toss that traveled 185-1, which qualified him for the IC4A Championship. Tim McGreevy and Freddie Wills placed third in the high jump and pole vault, respectively. McGreevy cleared 6-1.25, while Wills leaped over the bar which stood at 13-9.25.

Santana won the men's 400 in 49.28 seconds before anchoring the 4x400-meter relay to a first-place time of 3:19.66. The freshman, who also placed fourth in the 200 in 22.25, was joined on the relay by Alan Nimblette, Taylor Chaney and Peter Rowell. Jake Rachiele and Germain Smith placed second in 11.04 and third in 11.05, respectively, in the 100 to round out the top finishers in the men's sprints.

Mohamed, who was victorious in the women's 400 by navigating the track in 58.62, anchored the 4x400-meter relay which also consisted of Octavia Clarkson, Alli Rogers and Brittany Eveleth to a first-place time of 3:53.36. Rogers also placed second in the 100 in 12.23, while Jessica Hunter was the runner-up finisher in the 200 by hitting the tape in 26.38 to help pace the women in the sprints.

Led by Garrett Askew and Ebube Abara, the UAlbany men piled up 56 points in the two hurdles events. Askew won the 110-meter high hurdles in 14.85 seconds to qualify for the IC4A meet, while Wills and Mohamed Kanu posted second and third-place marks of 15.15 and 15.30 seconds, respectively. Abara navigated the track in 54.61 to place first in the 400-meter intermediate hurdles. Shane Wagner finished a close second in 54.62. On the women's side, Eveleth won the 400-hurdles in a personal-best time of 1:03.55 and Christen Griffin placed second in the 100-hurdles with an ECAC qualifying time of 14.23 seconds.

Tyler Fogarty and Nick Santos completed the list of Great Danes who placed first in a track event. Fogarty won the men's 800 in 1:53.06, while Nick Santos ran a first-place time of 3:55.66 in the men's 1,500. In addition, Paul Lagno finished second in the 5,000 by crossing the line in 15:19.71.

Both of UAlbany's outdoor track and field programs will trek to Storrs, Conn. to compete at separate meets hosted by the University of Connecticut on Saturday, April 17. The women's team will participate in the UConn Select Invitational in the morning, while the men will match up head-to-head against the Huskies afterwards in the 1st Annual "Dogfight," a dual scoring meet between two of the top programs in the Northeast Region.

Men's Team Standings

1. UAlbany 201.50, 2. Massachusetts 135.50, 3. Yale 101, 4. Williams 87, 5. Boston College 56, 6. Central Connecticut State 54, 7. Amherst 43, 8. Trinity 29, 9. Hartford 27, 10. Holy Cross 26, 11. Fairfield 9.

UAlbany Men's Results

100-Meter Dash: 2. Jake Rachiele 11.04, 3. Germain Smith 11.05, 4. Tristan Akong 11.22, 8. Kadeem Howell 11.40, 15. Brandon Sligh 11.80. 200-Meter Dash: 4. Jonathan Santana 22.25, 5. Alex Petit-Frere 22.38, 10. Freddie Wills 23.04, 11. Tristan Akong 23.11, 12. Jared Nilsson 23.15, 13. Brandon Sligh 23.25, 14. Garrett Askew 23.34, 18. Jordan Pollock 23.58, 21. Sean Cooper 23.74. 400-Meter Dash: 1. Jonathan Santana 49.28, 6. Taylor Chaney 51.33, 26. Valete Graham 55.29. 110-Meter High Hurdles: 1. Garrett Askew 14.85 (IC4A), 2. Freddie Wills 15.15, 3. Mohamed Kanu 15.30, 4. Shane Wagner 15.30, 12. Sean Cooper 16.40, 13. Jared Nilsson 16.41. 400-Meter Intermediate Hurdles: 1. Ebube Abara 54.61, 2. Shane Wagner 54.62, 4. Alan Nimblette 54.95, 5. Peter Rowell 55.14, 10. Mohamed Kanu 58.09. 800-Meter Run: 1. Tyler Fogarty 1:53.06, 14. Sean Halpin 1:58.86, 40. Cory Greczyn 2:04.97. 1,500-Meter Run: 1. Nick Santos 3:55.66, 6. R.J. Sniffen 4:01.19, 9. Ryan Florkiewicz 4:04.53, 22. Ian Ellis 4:09.84, 30. Cory Greczyn 4:12.60, 39. John Moore 4:16.10, 48. Aaron Lozier 4:23.71. 5,000-Meter Run: 2. Paul Lagno 15:19.71. 10,000-Meter Run: 10. David Rothman 33:06.29. 3,000-Meter Steeplechase: 3. Ethan Clary 9:39.11, 4. Craig Weiss 9:48.93, 7. Chris Manico 9:59.96. High Jump: 3. Tim McGreevy 6-1.25, 6. Sean Cooper 5-11.25. Long Jump: 6. Danny Hu 21-2.50, 14. Kurtis Randolph 19-4. Pole Vault: 3. Freddie Wills 13-9.25, 5. Ben Brunjes 12-9.50. Discus Throw: 5. Stephen Hassard 140-3, 9. Will Anger 140-3, 11. Zach Murphy 125-7, 13. Freddie Wills 121-5, 14. Simon Cleary 120-6, 22. Sean Cooper 92-2, 23. Kevin O'Riley 90-7. Hammer Throw: 1. Wilfredo de Jesus Elias 185-1 (IC4A), 5. Will Anger 155-9, 14. Simon Cleary 135-9. Javelin Throw: 8. Mitchel Troise 146-1, 10. Erik Andersen 142-3. Shot Put: 8. Jordan Meikle 41-5.75. 4x100-Meter Relay: 2. Jake Rachiele, Jonathan Santana, Earnest Waters, Tristan Akong 42.96; 5. Germain Smith, Taylor Chaney, Brandon Sligh, Alex Petit-Frere 45.10; 6. Kadeem Howell, Valete Graham, Fred Casimo, Kyle Nadler 45.17. 4x400-Meter Relay: 1. Alan Nimblette, Taylor Chaney, Peter Rowell, Jonathan Santana 3:19.66; 3. Alex Petit-Frere, Jake Rachiele, Ebube Abara, Shane Wagner 3:24.99.

Women's Team Standings

1. Massachusetts 167.50, 2. Albany 153, 3. Boston College 120, 4. Holy Cross 98, 5. Williams 76, 6. Central Connecticut State 54, 7. Amherst 47; 8. Hartford 44.50, 9. Trinity 4.

UAlbany Women's Results

100-Meter Dash: 2. Alli Rogers 12.23, 9. Katie Fargnoli 13.03, 15. Patrice Johnson 13.18. 200-Meter Dash: 2. Jessica Hunter 26.38, 4. Tenica Roberts 26.54, 15. Katie Fargnoli 27.53, 16. Patrice Johnson 27.80, 20. Emily Curry 28.94. 400-Meter Dash: 1. Sherez Mohamed 58.62, 3. Octavia Clarkson 59.76. 100-Meter High Hurdles: 2. Christen Griffin 14.23 (ECAC), 13. Emily Curry 18.25. 400-Meter Intermediate Hurdles: 1. Brittany Eveleth 1:03.55, 4. Christen Griffin 1:05.48, 9. Kendra Adams 1:07.90. 800-Meter Run: 18. Renee Johnson 2:25.16, 25. Emily Finnegan 2:29.09, 32. Jessica Panos 2:32.67. 1,500-Meter Run: 13. Miranda McConnell 4:55.96, 16. Emily Finnegan 4:58.17, 24. Maureen Nweke 5:03.38, 38. Laura Varble 5:17.56, 50. Rachel Wysocki 5:35.70. 5,000-Meter Run: 7. Brianna Service 18:36.81, 17. Melissa Del Rosario 19:28.51. 10,000-Meter Run: 5. Roxanne Wegman 40:10.99. High Jump: 2. Karley Giles 5-3, 5. Emily Curry 4-11. Long Jump: 1. Ashley Mahlmeister 18-0.25. Pole Vault: 1. Celine Cauderlier 12-1.50 (ECAC, School Record), 6. Emily Mino 9-6.25. Discus Throw: 3. Catie Coxon 140-2 (ECAC), 6. Kadine Johnson 129-8, 8. Ashley Lewis 115-2, 13. Emily Curry 100-4. Hammer Throw: 2. Kadine Johnson 162-1, 5. Sineaid Corley 145-3. Javelin Throw: 4. Rebecca Power 126-7, 6. Ashley Lewis 116-4. Shot Put: 5. Ashley Lewis 38-7.75, 10. Kadine Johnson 36-0, 11. Catie Coxon 35-10.75, 14. Rebecca Power 34-8.50. 4x100-Meter Relay: 2. Alli Rogers, Christen Griffin, Jessica Hunter, Nyree Richardson 49.29; 6. Patrice Johnson, Katie Fargnoli, Sandy Antenor, Tenica Roberts 51.48. 4x400-Meter Relay: 1. Octavia Clarkson, Alli Rogers, Brittany Eveleth, Sherez Mohamed 3:53.36; 5. Jessica Hunter, Kendra Adams, Tenica Roberts, Renee Johnson 4:02.68.



Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

University of Albany Tennis Sweeps Manhattan; Iannone Posts 6-0, 6-0 Win at No. 6 Singles - UAlbany Sports 2010

Flushing Meadows, N.Y. - Livia Gherman won a 7-5, 6-4 match at first singles, and teamed up with Laine Mackey for an 8-0 win at top doubles to lead UAlbany to a 7-0 win over Manhattan in non-conference tennis action on Saturday afternoon at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center.

Gherman's win over Lili Johnson led the Great Danes' sweep of the singles matches, as all six went in straight sets. Susan Ma defeated Hilary Valenzuela, 6-2, 6-2 at No. 2 singles, while Laine Mackey posted a 6-1, 6-1 win over Christina Ton at third singles. In the fourth position, Caitlin Crowley defeated Christina Puleo, 6-3, 6-1, while Aubrey Brooks recorded a 6-3, 6-2 win over Stephanie Tsao at the No. 5 spot. Sarah Iannone wrapped up the singles victories for the Great Danes without dropping a set, posting a 6-0, 6-0 win over Nora Sacchi at the sixth position.

Gherman and Mackey swept Johnson and Tsao at No. 1 doubles, while Ma and Brooks defeated Valenzuela and Puleo, 8-6, in the second match. Iannone and Melissa Coughlin defeated Ton and Sacchi, 8-1, at No. 3 singles to seal up the doubles point for UAlbany.

The Great Danes will return to action on Wednesday, hosting America East Conference foe Binghamton at 3 p.m. at University Courts.


Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

University of Albany Baseball Wins America East Opener Over Maine, 11-10; Ralph Keppler Has 3 Hits & 3 RBIs - UAlbany Sports 2010

Albany, N.Y. - Pete Eichner hit a three-run homer, while catcher Ralph Keppler finished with three hits, three runs scored and three RBI to lead UAlbany to a 11-10 win over Maine in the America East Conference baseball opener on Saturday afternoon at Varsity Field. It was the first league game for both teams.

After Maine tied the game at 10-10 in the top of the eighth with an RBI single by Taylor Lewis, UAlbany's Kyle Crean drove in Keppler in the bottom of the frame for the go-ahead run. Closer Brian Gauthier entered the game in the ninth for the Great Danes, earning the save with a strikeout and two groundouts to end the game.

UAlbany took a 9-3 lead in the fourth inning, behind the home run by Eichner. The Great Danes put up a single run in the first inning and scored four in the third, taking advantage of several Maine missteps, including an error, two passed balls and a wild pitch. The Black Bears fired back, scoring three runs in both the fifth and the sixth. Shortstop Tony Patane drove in two runs in the fifth with a double down the left field line, while leftfielder Ian Leisenheimer was responsible for all three runs in the sixth with a homer to left centerfield.

UAlbany took a 10-9 lead in the bottom of the sixth on an RBI single by Crean that scored Eichner. The Great Dane defense held off attempted rallies by Maine in the seventh and eighth innings, turning double plays in both frames, while allowing just one run on three hits.

Gauthier earned his first save of the season in his one inning of work. Reliever Greg Lutton earned the win, going two innings for the Great Danes, while starter Dave Kubiak struck out seven in six innings on the mound. Justin Latta took the loss for Maine (15-14, AE 0-1). Starter Stephen Perakslis went three and a third innings with eight strikeouts, while reliever Keith Bilodeau tossed four complete frames, fanning six. Maine outhit the Great Danes, 15-12, but committed four errors.

UAlbany (2-20, AE 1-0), which halted a nine-game skid with the win, won its conference opener for the second straight season. The Great Danes will return to action against the Black Bears on Sunday, with a double header starting at 12 p.m.



Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

Macombs Dam Park, Legendary For Generations of Bronx Runners, Including UAlbany's Coach Vives

Under clouds of rain and dust, bulldozers picked through the shrinking ruins of the old Yankee Stadium on Friday. Across the street, at the gleaming new stadium festooned with huge banners, preparations continued for Opening Day next week.

Not that anybody noticed. A few hundred people had gathered in the shadow of Yankee parks old and new to celebrate Joseph Yancey, a legend who coached track and field because he loved it. His name — on a regulation issue Parks Department sign — graces the track at the new Macombs Dam Park, which itself was legendary for generations of Bronx runners.

The old track and park are gone, buried under the new stadium, where signs declare that NYY Steak and the Hard Rock Cafe are open “Year Round.” If the demise of the old Macombs Dam Park was full of sadness — if not outright bitterness — its rebirth atop a garage across the street gave cause to smile and remember and look to the future.

“I know they took our park,” said Lon Wilson, a coach who started running in the 1960s. “But this is the better deal. Before, we had no bathrooms, the stands were a mess and there were rats below. We had a whole bunch of nothing.”

Granted, runners know how to make something from nothing. It seems almost Sisyphean, running in circles. But it can be a road to self-discovery and discipline, if not riches. Those lucky enough to have found the inner path that unfolds in 400-meter increments did so because a coach cared.

Joseph Yancey, who died in 1991, was such a man. A native New Yorker, he was a founder of the New York Pioneer Club in the 1930s, serving as volunteer coach for an integrated club at a time when institutions like the New York Athletic Club did not have black members. From that base, he went on to coach thousands of people, helping them win scholarships and Olympic medals.

Some of those runners, older but just as lithe of mind and body, spoke with grace and gratitude of what they had learned from the man. Harry Bright — a former half-miler whose attitude suits his surname — sprang up to praise his coach’s leadership in forging a team that knew no boundaries of race.

“He taught us to walk up to someone and shake their hand,” Mr. Bright said. “Everything we have done since, he laid the background to prepare for the future.”

In the audience, men of a certain age nodded knowingly. Among them was Ed Robinson, who earned the nickname Swifty and who went from running at nearby Cardinal Hayes High School to coaching there for many years. Now in his 60s and retired, he still officiates at meets.

Mr. Robinson’s temper at times was Wagnerian, but the results bore him out. Some of his young charges went on to become college stars. Many more went on to be lawyers, doctors, teachers. Face it, in the 1970s, nobody was making any money running in the Bronx, except maybe the guy sprinting down the Concourse with a snatched purse.

Coach Robinson smiled approvingly at the new park, which cost $35 million and looks it. Too bad the world of schoolboy track is no longer what it was, even if the facilities here, and at the Fort Washington Armory and Randalls Island, are better than ever. The squads are smaller, he said, and while they have a few good runners, they lack a deep bench of talent. Teenagers seem unwilling to push themselves, while meet organizers are reluctant to upset parents and children.

“Everybody gets a medal,” he said. “Some Jersey meets just throw medals at the kids. They walk around with these ribbons hanging on their necks with medals on their chests just clacking around.”

Roberto Vives knows the satisfaction of a medal won through sacrifice. As a teenager, he was among Coach Robinson’s runners, a wiry sprinter with big glasses and an even bigger Afro. As he worked his way through college with a job at Alexander’s, his dedication was tested every evening when he got home to the Patterson Projects and had to decide between rice or running.

“I’d get changed, then go out, smelling the steak and rice and beans, oh man,” he said. “I’d run over to the track and leave my sweats in the middle of the track. That way, if someone tried to grab them, you had a chance of catching them. If you left it on the side on the back straightaway, forget it, they’d be gone.”

Macombs remains Mr. Vives’s touchstone.

“I have pride in my roots, in what track and field means to me,” he said. “I do what I do because of Macombs.”

And he does it well. Now the head track coach at the State University at Albany, he has coached scores of All American runners, seen his team win — among others — two consecutive IC4A titles and been named this year’s Northeast region Coach of the Year.

“I tell my runners where that stadium is now, that’s where I got my start in track and field,” Mr. Vives said. “That is hallowed ground.”

By DAVID GONZALEZ

Six UAlbany Field Hockey Players Named to NFHCA Division I National Academic Squad

Jess Lindsey and Sarah Deane were named to the 2009 NFHCA Division I National Academic Squad for the second straight season, as announced by the organization. The pair was joined by sophomore Megan Springmeyer and freshmen Taylor Luke, Brianna Schwoyer and Kristi Troch.

UAlbany's six student-athletes were six of almost 700 field hockey players from across the nation named to the team. The National Academic Squad recognizes those student-athletes from 77 Division I programs from around the country who have achieved a cumulative grade point average of 3.30 or higher through the first semester of the 2009-10 academic year.

Lindsey, a senior defender from Norristown, Pa., helped anchor a defense that allowed just 13 goals in 18 games this season. Lindsey is UAlbany's all-time career assists leader with 50 helpers and is tied for sixth in career points with 78. She has been a member of the America East Conference Commissioner's Honor Roll and the UAlbany Athletics Honor Roll. She was an all-conference first team and all-rookie team honoree as a freshman. Lindsey has maintained a 3.50 cumulative grade point average while majoring in psychology.

Deane, a junior from Orefield, Pa., started all 18 games for the Great Danes this season in the defensive midfield, recording one goal. Deane is now a three-time NFHCA Division I National Academic Team honoree, and is also a member of the America East Commissioner's Honor Roll and the UAlbany Athletic Director's Honor Roll. A psychology major, Deane holds a 3.88 cumulative GPA. Springmeyer, a sophomore midfielder, played in 14 games in 2009, scoring two goals. A business administration major, Springmeyer posted a 3.43 GPA.

Luke, Schwoyer and Troch all earned spots on the America East Conference Rookie Team last fall. Luke (3.61 GPA, human biology), a freshman defender, made an immediate impact in the backfield, anchoring a defense that led all Division I team in goals allowed at 0.56 per game. Schwoyer (3.77 GPA, occupational therapy), a defender, and Troch (3.70 GPA, human biology), a goalkeeper, both saw action in all 16 contests. Troch recorded a 0.88 goals against average in the cage, splitting time with Christine Hoffman. The duo of goalkeepers allowed just nine goals in 16 games, and Hoffman's 0.25 goals against average and .935 save percentage led the nation.

Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

University of Albany Women's Lacrosse Takes Ninth Straight Game in 17-5 America East Win Against Stony Brook - UAlbany Sports 2010

Albany, N.Y. - Kayla Best scored four times and Taylor Frink added two goals and two assists in leading UAlbany to its ninth consecutive win and a 17-5 victory over Stony Brook in America East Conference play on Wednesday, April 7 at John Fallon Field.

UAlbany (9-1, AE 3-0) tallied four goals in the opening nine minutes. After Mel Rorie caused a turnover, senior midfielder Olivia Jarem drove to the cage and sent a shot inside the left post. Christine Grueniger split two defenders and connected on a sidearm blast for the first of her two goals. Rachael Burek and Melanie Sosnowski scored 24 seconds apart to end the outburst. Burek converted Frink's right-to-left crossing pass, before Sosnowski drilled a feed from Amanda Pollock inside the left post.

The Great Danes held the visitors off the scoreboard in the first half, as goalkeeper Ashley Ross made five of her 10 saves in the period. Meanwhile, Best and Grueniger each scored in a 26-second span to push their team's advantage to a six-goal margin. Best, who extended her goal-scoring streak to 56 consecutive games, the nation's second-longest, later drove into the middle and switched to her left hand to find the net after the ball was cleared from the defensive end. Frink capped her team's decisive opening-half play by spinning against two defenders to score with 1.6 seconds remaining.

"We were able to make stops and get the ball to our attack," said defensive midfielder Nikki Branchini, who had seven draw controls and forced three turnovers. "Mel (Rorie) and I were active with our sticks and anticipated over throws in the middle of the field. Those turnovers are momentum killers and then (Ashley) Ross stopped a couple of free-position attempts."

UAlbany led by double figures most of the second half. Best connected on a free-position shot and Burek put back a rebound after Seawolves goalkeeper Mickey Cahill made one of her 13 saves. Stony Brook (3-9, AE 1-2) got back-to-back goals from Nicolle Moran and Jessica Romano to close within 13-4 with 10:16 left. But the Great Danes regrouped when Rorie, who had a career-high four caused turnovers, nailed a free-position opportunity and Best moved around a defender to fine the cage with a low shot.

Burek, a freshman, finished with two goals and one assist for the Great Danes, who have won their opening three conference games for the first time since joining America East in 2002. Jarem and Sosnowski added a pair of goals. Moran scored twice for the Seawolves, who were coming off a last-second league win over Vermont in their last outing.

"Defensively, we played well as a unit in the first half," UAlbany coach Lindsey Hart offered. "They did their job and got loose balls. We had better discipline on the ride where we were patient and not fouling. Those caused turnovers take the wind out of your sails and become two-goal swings."

Paw Prints: UAlbany and Stony Brook had split their previous eight meetings ... Kayla Best scored four or more goals for the 15th time as a collegian ... Best moved into third place on the program's all-time scoring list with 183 points (152 goals, 31 assists), climbing past Hall of Famer Dawn DiMicco '01 ... Rachael Burek registered career-highs in goals (2) and points (3) ... sophomore Jenn Primeau scored her first career goal with 19 seconds remaining ... Nikki Branchini is second among the NCAA Division I leaders in draw controls at 5.89 per game.


Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

University of Albany's Alex Leuchanka and Laura Cummings Garner America East Track & Field Weekly Awards - UAlbany Sports 2010

Cambridge, Mass. - University at Albany's Alex Leuchanka and Laura Cummings earned America East Conference Track and Field weekly honors, as announced by the league office on Tuesday, April 6. Leuchanka was named the men's track performer of the week, while Cummings earned women's track performer of the week accolades.

Leuchanka, a freshman from Clifton Park, N.Y., won the men's 10,000-meter run in 30:44.22 at the Duke Invitational last weekend. He outdistanced the second-place finisher from Pittsburgh by over 11 seconds to qualify for the IC4A Championship. The time is an America East Conference best this season by over two minutes. In addition, the mark ranks 65th overall and 10th among freshmen nationally, plus is 37th overall and seventh among freshmen in the East Region.

Cummings, a senior from Bay Shore, N.Y., placed first in the women's 3,000-meter steeplechase in 10:38.43 at Duke, edging the second-place finisher from North Carolina State by .48 seconds to qualify for the ECAC Championship. Her time ranks first among America East student-athletes this season. Cummings is also one of just two student-athletes in the league to break the 11-minute mark in the event along with teammate Jenn Pierson. In addition, the senior's time ranks 18th in the nation and eighth in the East Region.

The UAlbany outdoor track and field programs will compete at the UMass Invitational, a nine-team scoring meet, on Saturday, April 10 at 11:30 a.m.

Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

University of Albany's Christine Grueniger Chosen America East Conference Lacrosse Player of the Week - UAlbany Sports 2010

Cambridge, Mass. - University at Albany's Christine Grueniger has been named the America East Conference Player of the Week in women's lacrosse, as announced on Monday, April 5 by the conference office. Grueniger earned the league's defensive player of the week award earlier this season.

A native of Lindenhurst, N.Y., Grueniger equaled a career-high with five goals, all in the first half, in a 24-3 victory over Binghamton on April 3. She also had five points (2 goals, 3 assists) in an 18-5 road win at Vermont to open conference play on March 31. Her career-best three assists all came in a six-goal outburst to begin the second half. The senior attacker is tied for third on the team in scoring with 21 goals and seven assists this season.

Grueniger became the 12th player in school history to reach the 100-point mark last week. She is currently eighth in goals (84) and 11th in points (106) among the program's all-time leaders.

Paw Prints: UAlbany (8-1, AE 2-0) won its opening two games in America East Conference play for the first time since joining the league in 2002 ... the Great Danes have won eight in a row, their longest streak as a Division I program ... UAlbany tied its Division I single-game scoring mark with 24 goals vs. Binghamton on April 3 and is ranked second nationally in scoring offense (16.89 goals/game) ... Nikki Branchini came close to the NCAA record with 14 draw controls vs. Binghamton ... Branchini, a junior midfielder who shattered UAlbany's Division I single-game standard, added a career-high three points (1 goal, 2 assists) last Saturday ... Taylor Frink is first among the league's scoring leaders with 23 goals and 13 assists ... senior midfielder Olivia Jarem had a career-high four goals at Vermont and came back with a career-high five points (3 goals, 2 assists) against Binghamton ... Kayla Best has scored at least one goal in 55 consecutive games.


Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

UAlbany Welcomes Back Outside Linebacker Chris Blais As Spring Football Practice Begins

Albany, N.Y. - Head coach Bob Ford welcomed back his football squad for the first day of spring practice on Monday (April 5) at the Mara-Tisch Practice Field near the Western Avenue side of campus. No one was happier to return to the natural grass field than Chris Blais.

"My emotions were high today," said Blais, who missed all of last season due to injuries after making 31 tackles in 12 appearances at outside linebacker during the 2008 campaign. "I physically marked this (date) on the calendar. Last year was frustrating."

A native of Troy, N.Y. where he was the area's top defensive player as a high school senior, Blais was saddled with two separate right hand injuries. He fractured his thumb during the preseason and a pin was surgically placed to help the healing process. After going through the recovery period, he got back on the practice field in October only to break two metacarpal bones in a separate incident.

"It was discouraging, but I look at the positives," explained Blais, who moved to his current position from the secondary two springs ago. "You don't get too many opportunities like this (to play college football), plus I missed being on the field with everyone."

After Blais and his defensive teammates wrapped up the first spring session with a pursuit drill, he talked about his obligations as a senior to the younger players. "I want to help them along the way," he said. "It's too much to handle for a freshman. Dave Nicomini and Trevor DuPont (former UAlbany players) helped me. You want them to do well in the future, so that the program can maintain its level or go even higher."

Blais admits that the first week of the spring will be a transition for him. Maybe he can also assist in the development of those around him.

Paw Prints: UAlbany was dressed in helmets and shorts for the first spring workout and will not wear pads until Friday (April 9) ... competition will be keen at several positions after 17 seniors graduated off last year's 7-4 team ... inside lineacker Said Gaida was pleased to be on the field with his new team ... Gaida is eligible immediately as Hofstra discontinued football after the 2009 season ... Rob Cervini, who had to sit out last year after transferring from Rutgers, worked at free safety and as a holder on the field goal/PAT special teams unit.

Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

UAlbany Begins Spring Football Practice Today; Intrasquad Game Slated for April 24

Albany, N.Y. - Spring practice for the University at Albany football program begins on Monday, April 5. The first workout is scheduled from 4:00-6:00 p.m. on the Mara-Tisch Practice Field, adjacent to the SEFCU Arena parking area. The Great Danes, who are allowed 15 practices, are slated to play an intrasquad spring game on Saturday, April 24.

2010 SPRING PREVIEW

UAlbany was once again among the Northeast Conference leaders after finishing second in the league standings one year ago. The Great Danes, who have won four NEC titles since 2002, also defeated a national top-20 program for the first time in three years.

Head coach Bob Ford, the active Division I FCS leader with 241 career victories, has 45 letterwinners back from last year's 7-4 squad. Ford expects a highly competitve spring with several questions to be answered.

"On defense, we need to identify depth at inside and outside linebacker and cornerback," says Ford, who is faced with replacing 17 seniors. "The development of our quarterbacks, who are starting tailback will be and the role of our offensive guards and tight ends are also areas to be addressed." Ford continues, "Leadership is an important factor. Who are the leaders on this team and who will step forward."

OFFENSE: The Great Danes return four of five starters on the offensive line for a unit that averaged 26.6 points and 341.3 total yards. Andy Sparano (5-11, 270) shared the team's top offensive lineman award in his first year as a starter. Sparano can play at center and guard. Vince Gonzales (6-4, 275) started all 11 games at left tackle in earning the program's most improved award. Sophomores Keith Peifer (6-4, 280) and Kyle O'Keefe (6-3, 285) were regulars at right tackle and left guard, respectively. Andrew Stevens (6-4, 280) also has starting experience, while Matt Faughnan (6-3, 275) and Chaz Mitchell (6-3, 250) have taken snaps in the heat of the action.

The Great Danes lost their top passer, an all-conference receiver and the school's career rushing leader. However, quarterback Andrew Smith represents the future after having been used as a triple-threat weapon during his redshirt freshman season. Smith rushed for 379 yards and five touchdowns, threw a scoring pass and caught a pair of TDs. Dan Di Lella (6-5, 225) has some game experience.

In the receiving corps, Jason Poore (6-6, 210) is the top returnee with 26 receptions for 243 yards and two touchdowns. Ryan Kirchner, a sure-handed sophomore, and John Lullen increased their production with 16 and 14 receptions, respectively. Tight end Paul Booker (6-4, 230) is a rising star who must expand his role. He caught two TD passes last year. UAlbany will have new faces in its rushing attack. Fullbacks Ben Carl and Justin Petersen did not have one single carry last season. Tailbacks Tramaine Wilson, a redshirt freshman, and true freshman Dillon Romain are in the same boat. Romain, a prep school star in the fall of 2009, will be available for spring practice after entering school in January.

DEFENSE: The Great Danes were tough against the run and allowed just over 19 points per game. "We have a solid line with decent safeties and a good cornerback," Ford states. "I am concerned about our depth."

Trevor Anderson (6-2, 285) may elevate his play to another level after earning first-team All-NEC honors. Anderson, who has more than 100 career tackles, was second the team in sacks (3.0). Zach Gallo (6-0, 245) had 38 tackles as a defensive tackle. Mike Kelly (6-2, 235), Eddie Delaney (6-6, 240) and Marc Wargo (6-2, 235) are all talented defensive ends. Kelly had 26 tackles in a season interrupted by a leg injury. He had 5.5 sacks the previous year. Delaney, who plays with one hand, made 33 tackles, including six for losses, after receiving second-team all-league recognition in 2008. Wargo had 13 tackles and 3.0 sacks as a sophomore.

All four starting linebackers, including two first-team selections, graduated. Chris Wilk (6-2, 230) and Dave Plungas (6-2, 230) earned quality time at the inside positions. Wilk had 14 tackles and one interceptions, while Plungas made 17 stops. Hofstra transfer Said Gaida, who has 32 career appearances, and Chris Van Zelfden will also see the field. The Great Danes will have several veteran outside linebackers vying for starting roles. Jon Morgan (6-2, 210) had 33 tackles and two fumble recoveries in his first year as a collegian. Chris Blais, who missed all of last season with a pair of hand injuries, saw his first time on the outside in the 2008 campaign and made 31 tackles.

Ross Bertrand, who has 105 career tackles, will start for the third consecutive season at cornerback. Duane Harper (13 tackles) made the transition from tailback last year. Jake Ciccarello, the star of last year's Maine victory, and Justin Hassan appear to have the edge at the safety positions. Ciccarello totaled 30 tackles, two interceptions and three blocked kicks.

KICKING GAME: A talented group of kickers include Herb Glass, a second-team All-NEC pick. He led the team in scoring with 61 points and made 12 of 18 field goals. Bobby Woods averaged 36.2 yards per punt. Redshirt freshman Paul Layton will challenge.

PAW PRINTS: The Great Danes return nine starters from last year's 7-4 squad ... UAlbany finished second in the Northeast Conference standings ... the Northeast Conference champion receives an automatic berth in the NCAA Division I Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) Championship for the first time in 2010 ... UAlbany's Bob Ford is first among active NCAA Division I FCS coaches with 241 career victories ... Ford, the architect of the UAlbany program, has a 232-147 career record in 37 varsity seasons as head coach.

Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

Christine Grueniger Nets Five Goals in America East Win Against Binghamton, 24-3 - UAlbany Sports 2010

Albany, N.Y. - Christine Grueniger equaled a career-high with five goals, all in the first half, in leading UAlbany to a 24-3 America East Conference victory over Binghamton on Saturday, April 3 at John Fallon Field. The Great Danes have won a school-record eight a row.

UAlbany (8-1, AE 2-0) connected on 11 of its first 13 shots en route to a 10-goal lead midway through the opening half. The Great Danes led 2-1, but then scored four times in a two-minute-and-28-second span to pull away. Taylor Frink, who totaled two goals and four assists, drove from behind the cage and spun to her left shoulder to start that outburst. Kayla Best converted Nikki Branchini's pass against a defensive double-team, before Grueniger added a pair. The senior attacker made a free-position shot from the left side and then scored in transition by working around a defender.

The Great Danes, who tied the school's Division I single-game scoring record, built an 18-1 cushion by halftime. Melanie Sosnowski tallied four of her five goals in the period, including a driving shot with 2.5 seconds remaining before the break after Grueniger won the draw.

"We kept moving the ball and executing our plays," explained Grueniger, who also scored five times against Niagara as a freshman. "Our goal is to win the first ten minutes of each half. Winning is fun."

UAlbany did not let up in the early stages of the second half by scoring four unanswered in the opening eight minutes of the period. Olivia Jarem, a senior midfielder who accounted for three goals and two assists, placed a shot inside the right point after a clearing play and then set up Sosnowski for another tally. Julie Bush, who came off the bench to add three goals and one assist, netted back-to-back shots, including the first when she caused a turnover on a clearing attempt and hit an empty net. Branchini, who dominated the draw with a career-high 14 controls, fed Bush on her second goal.

"Draw controls are important and help with time of possession," offered Branchini, who scored once and assisted on two more. "It's about reacting to the whistle, getting low, boxing out and placing the ball to your teammates. You are not always going to get it (the draw) yourself."

Binghamton (0-8, AE 0-2) was led by junior attacker Ali Castiglie, who netted two goals. Beth Moore added one goal and one assist. Mel Rorie and Kayla Best each scored twice for the Great Danes, who have won their opening two conference game for the first time.

"We were relatively disciplined and stuck to the game plan," said UAlbany coach Lindsey Hart, whose opponent dropped a three-goal decision to defending America East champion Boston University one week ago. "We had told them that this was not a team that you can take for granted. We established ourselves early."

Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

University of Albany Softball Takes A-East Doubleheader at Hartford; Marissa Powell Picks Up Win and Save - UAlbany Sports 2010

West Hartford, Conn. - Senior pitcher Marissa Powell earned a key save in the opener and picked up her third straight victory in the nightcap in leading UAlbany to a doubleheader sweep of Hartford in America East Conference softball action on Saturday, April 3 at the UH Softball Field. The Great Danes edged the Hawks in game one, 3-2, before taking the nightcap by a 5-2 score.

In game two, Hartford (10-8, AE 1-4) jumped out to a quick lead by tallying one run in the bottom of the second. Jordan Haines drew a leadoff walk before Rachel Clonick and Kate Wacyk hit singles to load the bases with nobody out. An Ann Kyzer single to the shortstop, the Hawks' third hit in a row, plated Haines.

After a tough start, Powell was able to get out of the major jam by keeping the ball in the infield and getting some help from her defense. The senior fanned Erica Phelps, and Michelle Connors successfully gunned down Clonick for the force out at home on a fielder's choice play. With the bases still loaded, Amanda Dilworth grounded out to Powell to end the inning.

UAlbany (12-9, AE 4-1) rallied to take a 2-1 lead in the top of the third inning and added two more runs in the fifth to go ahead by three. Katie Wambold hit a leadoff single and came home two plays later on a single to left field by Andrianna Walraven. The junior shortstop stole second and scored the go-ahead thanks to a single to center by Connors. A two-run homer by Kristine Bill made it a 4-1 game through four-and-a-half innings.

Hartford attempted to rally when Clonick homered to lead off the bottom of the sixth, but the visitors answered with another run to start the seventh and final frame. Jessica Bergin belted a leadoff single to center and stole second to move into scoring position. Kristine Bill then doubled to the same spot two plays later to plate the junior. Powell and the Great Dane defense then used a double play to keep the Hawks off the scoreboard in the bottom half of the seventh inning to earn their 10th victory in the last 11 games.

UAlbany's Powell went the distance and improved her record to 3-5 this season after striking out six and allowing two runs and seven hits. Hartford's Siera Sheehan also hurled a complete game and dropped to 3-5 after yielding seven hits and five runs. She struck out seven and issued two walks.

After three scoreless innings, UAlbany got on the board first in game one by pushing across two runs in the top of the fourth. Kat Smith hit a solo home run to left field with one out to start the scoring. Hartford ace Brittney Stratton forced the next batter to foul out to the first baseman, but Bergin and Bailey Van Deest hit consecutive doubles to add to the lead for the visitors before the final out of the frame could be recorded.

Leah McIntosh struck out the side in the bottom of the fourth and got some more run support in the top half of the fifth. Connors hit a two-out triple to the gap in right center and came home on a wild pitch by Stratton.

Hartford, which recently swept a doubleheader against Holy Cross earlier in the week, battled back by scoring two runs in the bottom of the fifth. Hitting with two outs and runners on first and second, Nicole Springer blasted a two-run double to left center to cut the Great Dane lead to a run.

After UAlbany left the bases loaded in the top of the seventh, the hosts made a major threat to at least tie the game and force extra innings in the bottom half of the inning. Dilworth led off with a double to left field to put the tying run in scoring position and the winning run at the plate. However, Powell relieved McIntosh and retired the next three batters to earn her first career save.

UAlbany's McIntosh improved to 5-2 this season by striking out a season-high 12 batters in six innings of work. She issued three walks and gave up six hits and two runs. Powell did not allow a hit in an inning of relief and picked up the first save by a Great Dane pitcher this season. Hartford's Stratton suffered the loss and fell to 6-3 on the year. She yielded eight hits and three runs in five innings of work while fanning two. Springer pitched two scoreless innings of relief, surrendering a hit and three walks.

UAlbany and Hartford will wrap up the three-game weekend series tomorrow afternoon at 12 p.m.

UAlbany 000 210 0 3 9 2
Hartford 000 020 0 2 6 1
UAlbany: Leah McIntosh, Marissa Powell (7) and Kat Smith.
Hartford: Brittney Stratton, Nicole Springer (6) and Sara Messinger.

UAlbany 002 020 1 5 7 0
Hartford 010 001 0 2 7 0
UAlbany: Marissa Powell and Kat Smith.
Hartford: Siera Sheehan and Jordan Haines.


Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

University of Albany's Leuchanka and Cummings Win Events With IC4A and ECAC Qualifying Times at Duke - UAlbany Sports 2010

Durham, N.C. - Freshman Alex Leuchanka and senior Laura Cummings each won events with IC4A and ECAC qualifying times as the UAlbany outdoor track and field teams wrapped up the weekend at the Duke Invitational on Saturday, April 3 at Wallace Wade Stadium. Craig Weiss also became the third Great Dane to qualify for the USA Junior National Championships this year.

Leuchanka's winning time of 30:44.22 in the men's 10,000-meter run late Friday evening outdistanced the second-place finisher from Pittsburgh by over 11 seconds. The mark was an America East Conference best this season by over two minutes. In addition, the time ranked as one of the top 30 times in the East Region and was among the top 10 marks nationally by a freshman. R.J. Sniffen was also victorious that same evening by winning his section of the men's 5,000 in 15:09.82.

Cummings won the women's 3,000-meter steeplechase in 10:38.43 by running one of the fastest times in the nation this spring. Jenn Pierson, who was competing in the event for the first time at any level, also met the ECAC standard by finishing third in 10:44.82. Cummings and Pierson's times were also the top two marks in the America East Conference this season. In addition, Weiss qualified for USA Junior Nationals by finishing the men's steeplechase in a 13th-place time of 9:37.76.

Fred Casimo and Candice Mann led the Great Danes in the field events. Casimo placed fifth in the men's long jump by leaping 23-feet, 9.50-inches to qualify for the IC4A Championship, while Mann finished fourth in the shot put with a mark of 40-7.75.

The UAlbany men's and women's outdoor track and field teams will compete at the UMass Invitational on Saturday, Apr. 10 at 11:30 a.m.

Paw Prints: After sending R.J. Sniffen to the national meet in the 5,000-meter run last season, UAlbany already has three student-athletes who have qualified for the USA Junior National Championships this year ... Freshman Craig Weiss, who met the standard of 9:38.00 in the men's steeplechase this afternoon, will join classmates Sean Halpin and Ashley Mahlmeister at the prestigious event which takes place annually at the end of June ... Halpin and Mahlmeister eclipsed qualifying marks during the indoor season and are slated to compete in the men's 1,500-meter run and women's triple jump, respectively.

UAlbany Men's Results
100-Meter Dash (Seeded Prelims): 31. Germain Smith 11.31. 400-Meter Dash (Seeded): 30. Alex Petit-Frere 50.58. 110-Meter High Hurdles (Prelims): 24. Mohamed Kanu 15.58. 800-Meter Run (Developmental): 10. Ian Ellis 1:56.76. 5,000-Meter Run (Section B): 1. R.J. Sniffen 15:09.82. 10,000-Meter Run: 1. Alex Leuchanka 30:44.22 (IC4A). 3,000-Meter Steeplechase: 8. Ethan Clary 9:29.56, 13. Craig Weiss 9:37.76 (USA Junior National), 17. Chris Manico 9:47.04. Long Jump: 5. Fred Casimo 23-9.50 (IC4A). Discus Throw: 19. Stephen Hassard 139-0, 20. Will Anger 138-3.

UAlbany Women's Results
100-Meter Dash (Seeded Prelims): 26. Nyree Richardson 12.78. 200-Meter Dash (Seeded): 18. Nyree Richardson 25.67, 21. Jessica Hunter 25.81, 36. Tierra Chavis 26.21, 38. Elia Francis 26.31. 400-Meter Dash (Seeded): 21. Tierra Chavis 59.36, 22. Brittany Eveleth 59.44, 23. Jessica Hunter 59.45, 29. Elia Francis 59.90. 100-Meter High Hurdles (Prelims): 21. Ashley Mahlmeister 15.13. 800-Meter Run (Developmental): 7. Maureen Nweke 2:21.13, 26. Kendra Adams 2:24.66. 3,000-Meter Steeplechase: 1. Laura Cummings 10:38.43 (ECAC), 3. Jenn Pierson 10:44.82 (ECAC). Long Jump: 9. Pat McNish 18-5.25, 18. Ashley Mahlmeister 17-4. Discus Throw: 17. Ashley Lewis 110-8. Shot Put: 4. Candice Mann 40-7.75, 11. Ashley Lewis 38-8.25, 18. Catie Coxon 35-6. 4x100-Meter Relay: 12. Nyree Richardson, Ashley Mahlmeister, Elia Francis, Jessica Hunter 49.56. 4x400-Meter Relay: 9. Elia Francis, Brittany Eveleth, Tierra Chavis, Jessica Hunter 3:57.66.


Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

University of Albany's John Moore Anchors Two Relay Teams That Break School Records at Texas Relays -UAlbany Sports 2010

Austin, Texas - John Moore anchored two relays that broke school records as the UAlbany outdoor track and field teams wrapped up the weekend at the 83rd Annual Clyde Littlefield Texas Relays on Saturday, Apr. 3 at Mike A. Meyers stadium. Tyler Fogarty also ran on both relays which finished ahead of eight different institutions from the Big 12, Southeastern and Pacific-10 conferences.

Late Friday night, the men's 4x1,500-meter relay team set a program standard by finishing in the runner-up position behind Arkansas in 15:27.39. Sean Halpin, who led off the relay, stayed among a tight pack and moved up a few spots before ending his leg with a split time of 3:53.8. Fogarty then surged into first place on the second leg, which he finished in 3:49.9. Paul Lagno kept the lead for most of the third leg before falling into fifth by running a split time of 3:56.5, as Arkansas' Patrick Russell broke loose from the close group and was all alone with 1,500 meters to go.

Moore, who ran a 3:46.8 split on the anchor leg, closed in on Arkansas' Michael Chinchar and almost caught the Razorback runner on the final turn before ending the race in second among nine schools. UAlbany finished just .96 seconds behind Arkansas and ahead of Texas, LSU, Texas A&M, Baylor and Kansas of the Big 12 and Southeastern Conferences.

Early Saturday afternoon, the men's distance medley relay team broke the second-oldest school record which stood unchallenged for 19 years by finishing third behind Texas and Wayland Baptist in 9:45.71. The mark shatttered the previous standard of 9:54.81 set by Joseph McCullen, Derek Westbrook, Howard Sellers and Todd Orvis in 1991. Fogarty led off by running the 1,200-meter leg in 2:59.6, while Jonathan Santana navigated the 400-meter track with a split time of 47.1 seconds on the second leg. Nick Santos finished the 800-meters in 1:50.4, while Moore clocked in a split of 4:08.3 in the 1,600 as the anchor of the squad. UAlbany bettered UCLA, Texas Tech, Baylor, LSU and Arkansas in the race among others.

In addition, the women's 4x200-meter relay came within a second of breaking the program standard. Alli Rogers, Christen Griffin, Tenica Roberts and Octavia Clarkson combined for a time 1:40.38, which challenged the record of 1:39.44 set by Griffin along with Tierra Chavis, Jenn Gurrant and Fey Adaramola at last year's Penn Relays.

The UAlbany men's and women's outdoor track and field teams will compete at the UMass Invitational on Saturday, Apr. 10 at 11:30 a.m.

UAlbany Men's Results
4x200-Meter Relay (University Invitational): 12. Jake Rachiele, Peter Rowell, Taylor Chaney, Tristan Akong 1:28.35. Distance Medley Relay (University): 3. Tyler Fogarty, Jonathan Santana, Nick Santos, John Moore 9:45.71 (School Record). 4x1,500-Meter Relay (University): 2. Sean Halpin, Tyler Fogarty, Paul Lagno, John Moore 15:27.39 (School Record).

Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

UAlbany Begins Spring Football Practice on Monday; Intrasquad Game Slated for April 24

Albany, N.Y. - Spring practice for the University at Albany football program begins on Monday, April 5. The first workout is scheduled from 4:00-6:00 p.m. on the Mara-Tisch Practice Field, adjacent to the SEFCU Arena parking area. The Great Danes, who are allowed 15 practices, are slated to play an intrasquad spring game on Saturday, April 24.

2010 SPRING PREVIEW

UAlbany was once again among the Northeast Conference leaders after finishing second in the league standings one year ago. The Great Danes, who have won four NEC titles since 2002, also defeated a national top-20 program for the first time in three years.

Head coach Bob Ford, the active Division I FCS leader with 241 career victories, has 45 letterwinners back from last year's 7-4 squad. Ford expects a highly competitve spring with several questions to be answered.

"On defense, we need to identify depth at inside and outside linebacker and cornerback," says Ford, who is faced with replacing 17 seniors. "The development of our quarterbacks, who are starting tailback will be and the role of our offensive guards and tight ends are also areas to be addressed." Ford continues, "Leadership is an important factor. Who are the leaders on this team and who will step forward."

OFFENSE: The Great Danes return four of five starters on the offensive line for a unit that averaged 26.6 points and 341.3 total yards. Andy Sparano (5-11, 270) shared the team's top offensive lineman award in his first year as a starter. Sparano can play at center and guard. Vince Gonzales (6-4, 275) started all 11 games at left tackle in earning the program's most improved award. Sophomores Keith Peifer (6-4, 280) and Kyle O'Keefe (6-3, 285) were regulars at right tackle and left guard, respectively. Andrew Stevens (6-4, 280) also has starting experience, while Matt Faughnan (6-3, 275) and Chaz Mitchell (6-3, 250) have taken snaps in the heat of the action.

The Great Danes lost their top passer, an all-conference receiver and the school's career rushing leader. However, quarterback Andrew Smith represents the future after having been used as a triple-threat weapon during his redshirt freshman season. Smith rushed for 379 yards and five touchdowns, threw a scoring pass and caught a pair of TDs. Dan Di Lella (6-5, 225) has some game experience.

In the receiving corps, Jason Poore (6-6, 210) is the top returnee with 26 receptions for 243 yards and two touchdowns. Ryan Kirchner, a sure-handed sophomore, and John Lullen increased their production with 16 and 14 receptions, respectively. Tight end Paul Booker (6-4, 230) is a rising star who must expand his role. He caught two TD passes last year. UAlbany will have new faces in its rushing attack. Fullbacks Ben Carl and Justin Petersen did not have one single carry last season. Tailbacks Tramaine Wilson, a redshirt freshman, and true freshman Dillon Romain are in the same boat. Romain, a prep school star in the fall of 2009, will be available for spring practice after entering school in January.

DEFENSE: The Great Danes were tough against the run and allowed just over 19 points per game. "We have a solid line with decent safeties and a good cornerback," Ford states. "I am concerned about our depth."

Trevor Anderson (6-2, 285) may elevate his play to another level after earning first-team All-NEC honors. Anderson, who has more than 100 career tackles, was second the team in sacks (3.0). Zach Gallo (6-0, 245) had 38 tackles as a defensive tackle. Mike Kelly (6-2, 235), Eddie Delaney (6-6, 240) and Marc Wargo (6-2, 235) are all talented defensive ends. Kelly had 26 tackles in a season interrupted by a leg injury. He had 5.5 sacks the previous year. Delaney, who plays with one hand, made 33 tackles, including six for losses, after receiving second-team all-league recognition in 2008. Wargo had 13 tackles and 3.0 sacks as a sophomore.

All four starting linebackers, including two first-team selections, graduated. Chris Wilk (6-2, 230) and Dave Plungas (6-2, 230) earned quality time at the inside positions. Wilk had 14 tackles and one interceptions, while Plungas made 17 stops. Hofstra transfer Said Gaida, who has 32 career appearances, and Chris Van Zelfden will also see the field. The Great Danes will have several veteran outside linebackers vying for starting roles. Jon Morgan (6-2, 210) had 33 tackles and two fumble recoveries in his first year as a collegian. Chris Blais, who missed all of last season with a pair of hand injuries, saw his first time on the outside in the 2008 campaign and made 31 tackles.

Ross Bertrand, who has 105 career tackles, will start for the third consecutive season at cornerback. Duane Harper (13 tackles) made the transition from tailback last year. Jake Ciccarello, the star of last year's Maine victory, and Justin Hassan appear to have the edge at the safety positions. Ciccarello totaled 30 tackles, two interceptions and three blocked kicks.

KICKING GAME: A talented group of kickers include Herb Glass, a second-team All-NEC pick. He led the team in scoring with 61 points and made 12 of 18 field goals. Bobby Woods averaged 36.2 yards per punt. Redshirt freshman Paul Layton will challenge.

PAW PRINTS: The Great Danes return nine starters from last year's 7-4 squad ... UAlbany finished second in the Northeast Conference standings ... the Northeast Conference champion receives an automatic berth in the NCAA Division I Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) Championship for the first time in 2010 ... UAlbany's Bob Ford is first among active NCAA Division I FCS coaches with 241 career victories ... Ford, the architect of the UAlbany program, has a 232-147 career record in 37 varsity seasons as head coach.


Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

University of Albany's Rogers Eclipses Two ECAC Marks to Lead Track & Field Teams at Texas Relays - UAlbany Sports 2010

Austin, Texas - Freshman sprinter Alli Rogers qualified for the ECAC Championship by winning her heat in the women's 100-meter dash and running the first leg for the 4x100-meter relay to lead the UAlbany outdoor track and field teams at the 83rd Annual Clyde Littlefield Texas Relays on Friday, April 2 at Mike A. Myers Stadium.

Competing in fields which were full of All-Americans from last year's NCAA Championships, both the men's and women's 4x100-meter relay teams ran IC4A and ECAC qualifying times to start the day. The women's group consisting of Rogers, Christen Griffin, Sheena Simpkins and Sherez Mohamed was clocked in at 47.78 seconds, while Jake Rachiele, Jonathan Santana, Taylor Chaney and Jeffery Barnes combined for a time of 41.67 in the men's race.

In individual events, the Great Danes were led by Rogers and Valete Graham. Rogers ran a wind-aided time of 12.02 in the 100 to meet the ECAC standard by .08 seconds. It was also the fastest time by an America East Conference student-athlete this season. Graham placed 10th in his section of the long jump by leaping 22-feet, 8.50-inches.

Select members of UAlbany's men's and women's outdoor track and field teams will continue competing at the Texas Relays through tomorrow afternoon.


UAlbany Men's Results
100-Meter Dash (University East Prelims): 46. Tristan Akong 11.02, 50. Earnest Waters 11.06. 110-Meter High Hurdles (University Prelims): 42. Garrett Askew 15.07, 48. Freddie Wills 15.25. Long Jump (University/College Section B): 10. Valete Graham 22-8.50. 4x100-Meter Relay (Clyde Littlefield University Prelims): 19. Jake Rachiele, Jonathan Santana, Taylor Chaney, Jeffery Barnes 41.67 (IC4A). 4x400-Meter Relay (University Prelims): 22. Jeffery Barnes, Peter Rowell, Ebube Abara, Jonathan Santana 3:18.56.

UAlbany Women's Results
100-Meter Dash (University/College Prelims): 33. Alli Rogers 12.02 (ECAC). 100-Meter High Hurdles (University/College Prelims): 47. Christen Griffin 14.89. 4x100-Meter Relay (University/College Prelims): 26. Alli Rogers, Christen Griffin, Sheena Simpkins, Sherez Mohamed 47.78 (ECAC). 4x400-Meter Relay (University/College Prelims): 37. Octavia Clarkson, Tenica Roberts, Sherez Mohamed, Fey Adaramola 3:59.35.

Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

University of Albany's Wilfredo de Jesus Elias Posts One of Region's Top Marks in Hammer Throw at Duke Invite - UAlbany Sports 2010

Durham, N.C. - Junior thrower Wilfredo de Jesus Elias posted an IC4A qualifying mark in the hammer throw for the second time this spring to lead the UAlbany outdoor track and field teams at the Duke Invitational on Friday, April 2 at Wallace Wade Stadium.

de Jesus Elias, the reigning America East Conference champion as well as the school's record holder in the hammer throw, recorded a mark of 192-feet, 5-inches to place third overall and second among the collegians. Will Anger placed 10th in the event with a mark of 169-3, which was just shy of the IC4A standard by three feet. Erik Andersen had a personal-best toss of 154-4 in the javelin throw.

The women's team was led by a pair of javelin throwers who registered top-10 marks. Rebecca Power placed ninth in the event with a toss that sailed 118-1, while Ashley Lewis was 10th thanks to her heave which traveled 115-7. Power also finished 12th in the pole vault, clearing 10-11.75. The mark was a personal best for the sophomore and ranks second on the program's top-10 list behind current teammate Celine Cauderlier, who posted a mark of 11-9.75 at the France National Championships last summer. Rounding out the list of top performers was Brittany Eveleth, who set a personal record in the 400-meter intermediate hurdles by navigating the track in 1:04.74.

Select members of UAlbany's men's and women's outdoor track and field teams will wrap up competing at the Duke Invitational tomorrow morning and afternoon.


UAlbany Men's Results

200-Meter Dash (Developmental): 10. Alex Petit-Frere 22.55, 25. Germain Smith 23.35. 400-Meter Intermediate Hurdles: 41. Mohamed Kanu 59.40. 1,500-Meter Run (Seeded): 42. Ian Ellis 4:02.99. Hammer Throw: 3. Wilfredo de Jesus Elias 192-5 (IC4A), 10. Will Anger 169-3. Javelin Throw: 17. Erik Andersen 154-4.

UAlbany Women's Results

400-Meter Intermediate Hurdles: 13. Brittany Eveleth 1:04.74, 31. Pat McNish 1:08.94, 37. Kendra Adams 1:09.29. 1,500-Meter Run (Seeded): 44. Maureen Nweke 4:55.38. 3,000-Meter Run: 12. Miranda McConnell 10:54.46. Triple Jump: 13. Tiffany Sprenkels 37-3.25. Pole Vault: 12. Rebecca Power 10-11.75. Javelin Throw: 9. Rebecca Power 118-1, 10. Ashley Lewis 115-7.

Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

University of Albany's Gina Mason Belts Home Runs in Both Games of Softball's Doubleheader Sweep at Bryant - UAlbany Sports 2010

Smithfield, R.I. - Gina Mason hit a two-run homer in the sixth inning of the first game and blasted another home run in the final frame of the nightcap in leading UAlbany to a doubleheader sweep of Bryant in non-conference softball action on Thursday, April 1 at the Bryant Softball Complex. The Great Danes won the first game, 2-1, before taking the second by an 8-0 score in five innings due to the eight-run rule.

After rallying late to win the opener, UAlbany wasted no time getting on the scoreboard in the first inning of the nightcap. Kristine Bill hit a one-out single to left and was driven home two batters later on a double to center by Mason. The Great Danes padded their lead by scoring three more times after the first two outs were recorded in the third. Kat Smith hit an RBI single to the shortstop, and Kylie Apostolina, the team's only freshman starting in the game, drove in two more on a single to left.

The Great Danes added an insurance run in the top of the fourth to take a 5-0 lead. Bailey Van Deest hit a leadoff single to center to begin the inning. Jessica Bergin, who entered the game as a pinch runner, stole second and came home two plays later on a double to the gap in right center by Andrianna Walraven.

Bryant (3-21), which ended the day on an eight-game skid, had its best chance to score in the bottom of the fourth. The Bulldogs loaded the bases with only one out, but Marissa Powell got out of the jam by striking out Lindsay Martin and forcing Lauren McCart to fly out to Bergin in right.

The Great Danes put the game away by scoring three times in the top of the fifth. Michelle Connors drilled a leadoff double to left field, and Mason followed up with her second two-run homer of the afternoon on the next play. Liz Noto, who entered the game as a pinch hitter, doubled to right center to cap the scoring.

UAlbany's Powell hurled her first complete-game shutout of the season and eighth of her career to improve her record to 2-5. She had two strikeouts while issuing just one walk and allowing five hits. Bryant's Brittany Hart suffered the loss and fell to 2-4 this spring. She surrendered nine hits and six runs while striking out six in four innings pitched. Kelly Cocco gave up two runs and three hits in one inning of relief.

Leah McIntosh started game one in top form for the Great Danes by fanning four of the first six batters she faced. However, it was the Bulldogs that got on the board first in the fourth after both teams left the bases loaded an inning earlier. Ali Chouinard and Kate Murray each singled with one out before advancing an extra base on an illegal pitch. A groundout to short by Martin allowed Chouinard to score the game's first run.

UAlbany took the lead for good when Mason belted a two-run homer to left center in the top of the sixth. Walraven, who singled to left to start the inning, also scored on the play. McIntosh did not allow any hits the rest of the way, which allowed the Great Danes to hold on for the win.

UAlbany's McIntosh was credited with the victory and went the distance to improve her overall ledger to 4-2 this season. She matched her season high of 11 strikeouts while only yielding one run and four hits. She struck out the side on two occasions and only allowed one of the four hits to reach the outfield. Bryant's Jennifer Jacob fell to 1-5 after giving up seven hits, two runs and issuing one walk.

UAlbany (10-9), which has won eight of its last nine games, resumes America East Conference action this weekend on the road against Hartford. The teams are slated to play a doubleheader on Saturday, Apr. 3 at 1 p.m. and a single game on Sunday, Apr. 4 at 12 p.m.

Paw Prints: Leah McIntosh, UAlbany's record holder with 667 strikeouts, entered the week among the national leaders with a career strikeout ratio of 9.7 ... In addition to being tied for 25th on the all-time list at the NCAA Division I level, her mark was ranked sixth in the nation among active players and fifth among current seniors.

UAlbany 000 002 0 2 7 1
Bryant 000 100 0 1 4 1
UAlbany: Leah McIntosh and Kat Smith.
Bryant: Jennifer Jacob and Ashley Coon.

UAlbany 103 13 8 12 0
Bryant 000 00 0 5 0
(Game was called after five innings due to eight-run rule)
UAlbany: Marissa Powell and Kat Smith, Lindsey Stout (4).
Bryant: Brittany Hart, Kelly Cocco (5) and Ashley Coon.


Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

Moore Leads UAlbany Men's 4x800-Meter Relay Team to Fifth-Place Finish at Texas Relays

Austin, Texas - John Moore ran a split time of 1:50.7 on the second leg for the men's 4x800-meter relay which placed fifth behind four nationally-ranked schools to lead the UAlbany outdoor track and field teams at the 83rd Annual Clyde Littlefield Texas Relays on Thursday, April 1 at Mike A. Myers Stadium.

With strong winds gusting up to 25 miles per hour and producing slower times for all of the competitors, UAlbany's 4x800-meter relay team consisting of Aaron Lozier, Moore, Nick Santos and Tyler Fogarty was still able to easily meet the IC4A standard of 7:43.00 by hitting the tape in 7:33.10. The group, which was made up of four student-athletes from Capital Region high schools, only finished behind LSU, which posted a winning time of 7:30.25, Baylor, Arkansas and Texas A&M.

The Great Danes also had four members of the men's and women's programs competing in the 400-meter intermediate hurdles. Alan Nimblette came within a second of his best time ever in the event for the men's team, finishing in 55.88 seconds, while Rebecca Kelly fell just .17 shy of her personal-best mark by navigating the track in 1:03.00. Both Great Danes placed second in their heat.

Select members of UAlbany's men's and women's outdoor track and field teams will continue competing at the Texas Relays tomorrow morning, while other members of the Great Dane programs will participate in the Duke Invitational at Wallace Wade Stadium in Durham, N.C.

Paw Prints: The Texas Relays are currently the second-largest track and field meet in the country behind the Penn Relays ... The competition attracts as many as 50,000 spectators and 5,000 athletes each year ... UAlbany will compete in three men's and two women's relay events at the prestigious meet tomorrow ... The Great Dane men's program also has individuals entered in the 100-meter dash, 110-meter high hurdles and long jump.

UAlbany Men's Results
400-Meter Intermediate Hurdles (University Prelims): 41. Alan Nimblette 55.88, 51. Peter Rowell 57.03. 4x800-Meter Relay (University): 5. Aaron Lozier, John Moore, Nick Santos, Tyler Fogarty 7:33.10 (IC4A).

UAlbany Women's Results
400-Meter Intermediate Hurdles (University/College Prelims): 16. Rebecca Kelly 1:03.00, 52. Octavia Clarkson 1:13.18.


Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

UAlbany's Gherman Wins @ Tennis First Singles

Orlando, Fla. - Laura Bouet defeated Laine Mackey, 6-0, 5-7, 6-0, at No. 2 singles, while also teaming up with Suzan Lisenby for a win at second doubles to lead Missouri-Kansas City to a 5-2 win over UAlbany in Orlando on Thursday afternoon.

UAlbany's Livia Gherman was victorious at No. 1 singles, falling 4-6 in the first set before rallying for scores of 6-4 and 14-12 in the next two, defeating Eva Dalvai. Freshman Sarah Iannone also won her match at No. 6 singles with straight set scores of 6-3, 6-3 over Holly Davis. The Kangaroos earned four singles points with Bouet's three-set win over Mackey, followed by wins at third, fourth and fifth singles. Chelsea Horner posted a 6-4, 6-3 win over Susan Ma while Lisenby defeated Caitlin Crowley, 6-1, 6-2. Jillian Yakominich sealed up the singles points for UMKC with a 6-1, 6-1 win over Aubrey Brooks at No. 5 singles.

In doubles action, UAlbany claimed a win at the top position, as Gherman and Mackey defeated Dalvai and Horner, 8-4. However, the Kangaroos took the doubles point with wins in the other two matches. Bouet and Lisenby combined for an 8-5 win over Ma and Crowley, while Iannone and Brooks played strongly before falling to Yakominich and Jessica Ball at No. 3.

UAlbany will wrap up its spring break trip on Saturday with a match against Florida Atlantic.

Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information