Stephen F. Austin Blitzes Football, 59-14, in First Trip to State of Texas

Nacogdoches, Texas - Quarterback Jeremy Moses threw for 313 yards and three touchdowns and Grayln Crawford scored on a kickoff return and punt return in leading Stephen F. Austin to a 59-14 victory over UAlbany on Saturday, Sept. 11 before 9,483 fans at Homer Bryce Stadium. The Lumberjacks, who were playing their home opener, are ranked No. 10 by Sports Network and No. 12 in the FCS Coaches' Poll.

Stephen F. Austin (1-1) showed why they are a national top-10 program right from the start when Crawford raced 92 yards to the end zone with the opening kickoff. Ryan Epperson then ran for a two-point conversion off a faked point-after attempt.

The Great Danes closed the gap to 8-7 on their first offensive possession by marching 67 yards in 15 plays. Quarterback Dan Di Lella twice completed third-down passes, including a 24-yarder to tailback Tramaine Wilson that kept the series moving. Di Lella scored on fourth down from inside SFA's one on a quarterback sneak.

From there All-America quarterback Jeremy Moses led his team on a run of 31 unanswered points. The Walter Payton Award candidate threw for 265 yards and three scores in the half. He fired an 11-yard strike to Anthony Foster in the back of the end zone. Following a blocked punt the Caleb Nelson, the senior tossed a 6-yard TD pass by hitting Crawford with a lofted throw over the UAlbany cornerback for a 22-7 advantage.

The Lumberjacks, who won the Southland Conference championship and reached the NCAA FCS playoffs for the fifth time in their history last year, added Logan Barrett's 28-yard field goal to end a 25-point opening quarter. In the second quarter, Moses capped an 8-play, 86-yard drive with a 3-yard pass over the middle to Cordell Robinson for a touchdown. Linebacker Devin Ducote picked off a Di Lella pass with less than a minute left before the intermission and rumbled 18 yards to paydirt.

"I was impressed with their overall team speed," said UAlbany coach Bob Ford, whose team was meeting a top-10 FCS opponent for the sixth time. "Their quarterback has a quick release and is always on target. We had breakdowns on special teams. We were too aggressive on the opening kicked and didn't block the punt correctly."

In the third quarter, Romonte' Hampton's rushing and receiving keyed an eight-play scoring drive. The sophomore running powered his way through the middle on a 4-yard TD run on his team's first possession of the period. Hampton finished 57 rushing yards and caught four passes for 60 yards. Crawford then scored his second special teams touchdown when he appeared to be stopped in his tracks but then broke loose and picked his way up the sideline on a 72-yard jaunt for a 52-7 advantage. Crawford added seven receptions for 55 yards.

UAlbany put together a 12-play, 72-yard scoring sequence. Di Lella, who connected on 21 of 36 passes for 173 yards, completed six attempts during the drive, including a 26-yarder in the middle of the zone to Nick Hutcherson. Redshirt freshman Ben Miseikis bulled over the right side from 1-yard out on fourth down for the touchdown.

"We took a step back tonight," stated Ford, whose team has a bye next week. "But the good news is we have two weeks to get ready for our conference opener."

Paw Prints: UAlbany made its first trip to the state of Texas and was playing a Southland Conference opponent for the first time ... the Great Danes are now 4-14 against national top-25 programs ... ILB Chris Wilk made a career-high 10 tackles ... OLB Alex Helmer and CB Randall Exantus each recorded his first interception as collegians ... QB Dan Di Lella rushed for his first career touchdown in the opened quarter ... UAlbany head coach Bob Ford turned 73 on Sept. 11.

Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

University of Albany Volleyball Wins Over UAB at Middle Tennessee Tournament - UAlbany Sports 2010

Murfreesboro, Tenn. - Teresa Coppiellie recorded a match-high 17 kills and completed a double-double with 17 digs to lead UAlbany to a 3-1 win over UAB on the first day of play at the Middle Tennessee Invitational at Alumni Memorial Gym. The Great Danes won with scores of 25-23, 25-18, 19-25 and 25-21.

Casey Wright helped lead UAlbany with 16 kills and a .400 hitting percentage. Freshman setter Kaley Jacobson quarterbacked the Great Danes with 48 assists and 14 digs, while libero Laurie Gonzalez led all players with 30 digs defensively. UAlbany recorded ten total blocks, paced by Wright, who had six block assists, while Jacobson added three. All seven players for the Great Danes who saw action in the front row recorded at least one block assist in the match. UAlbany also tallied ten service aces, led by Gonzalez with three. Jacobson, Coppiellie and Wright finished with two each.

Sam Serley and Michelle Uzoh led UAB with 15 kills apiece, while Jordan McDonald recorded a double-double with 14 kills and 16 digs. Kate Morrell was the final Blazer with double-digit kills, totaling ten. Setter Alison Woods finished with 47 assists and 12 digs. Serley paced UAB (2-5) at the net with four block assists and totaled a .314 hitting percentage.

UAlbany (4-3) will return to action on Saturday, taking on Arkansas and host Middle Tennessee at 1 p.m. and 5 p.m., respectively


Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

Lyle Thompson To Play HS Senior Year at Salmon River

"Salmon River lacrosse just acquired the top attacker in the country, according to InsideLacrosse.com

Lyle Thompson, the brother of Miles who will play for the University at Albany this year, is transfering to play his senior season for the Shamrocks.

Thompson played for Salmon River in eighth and ninth grade before transfering to LaFayette. He comes back to reunite with Iroquois teammate Seth Oakes, Ky Tarbell and Dalston Day. All are considered top prospects and makes Salmon River a state title contender.

Thompson was a first-team Times All-North selection as a freshman before leaving for LaFayette."

http://www.watertowndailytimes.com/article/20100910/SPORTS02/309109947/-1/sports

UAlbany Women's Soccer Loses Close Battle to Big East Opponent Syracuse, 3-2

Albany, N.Y. - Tina Romagnuolo scored the gamewinner in the final minute of play to lead Syracuse to a 3-2 win over UAlbany in non-conference women's soccer action on Friday afternoon at Varsity Field.

After a scoreless first half, Albany took a 1-0 lead in the 53rd minute when forward Shayla Bergeron collected a cross in front of the net from Jess Baccaglini. Syracuse tied the game when Romagnuolo found the back of the net off a give and go with teammate Megan Bellingham in the 77th minute of play. Just two minutes later, Great Dane midfielder Rebecca Lee added a tally when her free kick attempt from the left outside of the box curved into the top right corner of the net just past Orange goalkeeper Brittany Anghel.

With just seven minutes left, the Orange would tie the game again when Bellingham used a free kick just outside of the box to slip past Great Dane goalkeeper Dani Britt. Romagnuolo would add her second goal of the game in the last minute of regulation play to secure the win, collecting a pass from the right side of the box shooting to her left past a diving Britt with just 50 seconds left on the clock.

Syracuse (2-3-2) held a 16-8 advantage in shots, as well as an 8-1 advantage in corner kicks. Britt, making her first start for the Great Danes, played all 90 minutes in the net, making six saves. Anghel also went the distance, making four saves for the Orange.

UAlbany (3-3-0) will return to action on Sept. 15 when they travel to Colgate for a match at 4 pm.

Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

Football Travels to State of Texas for First Time in Matchup with No. 10/12 Stephen F. Austin

Nacogdoches, Texas - UAlbany will meet a nationally-ranked team when the Great Danes travel to Stephen F. Austin on Saturday, Sept. 11. Kickoff is 7:00 p.m. Eastern (6 p.m. Central) at Homer Bryce Stadium, a 14,575-seat facility. The Lumberjacks are ranked No. 10 by Sports Network and No. 12 in the FCS Coaches' Poll. Fans can listen to the game on Fox Sports 980, WOFX-AM, with Rodger Wyland handling the play-by-play coverage.

Stephen F. Austin is coming off the second-biggest single-season turnaround at the NCAA Division I FCS level. The Lumberjacks, who opened last week with FBS opponent Texas A&M, finished with a 10-3 record, won the Southland Conference championship and advanced to the NCAA quarterfinals one year ago. J.C. Harper was the Southland Coach of the Year and runner-up for national honors.

Quarterback Jeremy Moses, the school's all-time passer, is on the Walter Payton Award Watch List as the nation's top player. The Southland Conference Co-Player of the Year threw for 4,124 yards and 40 touchdowns as a junior. Moses, a consensus preseason All-America selection, has 18 career 300-yard passing games.

Linebacker Jabara Williams is one of the country's premier defenders and a candidate for the Buck Buchanan Award. Williams, who plays in a 4-3 defensive scheme, had 113 tackles and seven pass break-ups last season. He was named Sports Network second-team All-American.

After knocking off Maine on Sept. 2, UAlbany is traveling to the state of Texas for the first time. The Great Danes' defense allowed 246 total yards and 11 first downs in recording their ninth shutout as an FCS program in the opener. Defensive ends Eddie Delaney and Marc Wargo each had five tackles, while safety Jake Ciccarello had an interception that led to a first-quarter field goal. Andrew Smith rushed for a career-high 129 yards on 27 carries.

Paw Prints: The Great Danes are 4-13 all-time against NCAA programs ranked in the national top-25 ... UAlbany is playing a top-10 team for the sixth time and first since Sept. 20, 2008 ... UAlbany coach Bob Ford will celebrate his 73rd birthday on Saturday ... Ford ranks sixth among the FCS all-time leaders with 242 career victories.


Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

Former University of Albany Star Dave Brock Selected in National Lacrosse League Draft's First Round - UAlbany Sports 2010

Toronto, Ontario - Former University at Albany standout Dave Brock was chosen in the first round of the National League Lacrosse Entry Draft by the Boston Blazers on Wednesday, Sept. 8 at Westin Harbour Castle. Brock, the seventh overall selection, was also taken in the sixth round of the Major League Lacrosse Collegiate Draft last June.

"It's an honor to be selected in the first round; there a lot of good players out there," said Brock, who became the fourth UAlbany player to be drafted in the NLL's first round. "(UAlbany coach) Scott Marr helped get me to this point. He is a very knowledgeable and positive guy. He helped me on and off the field and how to become a leader and a better player."

Brock earned second-team All-America East Conference honors during the 2010 campaign. Positioned as both an attackman and midfielder in his two-year UAlbany career, Brock was also named to last year's America East all-championship squad after leading his team to the conference tournament final. He ranked sixth in the conference in goals (2.12 pg) and 10th in scoring at 2.50 points per game.

Brock led the Great Danes in scoring with 34 goals and six assists to share the team's MVP award, plus had a .301 shooting percentage and 37 ground balls. A native of Burlington, Ontario, Brock netted three or more goals six times as a senior, including a career-high four against league opponents Hartford and UMBC. He accounted for a career-best four points against five teams.

UAlbany's Corey Small was taken with the first round's ninth pick in last year's NLL Draft. Merrick Thomson and Frank Resetarits were first-round choices in the 2007 NLL Draft. Mike Ammann, Steve Ammann and Jordan Levine were all selected in 2008.

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UAlbany's National Lacrosse League Draft Selections
Frank Resetarits (2007, San Jose-1st)
Merrick Thomson (2007, Philadelphia-1st)
Mike Ammann (2008, New York-5th)
Steve Ammann (2008, New York-3rd)
Jordan Levine (2008, Philadelphia-4th)
Corey Small (2009, Edmonton-1st)
Dave Brock (2010, Boston-1st)


Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

University of Albany Athletics Weekly Video Highlights - UAlbany Sports 2010

Football - Coach and Player Interviews


Field Hockey win vs Hofstra


Field Hockey win vs Virginia Commonwealth


Men's Soccer win vs St Francis


Women's Soccer win vs UMass

University of Albany FCS Football TB/QB Andrew Smith Named Northeast Conference Offensive Player of the Week - UAlbany Sports 2010

Somerset, N.J. - University at Albany's Andrew Smith has been selected Northeast Conference Offensive Player of the Week, as announced by the conference office on Tuesday, Sept. 7. The sophomore, who is positioned at tailback, quarterback and kick returner, played a key role in a 3-0 upset victory against Maine on Sept. 2. UAlbany won its season opener for the first time since 2006.

Smith rushed for a career-high 129 yards on 27 carries. He ran four straight times for 29 yards to help run out the final three minutes and 12 seconds of the clock. He also carried the ball on four consecutive plays for 17 yards to set up Herb Glass' field goal in the first quarter. Smith is tied for 12th nationally among the FCS leaders in rushing.

A native of Schenectady, N.Y., Smith accounted for 150 all-purpose yards at Maine, his second-highest total as a collegian. His first start at the collegiate level could have been even a bigger day, but his 47-yard touchdown run in the third quarter was called back due to a holding penalty.

Paw Prints: UAlbany recorded its fourth win in 16 games against Colonial Athletic Association opponents ... the CAA has produced four national champions since 2000 ... the Great Danes posted their ninth shutout at the NCAA Division I FCS level by holding Maine to 246 yards and 11 first downs ... Stephen F. Austin is ranked No. 10 by Sports Network and No. 12 in the FCS Coaches' Poll ... the Lumberjacks won last year's Southland Conference championship and reached the NCAA FCS playoffs for the fifth time in the program's history ... SFA's Jeremy Moses is a consensus preseason All-America quarterback ... UAlbany is making its first trip to the state of Texas in the matchup with Stephen F. Austin ... the Great Danes are 4-13 all-time against NCAA FCS programs ranked in the national top-25 polls ... UAlbany opponents have 23 players who have made National Football League 53-man active rosters last weekend, including Joe Flacco (Baltimore & Delaware), Marques Colston (New Orleans & Hofstra), Miles Austin (Dallas & Monmouth), Hank Fraley (St. Louis & Robert Morris) and Victor Cruz (New York Giants & Massachusetts).


Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

University of Albany Field Hockey Ranked 18th in Kookaburra/NFHCA Division I National Coaches Poll - UAlbany Sports 2010

Albany, N.Y. - University at Albany has broken into the 2010 Kookaburra/NFHCA Division I National Coaches Poll, as announced by the National Field Hockey Coaches Association on Tuesday afternoon. The Great Danes, who were receiving votes in the preseason poll, jumped up to an 18th-place ranking after starting the season with a 3-0 record.

UAlbany has won all three of its games to start the season, claiming overtime home wins against Hofstra and Virginia Commonwealth at the Capital Land Classic Tournament, before defeating Bucknell, 3-2, over the weekend. Junior Christina Patrick scored both game-winning goals in the overtime contests, while freshman Daphne Voormolen recorded all three goals for the Great Danes against Bucknell.

UAlbany will return to action on Sunday, Sept. 12, taking on fourth-ranked Connecticut at Alumni Turf Field at 2 p.m.


Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

University of Albany's Daphne Voormolen Named America East Conference Field Hockey Rookie of the Week - UAlbany Sports

Cambridge, Mass. - University at Albany's Daphne Voormolen was named the America East Conference Field Hockey Rookie of the Week, as announced by the league office on Tuesday afternoon. Voormolen scored all three goals for the Great Danes in their 3-2 victory over Bucknell on Saturday.

Voormolen scored her first collegiate goal just four minutes into the game, tapping a shot into the goal after a scramble in front of the net. She then gave UAlbany a 2-0 advantage in the 14th minute, taking an assist from Corinne McConville on a penalty corner, knocking the ball out of the air and into the back of the cage. Voormolen added the final score for the Great Danes in the 44th minute. Teammate Alysia Hough made a long run down the field and shot the ball across the circle, where it bounced off the post and onto the stick of Voormolen, who shot the ball past Bucknell goalkeeper Sarah Zargarpour.

Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

University of Albany's Shayla Bergeron Named America East Women's Soccer Player of the Week - UAlbany Sports 2010

Cambridge, Mass. - Sophomore forward Shayla Bergeron has been named the America East Conference Women's Soccer Player of the Week, as announced by the league office on Tuesday, Sept. 7. A transfer from Duquesne University, Bergeron is being honored by the conference for the first time this season after leading the Great Danes to a perfect 3-0 record this past week.

Bergeron registered three goals, including two game winners, in two victories over Atlantic 10 Conference opponents. In the team's 3-2 victory over Temple on Friday, Bergeron became the first Great Dane to score twice in a single match since Rebecca Lee accomplished the feat on Oct. 26, 2008. The sophomore, who has scored over half of the team's goals this fall, put UAlbany on the board midway through the first half before netting the eventual game winner in the 52nd minute. Bergeron ended the week by scoring the lone goal midway through the first half in yesterday's 1-0 win over Massachusetts.

Through two weeks of play, Bergeron leads all America East Conference players in total goals (4) and points (8). She is also the only player in the conference to net two game-winning goals this season.

UAlbany (3-2) is off to its best five-game start and is riding its first three-game winning streak since upgrading to Division I status in 1999. The squad will look to conclude its four-game homestand with an unblemished record when it hosts Syracuse on Friday, Sept. 10 at 4 p.m.


Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

University of Albany Women's Soccer Beats Atlantic 10 Conference's UMass - UAlbany Sports 2010

Albany, N.Y. - Sophomore forward Shayla Bergeron netted her team-leading fourth goal of the season in the first half and freshman goalkeeper Dani Britt made four crucial saves in the second stanza to lead UAlbany to a 1-0 victory over Massachusetts on Monday, Sept. 6 at Varsity Field. With the victory, the Great Danes have now won three straight matches for the first time as a Division I program.

Massachusetts (1-2), which most recently defeated Vermont by a 4-0 decision, seized control early and fired six straight shots in the first 20 minutes. Blair Ferry had the match's first scoring chance when she dribbled around Great Dane goalkeeper Breanna Maggio and had a wide open look at an unprotected net. However, Casey Marks, who was named the player of the game, intercepted the ball and cleared it away before the freshman could get a shot off.

In the 23rd minute, UAlbany broke through with the only goal it needed on its first shot of the match. Maggie DeVerna sent in a through ball to Bergeron from the left side. The sophomore caught up to it and fired a laser that beat the UMass goalkeeper to the far post to put the hosts ahead.

UMass, which outshot UAlbany, 9-3, in the opening half, had another golden opportunity in the 31st minute. This time, Deanna Colarossi beat the Great Dane goalkeeper and attempted a shot that was on its way towards the back of the net. However, Kendra Harrell-Vigil dove in front of the ball and redirected it wide to force a corner kick.

With UAlbany clinging to a one-goal lead, Britt took over the goalkeeping duties in the second half and was tested with eight additional shots. The Minutewomen had two major scoring chances in the last six minutes, beginning with a corner kick taken by Kayla Austin. The freshman, who scored on a corner kick against Vermont, bent the ball and shot it towards the top of the net. However, Britt leaped up and made the save.

Shortly afterwards, Colarossi came in from the left side at Britt on a one-on-one breakaway and fired a hard shot to the far post. Once again, the freshman goalkeeper came up big and stuffed the ball from point-blank range. Ferry's attempt to pot the rebound was unsuccessful, and the Great Danes held on for the victory.

Maggio earned the win and made two saves on nine opportunities in the first half, while Britt, who was making her collegiate debut, stopped four of the eight shots she saw in the second for UAlbany. Cota turned away two of the nine shots she faced for UMass and suffered the loss.

UAlbany (3-2) concludes its four-game homestand on Friday, Sept. 10 when it hosts Syracuse at 4 p.m.

Paw Prints: UAlbany has won three matches in a row for the first time as a Division I program ... The team previously put together a five-game unbeaten streak from Sept. 5-16, 2007 ... A transfer from Duquesne, sophomore Shayla Bergeron has scored four of the team's seven goals this season and leads all America East players in the category ... She also had the eventual game winner in UAlbany's 3-2 victory over Temple ... Both of Bergeron's game-winning markers were set up by classmate Maggie DeVerna ... Dating back to last season's thrilling 1-0 double-overtime victory over UMass at Rudd Field, UAlbany has now won four of its last five matches against Atlantic 10 Conference opponents.


Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

2010 UAlbany FCS College Football Gameday @ SFA

University of Albany Football Championship Subdivision Football:


UAlbany FCS Football Homepage

UAlbany FCS Football Roster

UAlbany FCS Football Stats

UAlbany FCS Football Media Guide

UAlbany FCS Football Game Notes


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NEXT GAME

Date: Saturday, Sept 11, 2010
Time: 7pm
Opponent: Stephen F. Austin
Location: Nacogdoches, Texas
Facility: Homer Bryce Stadium
Directions
Tickets

Distance:
From Albany - 1657m
From Boston – 1735m
From NYC - 1536m


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2010 UAlbany FCS Football Schedule:

Thu, Sep 02 - UAlbany 3 Maine 0
Sat, Sep 11 Stephen F. Austin at Nacogdoches, Texas 7:00 p.m. EST
Sat, Sep 25 Duquesne * at Pittsburgh, Pa. 12:00 p.m.
Sat, Oct 02 Yale at New Haven, Conn. 12:00 p.m.
Sat, Oct 09 Saint Francis, Pa. * Albany, N.Y. 1:00 p.m.
Sat, Oct 16 Robert Morris * at Moon Township, Pa. 12:00 p.m.
Fri, Oct 22 Central Connecticut State * Albany, N.Y. 7:00 p.m.
Sat, Oct 30 Bryant * at Smithfield, R.I. 1:00 p.m.
Sat, Nov 06 Sacred Heart * at Fairfield, Conn. 1:00 p.m.
Sat, Nov 13 Wagner * Albany, N.Y. 1:00 p.m.
Sat, Nov 20 Monmouth Albany, N.Y. 1:00 p.m.


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Gameday Live Media Coverage:

FoxSports Radio - Great Dane Football
SFA Webcast
Channelsurfing - Check Listings


Pregame Media Coverage:

Big Purple Fans - Coach Ford Discusses Maine & Looks Ahead To Stephen F. Austin This Weekend

Big Purple Fans - UAlbany Fan Board


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Stephen F. Austin Football Championship Subdivision Football:


Stephen F. Austin Football Homepage

Stephen F. Austin Football Roster

Stephen F. Austin Football Game Notes

Stephen F. Austin Football Media Guide

Stephen F. Austin Football Stats


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2010 Stephen F. Austin Schedule:

09/04/10 Texas A&M 48 SFA 7
09/11/10 vs. Albany Nacogdoches, Texas 6:00 p.m. CT
09/18/10 at Northern Iowa Cedar Falls, Iowa 4:05 p.m. CT
09/25/10 vs. Lamar Nacogdoches, Texas 6:00 p.m. CT
10/09/10 at McNeese State Lake Charles, La. 7:00 p.m. CT
10/16/10 vs. Central Arkansas Nacogdoches, Texas 2:00 p.m. CT
10/23/10 vs. Sam Houston State Houston, Texas - 2:00 p.m. CT
10/30/10 vs. Texas State Nacogdoches, Texas 2:00 p.m. CT
11/06/10 at Nicholls Thibodaux, La. 4:00 p.m. CT
11/13/10 vs. Southeastern Louisiana Nacogdoches, Texas 2:00 p.m. CT
11/20/10 vs. Northwestern State Nacogdoches, Texas 2:00 p.m. CT


Homer Bryce Stadium:

University of Albany's Daphne Voormolen Scores Hat Trick to Lead Field Hockey to a 3-2 Road Win Over Bucknell - UAlbany Sports 2010

Lewisburg, Pa. - Freshman forward Daphne Voormolen scored all three goals for UAlbany to lead the Great Danes to a 3-2 win over Bucknell in non-conference field hockey action at Graham Field on Saturday afternoon. UAlbany has opened up the season with three straight wins for the second consecutive year.

Voormolen scored her first collegiate goal just four minutes into the game, tapping a shot into the goal after a scramble in front of the net. Christina Patrick gathered the ball first, slipping it to Voormolen in front of the cage for tally. Voormolen gave UAlbany a 2-0 advantage in the 14th minute, taking an assist from Corinne McConville on a penalty corner, knocking the ball out of the air and into the back of the cage. Bucknell cut the lead in half just before the halftime break, as Morgan Kauffman connected on a pass from Hannah Jones in the circle and slipped the ball past UAlbany goalkeeper Christine Hoffman.

Voormolen added the final score for the Great Danes in the 44th minute. Senior Alysia Hough made a long run down the field and shot the ball across the circle, where it bounced off the post and onto the stick of Voormolen, who shot the ball past Bucknell goalkeeper Sarah Zargarpour. The Bison attempted a late rally in the 58th minute, as Marci Richard scored on a penalty corner. The UAlbany defense held strong, keeping Bucknell at bay until the final horn.

The two teams were tied with 13 shots apiece, while UAlbany held a 6-3 advantage in penalty corners. Hoffman earned the win in the cage, making three saves, while Kristi Troch also stopped three shots for UAlbany in the cage. Zargarpour went the distance in net for Bucknell (0-3), making five saves for the Bison.

UAlbany (3-0) will return to action on Sunday, Sept. 12, hosting Connecticut at Alumni Turf Field starting at 2 p.m.


Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

University of Albany Men's Soccer Edges St. Francis, N.Y. in Home Opener, 2-1, for Second Straight Win - UAlbany Sports 2010

Albany, N.Y. - Milos Jankovic and Ian Peach each found the back of the net to help lead the University at Albany men's soccer team to a 2-1 victory over St. Francis, N.Y. in its home opener at Varsity Field on Saturday, Sept. 4. The Great Danes earned their second straight win to open the fall for the second time in three seasons.

Bo Jelovac had the first scoring chance for either team midway through the first half when he took a through ball from Anthony DeSalvo and went in all alone against Terrier goalkeeper Curtis Julien. However, Julien charged out and disrupted the play, forcing Jelovac into the corner. UAlbany's senior forward tracked down the loose ball, but his shot attempt was blocked and kicked out of bounds by a Terrier defender.

In the 39th minute, UAlbany took advantage of a better opportunity when it was awarded a penalty kick after DeSalvo got tripped up in the box. Milos Jankovic's shot beat Julien to the far left post, and the Great Danes carried the one-goal lead into the break.

The Great Danes doubled their lead in the 51st minute, scoring directly after another Terrier foul. David Pinto took a free kick and lobbed the ball into the box. After bouncing off of several players from both teams, Peach collected the ball and sent a laser from 10 yards away to the far post to give the hosts a 2-0 advantage. Pinto, who was named the team's player of the game, was credited with an assist on the play.

St. Francis, N.Y. (0-2), which dropped its season opener to 22nd-ranked Connecticut by a 2-0 decision on Wednesday evening, cut the lead in half in the 73rd minute when it earned a free kick from just outside the box on the right side. Robbie Weir crossed the ball to Adam Maabdi, who one-timed a hard shot to the near post for the squad's first goal of the season. The teams then combined for only three shots until the final whistle, allowing the Great Danes to hold on for the one-goal victory.

UAlbany's Adrian Foncette made six saves on 12 chances and was credited with his second straight win. Julien of St. Francis, N.Y. turned away 12 of the 17 shots he faced in the losing effort.

UAlbany (2-0) continues its four-game homestand on Wednesday, Sept. 8 when it hosts NJIT at 4 p.m.


Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

University of Albany Volleyball Wraps Up Florida Gator Tournament With 3-0 Win Over Bowling Green - UAlbany Sports 2010

Gainesville, Fla. - Casey Wright recorded a match-high 13 kills en route to her second all-tournament appearance of the season, leading UAlbany to a 3-0 sweep of Bowling Green in the finale of the Campus USA Credit Union Classic volleyball tournament hosted by Florida on Saturday afternoon. UAlbany swept the match with scores of 25-21, 25-21 and 27-25.

Wright hit .271 for the match while also recording nine total blocks, including two solos, for the Great Danes. Teresa Coppiellie recorded a double-double, as the second UAlbany player with double-digit kills, totaling 11 to go along with 12 digs. Freshman setter Kaley Jacobson notched her second career double-double of the assist-dig variety with 31 assists and 12 digs, while also tallying four block assists. Libero Laurie Gonzalez was the third player for UAlbany with 12 digs to pace the Great Danes defensively. Dunja Prgomet also had a strong all-around match with eight kills, nine digs and two block assists.

Danielle Tonyan and Paige Penrod led Bowling Green with 12 and 11 kills, respectively. Adding 10 digs and two block assists, Penrod was Bowling Green's selection to the all-tournament team. Laura Avila and Ashley Dunn both finished with double-doubles, as Avila totaled 20 assists and 13 digs with Dunn recording 12 assists and a team-high 15 digs. Bowling Green (1-6) was only able to manage three total blocks as a team, as UAlbany held the Falcons to a .162 hitting percentage for the match.

UAlbany (3-3) will return to action next weekend at the Middle Tennessee Invitational, where the Great Danes will take on UAB, Arkansas and the host Blue Raiders.

Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

University of Albany Cross Country Squads Sweep Team Titles at Monmouth XC Kick-Off for Third Straight Year - UAlbany Sports 2010

Lincroft, N.J. - Sophomore Alex Leuchanka won the men's individual title for the second straight season and freshman Kathryn Fanning placed second in the women's field to lead the UAlbany cross country teams to a clean sweep of the team titles at the Monmouth XC Kick-Off for the third straight year on Saturday, Sept. 4 at Thompson Park.

Leuchanka crossed the finish line first among 88 runners in 18:28.1 to lead the UAlbany men's team. He was closely followed by teammate Paul Lagno, who navigated the 6,000-meter course in 18:38.6. Ethan Clary placed fourth in 18:49.8, while transfer Chris Burke, who was an All-American and national champion at SUNY Delhi (6th, 19:00.1) and Sean Halpin (7th, 19:00.4) rounded out the team's top five.

Fanning, who began running cross country as a senior in high school, finished her first collegiate race with a runner-up finish among 78 competitors by hitting the tape in 14:20.0, which was less than two seconds behind the winner, to pace UAlbany's women's squad. She was directly followed by Emily Finnegan and Ada Lauterbach, who placed third and fourth with marks of 14:40.8 and 14:46.7, respectively, on the 4,000-meter circuit. Brianne Bellon (6th, 14:58.9) and Miranda McConnell (15:11) completed the top five for the squad.

The UAlbany cross country teams will be back in action on Saturday, Sept. 11 when they travel to Franklin Park to compete at the Boston College Invitational.


Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

University of Albany Women's Soccer Holds Off Temple, 3-2, for Second Straight Win; Bergeron Nets Two Goals - UAlbany Sports 2010

Albany, N.Y. - Shayla Bergeron netted two goals, including the eventual game winner, to help propel UAlbany to a 3-2 victory over Temple in non-conference women's soccer action on Friday, Sept. 3 at Varsity Field. The Great Danes, who held a 24-10 advantage in total shots, jumped out to a three-goal lead early in the second half and held off a late rally by the Owls to earn their second straight win.

UAlbany (2-2) got on the board first in the 23rd minute and never looked back. Chelsea DeVerna sent a through ball down to Bergeron, who went one-on-one against Owl goalkeeper Tara Murphy and beat her with a shot to the far post. The Great Danes continued to pressure Murphy throughout the rest of the stanza and kept their one-goal lead at the recess.

After outshooting the visitors by a 12-3 count in the first 45 minutes, UAlbany added two quick goals to take a commanding 3-0 advantage in the opening minutes of the second half. The hosts doubled their lead just 1:26 into the frame on a corner kick taken from the left side by Rebecca Lee. Lee's cross was sent inside the six through a mob of players from both teams and was headed in towards the far post by Casey Marks. It was the sophomore defender's first career goal. Five minutes later, Maggie DeVerna sent back a pass from just outside the six-yard box that was tracked down in the middle by Bergeron. The sophomore spinned around and took a diving shot that beat Murphy to the far post.

Temple (2-3), which most recently earned a 4-3 victory over Hartford, made a fierce attempt to rally by netting two goals just 1:23 apart. Stephanie Ferretti controlled the ball outside the box and sent in a cross to Jackie Krostek, who one-timed a shot past Great Dane goalkeeper Breanna Maggio in the 75th minute to put the Owls on the board. Shortly afterwards, Allicia Yurkovic took a pass from Krostek and fired a shot from 12 yards out to make it a one-goal game. However, that was the close as the Owls would come the rest of the way. Maggio stopped Niki Conn's shot attempt in the final minute to preserve the win.

UAlbany's Maggio made three saves on 10 chances to earn the victory. Temple's Murphy turned away six of the 24 shots she faced and suffered the loss.

The Great Danes, who have won three of their last four matches against Atlantic 10 Conference opponents, continue their four-game homestand when they host Massachusetts on Monday, Sept. 6 at 4 p.m. UAlbany earned a thrilling 1-0 double-overtime victory over the Minutewomen when the teams most recently met at Rudd Field last season.

Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

University of Albany Women's Soccer Holds Off Temple, 3-2, for Second Straight Win; Bergeron Nets Two Goals - UAlbany Sports 2010

Albany, N.Y. - Shayla Bergeron netted two goals, including the eventual game winner, to help propel UAlbany to a 3-2 victory over Temple in non-conference women's soccer action on Friday, Sept. 3 at Varsity Field. The Great Danes, who held a 24-10 advantage in total shots, jumped out to a three-goal lead early in the second half and held off a late rally by the Owls to earn their second straight win.

UAlbany (2-2) got on the board first in the 23rd minute and never looked back. Chelsea DeVerna sent a through ball down to Bergeron, who went one-on-one against Owl goalkeeper Tara Murphy and beat her with a shot to the far post. The Great Danes continued to pressure Murphy throughout the rest of the stanza and kept their one-goal lead at the recess.

After outshooting the visitors by a 12-3 count in the first 45 minutes, UAlbany added two quick goals to take a commanding 3-0 advantage in the opening minutes of the second half. The hosts doubled their lead just 1:26 into the frame on a corner kick taken from the left side by Rebecca Lee. Lee's cross was sent inside the six through a mob of players from both teams and was headed in towards the far post by Casey Marks. It was the sophomore defender's first career goal. Five minutes later, Maggie DeVerna sent back a pass from just outside the six-yard box that was tracked down in the middle by Bergeron. The sophomore spinned around and took a diving shot that beat Murphy to the far post.

Temple (2-3), which most recently earned a 4-3 victory over Hartford, made a fierce attempt to rally by netting two goals just 1:23 apart. Stephanie Ferretti controlled the ball outside the box and sent in a cross to Jackie Krostek, who one-timed a shot past Great Dane goalkeeper Breanna Maggio in the 75th minute to put the Owls on the board. Shortly afterwards, Allicia Yurkovic took a pass from Krostek and fired a shot from 12 yards out to make it a one-goal game. However, that was the close as the Owls would come the rest of the way. Maggio stopped Niki Conn's shot attempt in the final minute to preserve the win.

UAlbany's Maggio made three saves on 10 chances to earn the victory. Temple's Murphy turned away six of the 24 shots she faced and suffered the loss.

The Great Danes, who have won three of their last four matches against Atlantic 10 Conference opponents, continue their four-game homestand when they host Massachusetts on Monday, Sept. 6 at 4 p.m. UAlbany earned a thrilling 1-0 double-overtime victory over the Minutewomen when the teams most recently met at Rudd Field last season.

Paw Prints: Sophomore forward Shayla Bergeron, a transfer from Duquesne, became the first Great Dane to net two goals in a single match since Rebecca Lee scored twice against UMBC on Oct. 26, 2008 ... She was named the team's player of the game and has tallied three of UAlbany's six goals this season.


Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

University of Albany FCS Football Begins Season With 1st Shutout in 31 Years in 3-0 Opening Win Against Maine - UAlbany Sports 2010

Orono, Maine - Herb Glass booted a first-quarter field goal and the defense recorded its first shutout in an opener since 1979, as UAlbany started the season with a 3-0 victory over Maine before 7,610 fans on Thursday, Sept. 2 at hot and humid Alfond Stadium.

UAlbany held off a serious threat in the fourth quarter to record its first season-opening win since 2006. The Black Bears marched from their own 20-yard line behind the passing of reserve quarterback Chris Treister and fullback Jared Turcotte. But the Great Danes rose to the occasion at their own 30-yard line when cornerback Kareem Cooper stuffed a third-down run a and safety Jake Ciccarello pressured Treister into a incomplete pass on fourth down.

After the Great Danes were forced to punt, Treister threw two incomplete passes and then was forced from the pocket on fourth down where linebacker Dave Plungas wrapped him up. UAlbany's offense ran out the final three minutes and 12 seconds. Andrew Smith, a sophomore who plays both tailback and quarterback, ran four consecutive times. He finished with 129 yards on 27 attempts.

"It was hot for both teams and we played a lot of kids," said UAlbany coach Bob Ford, as the temperature hovered in the mid-80s at kickoff. "The defense was superb. They pressured the quarterback, knocked down passes and rose to every challenge. It was a great win."

In the first half, the Great Danes controlled the flow with their stingy defense and an offense that held on to the football for nearly 19 minutes. Following Ciccarello's interception on Maine's first possesion, UAlbany used 11 plays to set up Glass' 21 yard field goal. Dan Di Lella, who was making his first collegiate start at quarterback and completed 16 of 33 passes for 117 yards, kept the scoring sequence alive when he avoided two defenders to hook up with Ryan Kirchner on a fourth-down pass for 11 yards. Smith then lugged the ball four straight times deep into Maine territory.

Both teams had turnovers in a scoreless second quarter. Maine tailback Derek Session fumbled after catching a Smith slant pass and UAlbany safety Rob Cervini came up with the recovery. However, the Black Bears' defense stiffened and Glass' 49-yard field goal attempt was short. The Great Danes were on the move later in the period, but linebacker Donte Dennis sacked Di Lella near midfield on a blitz up the middle. After UAlbany's Smith fumbled with 1:17 left before the break, Maine went four-and-out on a drive that started at the visitors' 35-yard line.

"We had eleven guys flying to the ball on every play," stated defensive end Eddie Delaney, whose unit also stopped a fourth-down quarterback sneak at the UAlbany 34 with 1:53 remaining in the third quarter. "Everyone did their job. We rotated and kept people fresh due to the weather. They were a pretty physical team and we matched up to them."

UAlbany recorded its first shutout since the 2008 Gridiron Classic against Jacksonville by holding Maine to 246 total yards and forcing three turnovers. The Great Danes had an opportunity to take firm control in the third quarter, but tailback Tramaine Wilson fumbled on first-and-goal at the 6-yard line and Dennis made the recovery.

"Defense, defense, defense is all I can say," Smith explained. "We just need to do a better job of protecting the ball. Our offensive line did a good job and we able to get first downs and move the chains. Our defense was able to get rest."

Treister, who took over at quarterback to begin the second half for starter Warren Smith, threw for 63 on 7-of-17 pass attempts. Smith was just 5-of-13 through the air for 49 yards. Turcotte, who missed all of last season with an injury, added 80 yards on the ground for the Black Bears, who were receiving votes in both Division I FCS national polls.

Paw Prints: UAlbany posted its first shutout in a season opener since a 10-0 victory over Hobart in 1979 ... the Great Danes last won their opener in 2006, a 17-16 decision at Lehigh in the rain and mud ... UAlbany upped its record to 7-11 in Division I FCS games decided by three points or less ... the Great Danes started with a Colonial Athletic Association opponent for the seventh time in 12 FCS seasons ... Herb Glass moved into fourth place all-time with his 19th career field goal ... WR Ryan Kirchner posted career-highs in receptions (7) and receiving yardage (610) ... the Great Danes played in the lowest scoring game in the 38-year history of UAlbany football ... Springfield previously won a 6-0 contest against UAlbany on Oct. 3, 1986.


Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

UAlbany FCS Football Vs Maine Preview

UAlbany Heads North to Begin 38th Football Season in Opener Against CAA Opponent Maine

Orono, Maine - UAlbany kicks off its 2010 season against Colonial Athletic Association opponent Maine on Thursday, Sept. 2. Game time at Alfond Stadium is 7:07 p.m. Fans can listen to the game on Fox Sports 980-WOFX AM, with Rodger Wyland handing the play-by-play coverage.

The Black Bears, who return 17 starters from a squad that finished second in the CAA's North Division, have made five NCAA FCS playoff appearances in their history. Head coach Jack Cosgrove's club is receiving votes in both national polls. Warren Smith has earned the starting job at quarterback after passing for 1,695 yards and 12 touchdowns one year ago. Tailback Derek Session led the rushing attack with 479 yards and three scores. Fullback Jared Turcotte, who missed all of last season with an injury, was an All-America selection as a freshman.

Cornerback Steve Barker was a third-team All-CAA choice last year after accounting for 48 tackles, 10 pass break-ups and three interceptions. Donte Dennis, a junior inside linebacker, also received third-team all-conference recognition and led the team in tackles (106). Roverback Mark Masterson returns from a medical redshirt season. He had 68 tackles and seven pass break-ups as a junior.

In 2009, UAlbany finished second in the Northeast Conference standings. The Great Danes have won seven or more games in four consecutive seasons. Andy Sparano, a preseason All-NEC center, is among four returning offensive linemen. Andrew Smith is a triple threat on offense as a quarterback, tailback and receiver. Trevor Anderson, a first-team all-conference defensive tackle, leads a unit that has traditionally been tough against the run. Defensive end Eddie Delaney and cornerback Ross Bertrand, who has 105 career tackles, are also veterans. Herb Glass was a second-team All-NEC kicker as a sophomore.

"I think we are ready to play someone else besides ourselves," said UAlbany coach Bob Ford, who begins his 38th varsity season at the helm. "We draw up a pyramid of success and one of the blocks is ‘beat the odds', and Maine is one of those games in that category where we are a probable underdog. I think our team knows they can win, but now we have to go out there and play well."

Paw Prints: UAlbany begins its schedule on the road for the 10th time in 12 seasons at the NCAA Division I FCS level ... the Great Danes are opening with a Colonial Athletic Association opponent for the seventh time as a FCS program ... the Northeast Conference champion receives an automatic NCAA playoff berth for the first time in 2010.


Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

Chelsea DeVerna's Early Goal Leads University of Albany Women's Soccer Past Iona in Home Opener - UAlbany Sports 2010

Albany, N.Y. - Forward Chelsea DeVerna netted her first goal of the season and goalkeeper Breanna Maggio matched a Division I school record by registering her fourth career shutout to lead the UAlbany women's soccer team to a 1-0 victory over Iona in its home opener at Varsity Field on Wednesday, Sept. 1.

UAlbany (1-2), which won its home opener for the third straight season, got all the scoring it needed in the 15th minute. Chrissy Klepper tracked down a loose ball inside the box and sent in a cross from the left side. Chelsea DeVerna, who was last season's America East Conference Rookie of the Year, trapped the pass and rifled a shot that beat the Iona goalkeeper to the far post. Katie Grant had a good look at an open net and a chance to double the lead before the break, but she one-timed a shot that went just high of the goal.

The Great Danes had multiple chances to add to their lead late in the second half. Maggie DeVerna had a one-on-one breakaway against goalkeeper Jacquelyn Gates in the 84th minute, but the netminder made a diving save. Chelsea DeVerna collected the rebound and also had a chance to send the ball to the back of the net. However, her shot went wide.

Shayla Bergeron used her blazing speed to beat several players from both sides to a loose ball just minutes later, but her open look with Gates out of the net was turned away by a Gael defender. Defensively, the Great Danes successfully cleared away four corner kicks taken by Iona (1-4) in the last 45 minutes and only allowed the Gaels to attempt a minimal amount of their shots from inside the box to help secure the win.

UAlbany's Maggio made five saves on 11 chances to earn her first shutout victory of the season in net. Iona's Trista Rivera started the match and was credited with the loss after making one stop on 10 opportunities. She was replaced in the second half by Gates, who turned away four of the 12 shots she faced.

The Great Danes continue their four-game homestand on Friday, Sept. 10 when they host Temple of the Atlantic 10 Conference at 4 p.m.
Paw Prints: UAlbany won its third straight home opener at Varsity Field ... The squad also defeated Youngstown State, 2-1, in 2008 and Iona by a 2-0 decision last season ... Sophomore goalkeeper Breanna Maggio matched Cate Crenson's Division I school record for career shutouts ... Crenson recorded four clean sheets during the 2009 season.

Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

Foncette Makes Nine Saves In University of Albany Mens Soccer's Win In Season Opener - UAlbany Sports 2010

Fairfield, Conn. - Forwards Bo Jelovac and David Hawksworth each found the back of the net and goalkeeper Adrian Foncette made nine saves to lead UAlbany to a 2-0 road victory over Fairfield in the season opener for both teams on Wednesday, Sept. 1 at Lessing Field.

UAlbany broke through with the first goal of the match in the 28th minute. Jelovac, who was the Great Danes' top scorer last season, received a long pass from Anthony DeSalvo and blasted a shot past goalkeeper Michael O'Keefe to give the visitors a one-goal lead which they would carry into the break.

Fairfield (0-1), which was picked second in the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference Preseason Coaches' Poll, peppered Foncette with shots throughout the second half. However, the junior came away with every save he had to make to keep the Stags off the board. After the hosts had fired 10 shots at Foncette in the stanza, including one which was headed for the top corner of the net and punched away by the Great Dane goalkeeper at the last moment, Hawksworth put the match away by scoring his second career goal in the 89th minute. Team captain Shaun Kane charged down the sideline and centered a cross to the sophomore forward, who beat a defender before pounding the ball into the net shortly before the last whistle.

Foncette turned away nine of the 15 shots he faced for UAlbany to earn his sixth career shutout. Fairfield's O'Keefe made two stops on six opportunities in the losing effort.

UAlbany (1-0), which won its season opener for the third time in four seasons, begins a four-game homestand when it welcomes St. Francis, N.Y. of the Northeast Conference to Varsity Field on Saturday, Sept. 4 at 1 p.m.


Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

University of Albany's Wright and Jacobson Earn First America East Volleyball Weekly Honors - UAlbany Sports 2010

Cambridge, Mass. - University at Albany's Casey Wright, a junior middle hitter, and Kaley Jacobson, a freshman setter, earned the first America East Conference Volleyball weekly awards of the season, as announced by the league office on Monday afternoon. Wright was chosen conference player of the week while Jacobson was the rookie of the week recipient after leading the Great Danes to a 2-1 record on the first weekend of play.

Wright averaged 4.30 kills and 1.60 blocks as well as a .456 hitting percentage, which puts her at the top of the league in all three categories. As a member of the all-tournament team at Clemson's Big Orange Bash, Wright also recorded four service aces. She started off the weekend with a career-high 21 kills against Tennessee Tech to go along with a .514 hitting percentage and six total blocks. On Saturday, Wright totaled 13 kills with a .600 hitting percentage and another six blocks before wrapping up the tournament with nine kills and four blocks against the host Tigers. Seven of her 16 total blocks were of the solo variety.

Jacobson saw action in all three matches at the Big Orange Bash, averaging 8.89 assists and 1.78 digs per set. She also recorded three service aces and four block assists in her collegiate debut. She totaled 24 assists, three digs and two block assists in the opening win over Tennessee Tech and followed up with a 30-assist, five-dig performance against Jacksonville. Jacobson completed the weekend with 26 assists, eight digs and one service ace against Clemson.

Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

University of Albany Field Hockey Records Second OT Win with 1-0 Defeat of Hofstra at Capital Land Classic - UAlbany Sports 2010

Albany, N.Y. - Christina Patrick scored her second overtime goal in as many days to lead UAlbany to a 1-0 win over Hofstra on Saturday afternoon at Alumni Turf Field. Sunday was the conclusion of the 2010 Captial Land Classic hosted by the Great Danes.

After a scoreless regulation, the teams went to the extra period, UAlbany's second overtime game of the season. With just over five minutes to play, Patrick dribbled into the circle with a one-on-one with Hofstra goalkeeper Amanda Heyde. Coming in from the right, Patrick dodged left to pull Heyde out of the cage and slipped the ball into the lower right corner to end the game.

Both teams had scoring opportunities late in the game, but neither goalkeeper would yield to the opposing offense. UAlbany's Kristi Troch made five saves in just over 48 minutes of action, while Heyde stopped seven shots from the Great Danes in a complete-game effort for Hofstra (0-2). Starter Christine Hoffman stopped one shot in the first half for UAlbany. The Great Danes held a slight 14-11 advantage in shots, and led 4-2 on penalty corner opportunities.

UAlbany (2-0) on Sept. 4, visiting Patriot League opponent Bucknell at 1 p.m.


Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

UAlbany Splits Matches with Jacksonville and Clemson at Big Orange Volleyball Bash

Clemson, S.C. - Casey Wright finished with 22 kills and 10 total blocks as UAlbany split matches with Jacksonville and Clemson on the second day of the Tigers' Big Orange Bash. The Great Danes defeated Jacksonville in straight sets with scores of 25-22, 25-16 and 25-19, earlier in the day before falling in three sets to Clemson with scores of 25-18, 25-20 and 25-21.

Wright paced the Great Danes against Jacksonville, finishing with a match-high 13 kills to go along with six total blocks and two service aces, while hitting .600. Teresa Coppiellie added eight kills and 11 digs, while libero Laurie Gonzalez led all players with a match-best 24 digs. Freshman setter Kaley Jacobson totaled 30 assists and five digs. The Great Danes recorded six service aces and nine total blocks as a team.

Kathryn Kane led Jacksonville with eight kills and nine digs. Setter Kendall Courtney finished with 27 assists and five digs, while Ashley August recorded 10 digs for the Dolphins. Jacksonville was held to a .096 hitting percentage and managed just four total blocks in the match.

Wright, who was named to the all-tournament team, led the team against Clemson with nine kills and four blocks. Jacobson finished with 26 assists and eight digs while Gonzalez, who also earned all-tournament team honors, totaled a team-high 14 digs. Sophomore Gabby Whitworth also finished with double-digit digs, recording 10 in the match.

Clemson (3-0) was paced by tournament MVP Sandra Adeleye who totaled 11 kills in the final match of the weekend. Serenat Yaz finished with a double-double of 10 kills and 12 digs, while the Tigers were led defensively by Cansu Ozdemir with a match-high 17 digs. Setter Lacy Hayes finished with 24 assists, eight kills and seven digs. Clemson had 10 total blocks as a team, led by Brooke Kohler, who recorded seven block assists.

UAlbany (2-1) will return to action next weekend at the Campus USA Credit Union Invite, hosted by Florida.

Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

University of Albany Field Hockey Opens Season With 3-2 Overtime Win Over Virginia Commonwealth - UAlbany Sports 2010

Albany, N.Y. - Christina Patrick took a rebound off her own shot and found the back of the cage to lead UAlbany to a 3-2 overtime win over Virginia Commonwealth in the Great Danes' season opener on Saturday afternoon at Alumni Turf Field. The game was the first of the Capital Land Classic hosted by UAlbany this weekend.

UAlbany opened the scoring in the first half with a goal by Nina Walters in the 11th minute. Walters deflected a shot from Suzy Clephane off a penalty corner to put the Great Danes on top. VCU tied the game at 1-1 just before halftime as Kelsey Scherrer and Emilie Soares capitalized on a two-on-one opportunity with UAlbany goalkeeper Christine Hoffman. Soares handed the ball off to Scherrer, who found the back of the cage at 27:16.

UAlbany came out of the halftime break and broke the tie in the 45th minute when Alysia Hough took a one-on-one opportunity with VCU keeper Erin Jablonski and took a shot into the lower left corner of the cage. With just over ten minutes left to play, the Rams' Chelsea Hill got UAlbany goalkeeper Kristi Troch to come out of the cage, and took a shot from the top right of the circle to knot the game at 2-2. Patrick ended the game just six minutes into the extra period, as she gathered her own rebound off Jablonski's pads and found the lower right corner of the cage.

The Great Danes outshot the Rams, 21-10, and held a 9-4 advantage in penalty corners. Hoffman made one save as the UAlbany starter, while Troch made four stops in the second half and overtime period. Jablonski went the distance for VCU, making six saves.

UAlbany (1-0) will return to action on Sunday, as they take on Hofstra at noon. VCU (0-1) will face Boston University in the second game of the day at 2:30 p.m. Boston U. (1-0) defeated Hofstra (0-1) in Saturday's second match-up at Alumni Turf Field.

Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

University of Albany Volleyball Opens 2010 Season With Win Over Tennessee Tech at Clemson Tournament - UAlbany Sports 2010

Clemson, S.C. - UAlbany wins 3-1 over Tennessee Tech in the 2010 season opener at Clemson's Big Orange Bash. The Great Danes posted scores of 25-20, 26-24, 25-27 and 25-15.

After playing a close-matched start of the first set, UAlbany pulled away to a 12-9 lead on a Tennessee Tech attack error. The Great Danes continued to build a lead with back-to-back kills by Brooke Stanley, followed by a service ace by the senior setter to pull ahead, 15-10. Tennessee Tech fought back to pull within 16-15 after a kill by Elise Robertson and a UAlbany attack error. A kill by Traci Vandegrift and a block by Casey Wright and Gabby Whitworth swung the momentum back in the Great Danes' favor. Consecutive kills by Teresa Coppiellie put UAlbany on top, 20-16, but Tennessee Tech battled back to pull within a point. The Great Danes got kills from Wright and Coppielle before taking advantage of a Golden Eagle attack error and a Wright service ace to end the set.

UAlbany jumped out to an early lead in the second set as well, getting up, 5-3, on a kill by Dunja Prgomet before Tennessee Tech tied the set at 5-5 with a kill and service ace from Natalie Penrod. The Great Danes would not relinquish their lead, however, getting ahead 10-6 on kills by Coppielle and Wright, forcing the Golden Eagles to take a timeout. UAlbany started to cruise, pulling ahead, 17-10, on three straight kills. However, Tennessee Tech would not fade, and fought back to tie the set at 19-19 before taking its first lead of the set on a UAlbany attack error. The Great Danes got to set point on a kill by Vandegrift, but the Golden Eagles took advantage of a blocking and attacking error to keep the match alive. Vandegrift would again set up set point for UAlbany, and a ball handling error by Tennessee Tech gave the Great Danes a 2-0 lead in the match.

The teams played a back-and-forth third set, with neither team getting ahead by more than three points at a time. UAlbany was ahead, 17-14, before Tennessee Tech rallied to tie the match at 18-18 on a Penrod kill. The Great Danes were able to get up by four points at 22-18 on a Golden Eagle attack error, but Tennessee Tech would once again battle back to tie the set. UAlbany used a Tennessee Tech service error, followed by a kill by Prgomet to get to match point, but back-to-back kills by Penrod and Leah Meffert tied the set up once more. The teams exchanged points before Tennessee Tech got its first set point of the match, and a Meffert kill sealed the set win for the Golden Eagles.

UAlbany rolled to the fourth set win, building up a 13-5 lead on a service ace by Abbey Wexel. The Great Danes would score four straight points, including back-to-back kills by Wright, to take a 19-9 advantage and force Tennessee Tech to take a timeout. The Golden Eagles regrouped to score two points, but UAlbany continued to cruise, getting a kill from Prgomet before she teamed up with Vandegrift for a block to put the Great Danes ahead, 21-11. The teams exchanged points, and Coppiellie gave UAlbany match point with a kill. Robertson tried to keep the Golden Eagles in the game with a kill, but Wright finished off the match on the next volley.

Wright led all players with 21 kills, and added six total blocks with a .531 hitting percentage. Coppiellie added 13 kills, while Prgomet and Vandegrift also posted double-digit numbers with 12 and 10 kills, respectively. Stanley finished with 27 assists, five kills and eight digs, while Laurie Gonzalez paced the team defensively with 19 digs. Meffert led Tennessee Tech (0-1) with 16 kills and 14 digs, while Penrod added 12 kills. Setter Melanie Culp also recorded a double-double with 41 assists and 10 digs, and Robertson led all players with 15 digs.

UAlbany (1-0) will return to action on Saturday with a match against Jacksonville at 10 a.m. before closing out the tournament against host Clemson at 6 p.m.

Quarterback Dan Di Lella Taking Aim; UAlbany FCS Football Ends Second Week of Preseason

Albany, N.Y. - It's been a three-year period of both preparation and waiting to get to this point for University at Albany quarterback Dan Di Lella. The 6-foot-5 junior has toiled on the practice fields while watching Vinny Esposito lead the Great Danes to a pair of Northeast Conference championships. Now as preseason moves along, it may be Di Lella's turn at the controls.

"Patience is a virtue for a reason," said Di Lella, who on Saturday completed 10 of 16 passes for 82 yards and added 36 more on the ground in UAlbany's second intrasquad scrimmage. "Since the last play at Wagner (last year), I have been getting ready. To be finally able to take that first snap has been my light at the end of the tunnel."

Di Lella has not wrapped up the starting quarterback position and continues to battle redshirt freshman Buddy Leathley. But he looked comfortable in his squad's first series when he connected on 5-of-6 through the air in leading the first team downfield in a productive offensive set.

"I trust our line, running backs and receivers," offered Di Lella, who threw just four passes during the 2009 campaign. "We were fluid (in the first series) and I was able to get the ball into the playmakers' hands."

Although head coach Bob Ford admits that Di Lella pulled away and opened up a gap on the depth chart after the Great Danes' first preseason scrimmage one week ago, there is still room for improvement.

"I've worked hard," Di Lella explained. "I am playing with confidence and trying to make the plays you are supposed to, whether it's the right run check or getting the ball to a certain receiver."

Di Lella's metamorphosis continues when the Great Danes are back for two-a-days on Monday.

Paw Prints: UAlbany's matchup with defending Northeast Conference champion Central Connecticut State at University Field has been moved to Friday, Oct. 22 at 7:00 p.m. ... the NEC contest will air on the MSG Network and Fox College Sports ... QB Buddy Leathley completed 10 of 17 passes for 48 yards in Saturday's preseason scrimmage and threw a 2-yard touchdown in a goal line situation ... WR Ryan Kirchner was the top receiver with four catches for 46 yards ... freshmen Jake Meek and Will Fiacchi fired TD passes during offense's red-zone series ... Meek hit WR Jameel Gay for 13 yards and Fiacchi hooked up with TB Everett Tune on a 19-yard touchdown ... DE Eddie Delaney had six tackles and one sack to lead the defense ... ILB Dave Plungas made four hits, including three unassisted, and picked off a pass ... CB Nick Crockett (6 tackles), OLB Chris Blais (4 tackles), S Jake Ciccarello (4 tackles, 1 PBU) and CB Leon Saddler (4 tackles, 1 PBU) were also active on the field.

Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information