No. 4 UConn Outlasts No. 16 UAlbany, 1-0, in Non-Conference Field Hockey

Storrs, Conn. - A goal in the 61st minute of play would give No. 4 Connecticut the go-ahead, 1-0, over No. 16 University at Albany as the Great Danes suffer their second loss on the season.

For the Huskies, Marie Elena Bolles recieved a pass from Ali Blankmeyer late in the second stanza to put away the games lone goal. Bolles had two shots on goal in the game.

The Great Danes took eight shots in the match, but none would hit the mark. Corrine McConville had a team-high with four. UAlbany had a 7-2 penalty corner advantage over UConn.

"Our team played very well against a top opponent in the nation today," said UAlbany Head Coach Phil Sykes. "We were playing good enough to win, but couldn't capitialize on key opportunities. At this time in the season I'm excited about the direction we are heading and our style of play."

Between the pipes, UAlbany's Kristi Troch made three saves in the loss, playing all 70 minutes. Huskie goalkeeper, Sarah Mansfield recorded her first shutout of the season in today's game.

UAlbany will return home tomorrow at Alumni Turf Field for a 2:00 p.m. match with Yale University.


Courtesy: UAlbany Athletics

UAlbany Announces Men's & Women's Basketball Schedules; Big Purple Growl on Feb. 4th

Albany, N.Y. - University at Albany Vice President and Director of Athletics Lee McElroy announced on Wednesday, Sept. 7 the school's men's and women's basketball schedules for the 2011-12 season. The America East Conference has released the entire league schedule for all nine member institutions. The conference's men's and women's championship tournaments will be held at the University of Hartford for the third consecutive year. The Chase Family Arena will serve as the venue for both tournaments on March 1-4.

UAlbany will host the 15th annual Big Purple Growl at SEFCU Arena on Saturday, Feb. 4th. The school's Winter Homecoming featured a crowd of 4,000-plus for the seventh season in a row last year. Big Purple Growl will feature a men's and women's doubleheader against America East opponent Stony Brook. UAlbany's basketball programs will also play a non-conference doubleheader on Sunday, Nov. 27.

The UAlbany men start their schedule on the road against a Big East Conference team for the third time in the last four years with a matchup at Pittsburgh on Friday, Nov. 11. The Panthers made their 10th consecutive NCAA Tournament appearance last year, advancing to the third round and finishing with a 28-6 record. In addition, UAlbany meets an Atlantic Coast Conference opponent for the fifth time in the last six seasons with a trip to Maryland's Comcast Center, a 17,950-seat facility. Mark Turgeon, who has led three Division I programs to a combined 250 wins and five NCAA Tournaments, is in his first season as head coach.

In the Dick's Sporting Goods NIT Season-Tip-Off, UAlbany faces Ivy League member Brown in the opening round on Monday, Nov. 14 as part of a doubleheader at Syracuse's Carrier Dome. The SU Orange, who reached the NCAA with a 27-win campaign last year, squares off with Manhattan in the other contest. The NIT's third and fourth rounds are slated for Nov. 21-22.

UAlbany begins America East regular-season play against Hartford on Monday, Jan. 2 at SEFCU Arena. The Great Danes host defending conference champion Boston University of Monday, Feb. 6. The America East TV package and the Time Warner Cable broadcast schedule will be announced at a later date.

The women's basketball program begins a 16-game America East schedule on the road against defending league champion Hartford on Monday, Jan. 2. Hartford makes the return trip to the Capital Region on Jan. 28. The Great Danes tangle with UMBC in the conference home opener at SEFCU Arena Wednesday, Jan. 4.

The Great Danes open up the 2011-12 season at Fordham on Nov. 11. The home slate begins on Sunday, Nov. 13 with UAlbany's second consecutive Atlantic 10 Conference opponent as LaSalle comes to SEFCU Arena. The Great Danes then embark on a three-game road swing that is highlighted by a matchup with highly-regarded Iowa. The Hawkeyes finished with a 22-9 record and advance to the NCAA Tournament one year ago. UAlbany has previously met Wisconsin and Indiana from the Big Ten Conference.

UAlbany will make its second appearance in Florida International's Sun and Fun Classic. The Great Danes, who last played in the tournament during the 2003-04 season, face the host school on Dec. 29 and Auburn or Charlotte in the consolation/championship round on Dec. 30. In addition, the Great Danes make the trip to downtown Albany's Times Union Center on Dec. 3 to take on crosstown-rival Siena. In a non-league doubleheader with the men on Nov. 27, UAlbany faces St.
Francis, N.Y. in the first game.

*********

2011-12 Men's Basketball Schedule
Nov. 11 (Fri.), at Pittsburgh
Nov. 14 (Mon.), Brown+
Nov. 15 (Tue.), Syracuse or Manhattan+
Nov. 21 (Mon.), NIT Season Tip-Off
Nov. 22 (Tue.), NIT Season Tip-Off
Nov. 25 (Fri.), Navy
Nov. 27 (Sun.), Fairleigh Dickinson
Dec. 5 (Mon.), at Siena
Dec. 7 (Wed.), Colgate
Dec. 17 (Sat.), at Cornell
Dec. 19 (Mon.), at St. Francis, N.Y.
Dec. 23 (Fri.), Dartmouth
Dec. 28 (Wed.), at Maryland
Dec. 31 (Sat.), at Mount St. Mary's
Jan. 2 (Mon.), Hartford*
Jan. 5 (Thu.), at UMBC*
Jan. 8 (Sun.), at Stony Brook*
Jan. 11 (Wed.), New Hampshire*
Jan. 14 (Sat.), Maine*
Jan. 16 (Mon.), at Boston U.*
Jan. 19 (Thu.), at Vermont*
Jan. 25 (Wed.), Binghamton*
Jan. 28 (Sat.), at Hartford*
Feb. 1 (Wed.), UMBC*
Feb. 4 (Sat.), Stony Brook* (BPG)
Feb. 6 (Mon.), Boston U.*
Feb. 9 (Thu.), at New Hampshire*
Feb. 11 (Sat.) ,at Maine*
Feb. 15 (Wed.), Vermont
Feb. 23 (Thu.), at Binghamton*

+NIT Season Tip-Off (Syracuse, N.Y.)
BPG - Big Purple Growl

2011-12 Women's Basketball Schedule
Nov. 11 (Sat.), at Fordham
Nov. 13 (Mon.), La Salle
Nov. 16 (Wed.), at Iowa
Nov. 19 (Sat.), at Brown
Nov. 22 (Tue.), at Toledo
Nov. 27 (Sun.), St. Francis, N.Y.
Nov. 30 (Wed.), at Long Island
Dec. 3 (Sat.), at Siena
Dec. 6 (Tue.), Niagara
Dec. 18 (Sun.), Sacred Heart
Dec. 22 (Thu.), at Canisius
Dec. 29 (Thu.), at Florida International+
Dec. 30 (Fri.), Auburn or Charlotte+
Jan. 2 (Mon.), at Hartford*
Jan. 4 (Wed.), UMBC*
Jan. 8 (Sun.), at Stony Brook*
Jan. 11 (Wed.), at New Hampshire*
Jan. 14 (Sat.), at Maine*
Jan. 16 (Mon.), Boston U.*
Jan. 19 (Thu.), Vermont*
Jan. 25 (Wed.), at Binghamton*
Jan. 28 (Sat.), Hartford*
Feb. 1 (Wed.), at UMBC*
Feb. 4 (Sat.), Stony Brook* (BPG)
Feb. 8 (Wed.), New Hampshire*
Feb. 11 (Sat.), Maine*
Feb. 15 (Wed.), at Vermont*
Feb. 18 (Sat.), at Boston U.*
Feb. 22 (Wed.), Binghamton*

+Sun and Fun Classic (Miami, Fla.)
BPG - Big Purple Growl

Courtesy: UAlbany Athletics

Aubrey VanGorder Leads University of Albany W Soccer to 1-0 Win Over Iona - UAlbany Sports 2011

New Rochelle, N.Y. - Sophomore Aubrey VanGorder scored the game's only goal, leading UAlbany to a 1-0 win over Iona in non-conference women's soccer action on Wednesday afternoon at Mazella Field.

VanGorder's goal came at the 12-minute mark of the first half. The forward took a crossing pass from Chrissy Klepper and chipped the ball over the goalkeeper's head to give UAlbany the early lead. The Great Danes continued to fire away at the net during the first half, finishing with nine shots in the period. Iona goalkeeper Trista Rivera kept the Gaels within reach, making five saves in the first 45 minutes of play, but could not get any help on the offensive side of the field.

UAlbany outshot Iona, 11-9, while the teams were tied with three corner kicks apiece. Dani Britt earned the start in the net for the Great Danes, making two saves in the first half, while freshman Jacky Ubert stopped two Iona shots between the pipes in the second half. Rivera played a complete game for Iona (1-4-1), making seven saves for the Gaels.

UAlbany (2-2-0) will return to action on Friday, hosting Colgate at Varsity Field at 4 p.m.


Courtesy: UAlbany Athletics

UAlbany Men's Soccer's Pomare Te Anau Selected as America East Conference Rookie of the Week

Cambridge, Mass.- UAlbany's men's soccer Pomare Te Anau has been selected as America East's Rookie of the Week, which was announced on Tuesday, Sept. 6 by the conference office.

Te Anau, who has been implemented into the starting lineup after teammate Dan Christiansen received a red card in the season opener, has tallied a goal and an assist in two games. In the Great Danes match at Hofstra, Te Anau placed a corner kick where only his teammate Thomas Manz could head in the game-tying goal in regulation on Monday, Aug. 29. Then in UAlbany's match at New Jersey Tech on Thursday, Sept. 1, the freshman from New Zealand received a pass from Christiansen in front of the net to score his first collegiate goal in the 84th minute to solidify a 4-1 victory.

The Great Danes continue their 2011 season when they host the University at Buffalo on Sunday, Sept. 11 at 2:30 pm.

Courtesy: UAlbany Athletics

University of Albany Ranked #16 in Kookaburra/National Field Hockey Coaches Association Poll - UAlbany Sports 2011

Albany, N.Y. - University at Albany remains in national top 20 of the first regular-season Kookaburra/NFHCA Division I National Coaches Poll, as announced by the National Field Hockey Coaches Association on Tuesday afternoon. The Great Danes, who were ranked 17th in the preseason poll, moved up one position and are now tied for 16th with Stanford.

UAlbany (3-1) currently holds a two-game win streak after defeating Virginia Commonwealth, 3-1, and Northwestern, 2-1, in non-conference games held in Evanston, Illinois played last weekend. The Great Danes split the first week of regular-season play with a 5-0 victory over Robert Morris, played in Spring City, Pennsylvania, and opened at home with a 3-2 loss to previously ranked No. 20 Stanford. UAlbany has outscored their opponents 12-5 as they have recorded 35 shots on goal to their opponents 13 chances. In the first four games, UAlbany also holds a 40-10 penalty corner attempt advantage over their opponents.

The Great Danes resume play on Saturday, September 10th when they travel to Storrs, Connecticut for a match against No. 4 Connecticut in a non-conference game that starts at 12:00 p.m.

Courtesy: UAlbany Athletics

University of Albany Football's Herb Glass Selected Northeast Conference Special Teams Player of the Week - UAlbany Sports 2011

Somerset, N.J. - University at Albany's Herb Glass has been selected Northeast Conference Special Teams Player of the Week in football, as announced on Monday, Sept. 5 by the conference office.

Glass, a senior placekicker, made a pair of 40-plus yard field goals and all four point-after attempts in last Saturday's 37-34 overtime loss against Colgate. He drilled a 41-yard kick on the first possession of the extra period to put his team ahead, before the Raiders scored a touchdown on their overtime series. Glass also made a 48-yarder in the first quarter, tying the third longest in program history. In addition, Glass kicked off six times and had a career-high three touchbacks.

A native of Miller Place, N.Y., Glass became the school's all-time scoring placekicker, breaking a mark previously held by Bryan Bagstad (1999-2001). Glass is fifth on UAlbany's overall career scoring chart with 174 points. He also tied Jason Fralicker (2006-07) for first place in career field goals with 28. Glass was also recognized by College Football Performance Awards in the honorable mention category for Division I FCS placekicker of the week.

Paw Prints: UAlbany is idle this week before meeting Maine in the home opener at University Field on Saturday, Sept. 17 ... the 6:00 p.m. contest will air on Time Warner Cable Sports (Channel 3) ... UAlbany's season opener was decided by three points or less for the fifth time in the last six years ... the Great Danes, who played in their fifth overtime contest, have had eight games decided by three points or less since the start of the 2009 campaign ... UAlbany scored its most points in an opener since 1999, as starting quarterback Dan Di Lella accounted for career-highs in passing yards (239) and total offense (261) ... Di Lella and reserve quarterback Buddy Leathley helped UAlbany set the program's FCS record for single-game passing yards with 334, breaking a mark of 319 at Robert Morris on Nov. 11, 2000 ... defensive end Eddie Delaney had a career-high 10 tackles with one sack ... inside linebacker Jon Morgan made 11 tackles, including seven unassisted, for the second-highest total of his career ... Herb Glass has kicked eight field goals of 40 or more yards as a collegian.

Courtesy: UAlbany Athletics

# 17 University of Albany Field Hockey Hands Northwestern 1st Loss In Evanston - UAlbany Sports 2011

Evanston, Ill. - University at Albany finish up the trip to Evanston, Illinois with a 2-1 nailbiting win over Northwestern on Sunday afternoon. Senior forward, Christina Patrick scored both goals for the Great Danes with the game-winner coming in the final minute of regulation play. The win marks the second straight for UAlbany (3-1).

The scoring came late in the match as Northwestern (3-1) replaced the zero on the scoreboard first with seven minutes left in the first stanza. Chelsea Armstrong made a fast break for the goal and handed it off to Claire Thompson who tapped it in. The 1-0 lead for the Wildcats would be shortlived as the Great Danes responded quickly after the halftime chat.

UAlbany would be the only scorers in the second half, as Patrick tied the game at 1-1 after recieving a quick pass from Daphne Voormolen down the center in the 38th minute. The Great Danes held onto the momentum for most of the half; taking five shots and five penatly corners. The go-ahead and game-winning goal, although, would not come until the final minute of play when Patrick tackled a bouncing ball from Corrine McConville inside the arc to put away the shot.

The defense played a large role in the win for the Great Danes. The Wildcats earned a penalty corner with no time remaining with a solid chance to tie the game, but UAlbany's solid defense and goalkeeping gave them the win.

"The defensive end held up great today, we put in an excellent effort all weekend," said UAlbany Head Coach Phil Sykes. "Resilience was crucial in reserving today's win. This was a great way to finish our trip to Chicago."

Kristi Troch, Great Danes goalkeeper, made two saves in today's contest while securing her third win of the season. Northwestern goalkeeper, Maddy Carpenter had five saves in the loss. The Great Danes out-shot the Wildcats 11-5 and took a 12-5 penatly corner advantage.

UAlbany will take the week off before traveling next Saturday, September 10th for a match with Connecticut, a noon start time.


Courtesy: UAlbany Athletics

University of Albany X Country Finishes 1st at Monmouth Kick-Off Classic; Paul Lagno Sets Course Record - UAlbany Sports 2011

Lincroft, N.J.- For the fourth straight year, UAlbany's men's and women's cross country squads placed first at the Monmouth Kick-Off Classic on Saturday, Sept. 3.

Sophomores Kathyrn Fanning and Paul Lagno were able to place first for the Great Danes at Thompson Park. Lagno set the course record with a time of 18:11.7 over 6,000 meters, which was previously held by teammate Alex Leuchanka who ran 18:28:1 last year.

After Lagno finished first for UAlbany, Ethan Clary was second with a time of 18:19:4 followed by Chris Burke (18:40.7) and Alex Leuchanka (18:43.2) to round out the top four.

In the women's 4,000-meter race, UAlbany's Kathryn Fanning was first across the finish line with a time of 14:21.8. Emily Finnegan (14:39.9), Melissa Del Rosario (14:47.3), Ada Lauterbach (14:50.0) and Brianne Bellon (14:57.1) rounded out third through sixth place.

The Great Danes will continue the 2011 season when they head to the Iona Meet of Champions on Sept. 17.

Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

University of Albany X Country Finishes 1st @ Monmouth - Kathryn Fanning Grabs First Overall - UAlbany Sports 2011

Lincroft, N.J.- For the fourth straight year, UAlbany's men's and women's cross country squads placed first at the Monmouth Kick-Off Classic on Saturday, Sept. 3.

Sophomores Kathyrn Fanning and Paul Lagno were able to place first for the Great Danes at Thompson Park. Lagno set the course record with a time of 18:11.7 over 6,000 meters, which was previously held by teammate Alex Leuchanka who ran 18:28:1 last year.

After Lagno finished first for UAlbany, Ethan Clary was second with a time of 18:19:4 followed by Chris Burke (18:40.7) and Alex Leuchanka (18:43.2) to round out the top four.

In the women's 4,000-meter race, UAlbany's Kathryn Fanning was first across the finish line with a time of 14:21.8. Emily Finnegan (14:39.9), Melissa Del Rosario (14:47.3), Ada Lauterbach (14:50.0) and Brianne Bellon (14:57.1) rounded out third through sixth place.

The Great Danes will continue the 2011 season when they head to the Iona Meet of Champions on Sept. 17.

Courtesy: UAlbany Athletics

University of Albany Field Hockey Capitlizes With 3-1 Victory Over VCU - UAlbany Sports 2011

Evanston, Ill. - University at Albany take their second victory on the season with a 3-1 score over Virgina Commonwealth University in a neutral site, non-conference game held in Evanston, Illinois on Saturday afternoon.

The Great Danes (2-1) prevailed on their penalty corners as two of the three tallies came from attempts. The first goal came at the 15 minute mark when Christina Patrick finished off a corner with assists from Karlijn van Dijsseldonk and Corrine McConville. The second penalty corner goal would come in the second stanza when Nina Walters deflected a shot from Daphne Voormolen, giving her an assist, to make the game 3-0 in UAlbany's favor. Van Dijsseldonk also notched her second assist in the match with Walters goal.

Graduate student Katharina Helling registered her first goal as a Great Dane near the 28 minute mark in the first half with rebound off a corner shot.

The Rams (1-3), trailing 3-0, gained momentum late in the final minute of play when they registered their first penalty corner of the game. Kelsey Scherrer blasted a shot in between the pipes with assists from Stephanie DeMassi and Kendell Combs, which would finalize all scoring. Combs ended the match with four shots.

Playing in all 70 minutes, UAlbany goalkeeper, Kristi Troch made two saves in her second win of the season. For the Rams, Erin Jablonski made seven saves in the loss. UAlbany led in penalty corner attempts with a 12-1 advantage and out shot VCU 18-6.

The Great Danes will return to action tomorrow afternoon facing Northwestern in a non-conference match for a 2:00 p.m. start time in Evanston, Illinois.

Courtesy: UAlbany Athletics

UAlbany Upended By Colgate, 37-34, on Overtime TD; Dan Di Lella Passes for Career Yards

Hamilton, N.Y. - Nate Eachus scored on a one-yard run in overtime to lift Colgate to a 37-34 victory over UAlbany in the season opener for both teams on Saturday, Sept. 3 before 6,748 fans at Andy Kerr Stadium.

UAlbany grabbed a 34-31 lead in the extra period when Herb Glass booted a 41-yard field goal. The Raiders moved seven plays for the winning points. The key play came on third-and-10 at the 25-yard line. Quarterback Gavin McCarney, while falling down, found Dan Basil crossing to the sideline for 14 yards and a first down. Eachus, a Walter Payton Award candidate who rushed for 165 yards on 36 carries, ran four consecutive times to finish the drive.

Colgate rallied after the intermission to draw even at 31 apiece. The Raiders went 95 yards in 12 plays the first time they touched the ball. McCarney beat the blitz with a 44-yard pass to Eachus to set up the drive. The sophomore quarterback went the final four yards over left tackle. Safety Chad Frey later picked off UAlbany reserve quarterback Buddy Leathley at the Colgate two-yard line. The Raiders turned that turnover into a 24-yard field goal by Joe Uglietto.

UAlbany drove into Colgate territory midway through the final quarter. But on third down, Di Lella threw into double coverage and Mike Armiento came up with the interception at the six-yard line. The Raiders marched 14 plays for the winning field goal attempt, but Uglietto missed a 32-yarder to the right.

"We had thirty-one points at halftime and then didn't score in the second half," UAlbany coach Bob Ford stated. "We gave them too many possessions. That's a good running back and the quarterback really hurt us running the ball."
In a second quarter that produced plenty of offense with big plays, Colgate took a 21-17 lead when McCarney flipped a two-yard scoring pass to tight end CJ Stempeck. McCarney, who completed 17 of 24 passes for 210 yards and two TDs, plus added 114 yards and two scores on the ground. The Great Danes regrouped by reaching the end zone on their next two possessions.

Di Lella, a 6-foot-5 quarterback who passed for a career-high 239 yards, hit a streaking Ben Carl in the middle of the field on a 37-yard completion. Ben Miseikis, one of five tailbacks UAlbany used in the half, rumbled through the Raider defense for a 19-yard touchdown. After the Great Danes held Colgate on its next series, Di Lella threw a 12-yard completion to tailback Andrew Smith to midfield. A wacky play ended the period, when the senior's intended pass was broken up by free safety Jordan McCord. But the ball bounded into the air and UAlbany receiver Kevin Chillis hauled in the deflection and raced to paydirt for a 50-yard touchdown.

UAlbany took a 10-7 lead in the second period, as Smith scored on a 5-yard run. The Raiders went back in front when McCarney rifled a 49-yard strike to Dan Cason. The series was set up by Jimmy De Cicco's kickoff return. Leathley and tailback Dillon Romain then hooked up a 75-yard screen pass for a 17-14 UAlbany advantage. Romain broke a tackle in the middle of the field, jumped a pile and broke free from the pack.

"They make you regret your mistakes," offered Di Lella, who connected on 17-of-28 through the air. "We are upset with the loss, but this is something the offense can build upon. This is a confidence boost for a unit that came into the game as a question mark."

Paw Prints: UAlbany began its 39th season of varsity football on the road for the 11th time in 13 Division I FCS seasons ... Colgate and UAlbany also played in the 2007 opener, a 13-11 victory for the Raiders ... the Great Danes have lost four of five overtime games playing in the program's history ... Herb Glass made a 48-yard field in the first quarter, tying the third longest in school history ... Glass became the school's all-time scoring leader as a placekicker with 174 points, moving past Bryan Bagstad (1999-2001) ... Dillon Romain's 75-yard TD reception tied the ninth-longest pass play in UAlbany history ...UAlbany is 4-9 in openers as a NCAA FCS program.

Courtesy: UAlbany Athletics

UAlbany Volleyball Defeats Slovenian National Team, 3-1, in Exhibition Match

Boulder, Colo.. - Casey Wright finished with 15 kills, five digs and three blocks, while Sara Pope also totaled 15 kills to lead UAlbany to a 3-1 win over the Solovenian National Team in an exhibition match at Colorado's Coors Events Center on Thursday evening. The Great Danes earned the win with scores of 25-17, 19-25, 25-18 and 25-22.

Wright, who was the top hitter in the America East last season, led the Great Danes with a .462 hitting percentage. Setter Brooke Stanley recorded her second double-double of the season, totaling a match-high 46 assists to go along with 10 kills. Stanley also recorded seven kills on .538 hitting, and notched one of UAlbany's five service aces. Lindsey McCloskey finished with a match-high 16 digs, while libero Laurie Gonzalez totaled 15 digs defensively along with two aces.

Mihela Planinsec led the Slovenian National Team with a match-high 20 kills, while Sara Hutinski added 11 kills on .500 hitting. Ursa Jerala recorded 32 assists at the main setter position, while Ana Pehnec added 13 assists. Meta Jerala and Monika Potokar led the Slovenian's defensively with 16 and 14 digs, respectively. While the Slovenian's outblocked the Great Danes, 7-5, UAlbany held the national team to a .221 hitting percentage over the four sets.

UAlbany will return to the regular schedule on Saturday, playing two matches against Colorado State and Nebraska in Fort Collins, Colo.


Courtesy: UAlbany Athletics

University of Albany Men’s Soccer Defeats NJIT, 4-1, to Provide Head Coach Trevor Gorman His First Victory - UAlbany Sports 2011

Newark, N.J.- After two close games in the beginning of the season, head coach Trevor Gorman achieved his first win as a head coach at the University at Albany on Thursday, Sept. 1. The Great Danes were able to beat the Highlanders, 4-1, in New Jersey. UAlbany found its offensive production from junior Quintel Gates (2 goals), senior David Pinto (1 goal), and freshman Pomare Te Anau (1 goal).

The Great Danes found the back of the net first in the 30th minute of the game with senior captain Anthony DeSalvo setting up his teammate Gates to put UAlbany up 1-0.

As the second half was played, it looked as though the Great Danes made sure they would seal the deal for their first year head coach to give him his first victory. After an own goal by UAlbany in the 58th minute, the Great Danes took over by scoring three times within 14 minutes to put the match at 4-1 and out of reach for any upset by New Jersey Tech.

"I was very pleased with our team's effort and resiliency tonight", said head coach Trevor Gorman on his team's performance in his first win. "To fight back on the road after conceding the equalizer showed a lot of character. Hopefully we can build on this moving forward."

UAlbany (1-2) controlled most of the match having put eight of its 15 total shots on net compared to NJIT's (0-2) four of 10. A big improvement was shown from the Great Dane's senior goalkeeper Adrian Foncette, saving all three shots on net from the opposing team, with the only goal being accredited to his teammate that kept him from his ninth career shutout.

The Great Danes look to improve on this win, as they have a 10 day layover until their next game at home, vs. Buffalo, on Sunday, Sept. 11 at 2:30 pm.

Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

2011 UAlbany FCS Football Gameday @ Colgate - 9/3/11

University of Albany Football: Championship Subdivision Football (FCS)


UAlbany FCS Football Homepage

UAlbany FCS Football Roster

UAlbany FCS Football Stats

UAlbany FCS Football Media Guide

UAlbany FCS Football Game Notes


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NEXT GAME

Date: Saturday, September 3, 2011
Time: 6pm
Opponent: Colgate
Location: Halilton, NY
Facility: Andy Kerr Stadium
Directions
Tickets

Distance:
From Albany - 104m
From Boston – 240m
From NYC - 388m


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2011 UAlbany FCS Football Schedule:

Sat, Sep 3 at Colgate 6:00 pm --
Sat, Sep 17 Maine 6:00 pm --
Sat, Sep 24 at Columbia 12:30 pm --
Sat, Oct 1 at St. Francis (PA) 1:00 pm --
Sat, Oct 8 Duquesne 1:00 pm --
Sat, Oct 15 Robert Morris 1:00 pm --
Sat, Oct 22 at Central Connecticut State 12:00 pm --
Sat, Oct 29 at Wagner 1:00 pm --
Sat, Nov 5 Bryant 1:00 pm --
Sat, Nov 12 at Monmouth 12:00 pm --
Sat, Nov 19 Sacred Heart 1:00 pm --


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Gameday Live Media Coverage:

FoxSports Radio - Great Dane Football
Webcast
Live Stats

Pregame Media Coverage:

Big Purple Fans - UAlbany Fan Board

Troy Record Pregame

TU Pregame

Coach's Corner:

Coach Ford Interview



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Colgate Football: Championship Subdivision Football (FCS)


Football Homepage

Football Roster

Football Game Notes

Football Media Guide

Football Stats


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2011 Schedule:

Sat, Sep 3 Albany 6:00 pm --
Sat, Sep 10 at Holy Cross 1:00 pm --
Sat, Sep 17 at Dartmouth 1:30 pm --
Sat, Sep 24 at Towson 7:00 pm --
Sat, Oct 1 Fordham 1:00 pm --
Sat, Oct 8 at Monmouth 1:00 pm --
Sat, Oct 15 Cornell 1:00 pm --
Sat, Oct 22 at Georgetown 2:00 pm --
Sat, Oct 29 Lehigh 12:00 pm --
Sat, Nov 5 at Lafayette 6:00 pm --
Sat, Nov 19 Bucknell 1:00 pm --


Andy Kerr Stadium:

Football Ready to Begin 2011 Schedule Against Colgate on Saturday at Andy Kerr Stadium

Hamilton, N.Y. - UAlbany opens its 2011 schedule against Colgate on Saturday, Sept. 3 at Andy Kerr Stadium. Kickoff is 6:00 p.m. The Great Danes are beginning on the road for the 11th time in 13 NCAA Division I FCS seasons. Fans can listen to the game on WGY Radio 810 AM and 103.1 FM, with Rodger Wyland and Zach Bye providing the coverage.

The Raiders, who are coming off a 7-4 campaign, are receiving votes in both The Sports Network and FCS Coaches' national polls. Colgate was picked second in the Patriot League preseason rankings. Head coach Dick Biddle has a 120-55 career record and has guided the program to six league championships and six FCS playoff appearances. The Raiders reached the national championship game in 2003.

Biddle's squad returns 14 starters, including seven on offense and seven on defense. All-America tailback Nate Eachus is a candidate for the Walter Payton Award as the nation's top player. Eachus rushed for 1,871 yards and 21 touchdowns en route to being honored as the 2010 Patriot League Offensive Player of the Year. All-League linemen James Germano (6-3, 297) and Vittorio Ottanelli (6-4, 299) will pave the way.

On defense, inside linebacker Chris DiMassa led the team with 92 tackles, plus added 4.5 sacks and two interceptions last season. Defensive tackle Tyler Danielson (6-1, 292) anchors the line. He had 27 tackles and 2.0 sacks. Cornerback Kenny McKenzie and strong safety Chad Frey are back as starters in the secondary.

In 2010, the Great Danes established a program record with their fifth consecutive winning season. Bob Ford, who is in his 43rd season as a collegiate head coach, led the program to a 6-5 record and a tie for fourth in the Northeast Conference standings. Ford returns 14 starters for a squad picked third in the NEC preseason poll.

Buddy Leathley and Dan Di Lella split time at quarterback last year. The pair combined for seven touchdown passes and three rushing TDs. Tailbacks Andrew Smith and Dillon Romain were productive. Smith rushed for a team-leading 724 yards and seven scores. Romain, the NEC Offensive Rookie of the Year as a freshman, added 547 yards and six TDs on the ground. Ryan Kirchner, a preseason All-NEC candidate, hauled in 50 receptions.

Eddie Delaney, a two-time all-conference defensive end, and tackle Zach Gallo (6-0, 265) key a veteran line. Linebackers Dave Plungas (71) and Jon Morgan (54) led the team in tackles. Herb Glass, a senior placekicker, and preseason All-NEC punter Paul Layton (40.1 avg.) are a strong tandem.

Paw Prints: Saturday's opener at Colgate kicks off the 39th season of varsity football at UAlbany ... the Great Danes and Colgate are meeting for the second time on the gridiron ... the Raiders posted a 13-11 triumph in the first contest between the programs on Sept. 1, 2007 ... Bob Ford is first among active FCS coaches with 247 career victories ... the Northeast Conference champion will earn an automatic NCAA FCS playoff berth for the second consecutive year.

University of Albany's Karlijn van Dijsseldonk Chosen America East Field Hockey Rookie of the Week - UAlbany Sports 2011

Cambridge, Mass. - University at Albany's Karlijn van Dijsseldonk was named America East Conference Rookie of the Week in field hockey, as announced by the league office on Tuesday afternoon.

In the season opening 5-0 win over Robert Morris, van Dijsseldonk notched her first career goal just after the second half began. The goal came off a pass just inside the arc through the middle, van Dijsseldonk sent the blast into the left side of the cage. She also registered two shots in the match as a starter.

A native of Eindhoven, Netherlands, van Dijsseldonk was a member of the national league team and played in several international competitions

Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

University of Albany's Chrissy Klepper Named America East Conference Women's Soccer Player of the Week - UAlbany Sports 2011

Cambridge, Mass. - Senior midfielder Chrissy Klepper was named the America East Conference Women's Soccer Player of the Week, as announced by the league office on Monday afternoon.

Klepper, a team captain, was instrumental in leading UAlbany to a 3-2 overtime victory against Sacred Heart in the 2011 season opener for the Great Danes on Friday afternoon. Klepper set up the Great Danes' second goal of the day, passing the ball off to sophomore Aubrey VanGorder who found the back of the net to put UAlbany up, 2-0. In the overtime period, Klepper took a long pass from Rebecca Lee and redirected it into the left side of the goal with just 18 seconds remaining on the clock, giving the Great Danes the sudden victory. The goal was the fifth of Klepper's career.

Courtesy: UAlbany Athletics

University of Albany's Christina Patrick Leads Field Hockey to Victory Over Robert Morris in Opener - UAlbany Sports 2011

Spring City, Pa. - Senior forward Christina Patrick scored one goal and recorded two assists to lead UAlbany to a 5-0 win over Robert Morris in the first game of the 2011 season on Saturday afternoon at The Training Center.

Daphne Voormolen started off the scoring for the Great Danes, tallying the game's first goal just 4:15 into play. The sophomore forward converted the unassisted goal with a reverse stick shot from just inside the left side of the circle. Patrick doubled the score before halftime, poking the ball into the cage after a penalty corner attempt in the 33rd minute.

Freshman Karlijn Dijsseldonk scored her first collegiate goal to kick off the second half, taking an assist from Patrick at 43:21. Patrick, who inserts the ball on UAlbany's penalty corners, notched her second helper of the day in the 54th minute, assisting Corrine McConnville, along with Katharina Helling for the Great Danes' fourth tally. Amy Nicklin wrapped up the scoring just over a minute later on an unassisted goal.

UAlbany outshot Robert Morris, 17-0, and held an 8-1 advantage on penalty corners. Erin McKenzie and Paige Neat split time in the cage for the Colonials, making three and two saves, respectively. Kristi Troch went the distance in the cage for the Great Danes, playing all 70 minutes without having to make a save.

UAlbany (1-0) will return to action on Wednesday, Aug. 31, hosting Stanford to open up the home season at Alumni Turf Field at 5 p.m.


Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

University of Albany Women's Soccer Defeats Sacred Heart 3-2 in Overtime - UAlbany Sports 2011

Albany, N.Y. - Senior Chrissy Klepper took a long pass from Rebecca Lee and redirected it into the left side of the goal with 18 seconds remaining in overtime to give UAlbany a 3-2 victory in the first women's soccer game of 2011, on Friday afternoon at Varsity Field.

The Great Danes scored two early goals in the first half. Sophomore Aubrey VanGorder tallied her first goal of the game just over five minutes into play, collecting a failed clear by the Sacred Heart goalkeeper and finding the back of the net. Van Gorder added her second tally of the day five minutes later, taking a pass from Klepper into the box, and putting a shot over the keepers head into the right side of the goal.

Sacred Heart responded in the 17th minute, getting an unassisted goal by Ashley Moore to cut the Pioneers' deficit to one. Amanda Stiles tied the game at 2-2 with just 45 seconds left in regulation, as Maggie O'Callaghan connected with Stiles on a corner kick that slipped past UAlbany goalkeeper Dani Britt.

The teams battled through most of the overtime until Lee found Klepper wide open up the field. Klepper collected the pass and redirected the ball past Sacred Heart's Talia Schwartz to give the Great Danes the sudden victory.

UAlbany outshot Sacred Heart, 22-8, while the Pioneers recorded an 8-2 advantage in corner kicks. Sydney Judkins, who started in net, made two saves, while Schwartz played the remainder of the game between the pipes, also stopping two shots for Sacred Heart (0-1). Britt went the distance for UAlbany, making three saves in goal.

UAlbany (1-0) was scheduled to return to action on Sunday at Rhode Island, but that game has been postponed due to Hurricane Irene. Rescheduling information for that game can be found on www.ualbanysports.com. The Great Danes' next scheduled match is Friday, Sept. 2 at St. John's.

Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

UAlbany Announces 2011-12 Basketball Non-League Schedule; Women Travel to Iowa & Florida

Albany, N.Y. - University at Albany Vice President and Director of Athletics Lee McElroy announced on Thursday, Aug. 25 the school's women's basketball non-conference schedule for the 2011-12 season. The team will host five non-conference opponents at SEFCU Arena in the early part of the season, while also making trips to Iowa, Ohio and Miami, Fla. as a participant in a tournament hosted by Florida International.

The Great Danes open up the season on Nov. 11, visiting Fordham. The home slate begins on Sunday, Nov. 13, welcoming LaSalle to the 4,538-seat SEFCU Arena. The Great Danes then embark on a three-game road swing, venturing to Iowa City on Wed., Nov. 16, for a match up with Big Ten Conference opponent Iowa before visiting Brown in Providence, R.I. on Sat., Nov. 19. UAlbany wraps up the swing with a trip to Toledo on Nov. 22. The Great Danes return to their home court on Sun., Nov. 27, hosting St. Francis (N.Y.) and finish off the month of November with a contest at Long Island on the 30th.

UAlbany takes the short drive to downtown Albany's Times Union Center on Dec. 3 to take on crosstown-rival Siena. Two straight home games follow, as the Great Danes host Niagara (Dec. 6) and Sacred Heart (Dec. 18) in return games from last season's schedule. Before breaking for the holidays, UAlbany will visit Canisius on Dec. 22. The Great Danes will close out 2011 portion of the schedule at Florida International's Sun and Fun Classic, where they will face off against the host Panthers on Dec. 29 and either Auburn or Charlotte on Dec. 30.

Head coach Katie Abrahamson-Henderson returns all-conference performers Ebone Henry and Julie Forster from a team that finished the 2010-11 campaign with a record of 16-14, capping the highest win total in 14 years and the most in its Division I history. Nine of these wins were achieved during America East Conference play, another record number for the program. Henry, an America East Conference first-team member, was the league's defensive player of the year after finishing third in the conference in scoring, averaging 14.4 points a game, and second in the conference in steals with 2.6 per game. Forster led the America East Conference in rebounds, averaging 9.8 boards a game, and was ranked as high as 15th nationally in that category.

Courtesy: UAlbany Athletics

UAlbany Chosen First in 2011 America East Conference Women's Volleyball Preseason Poll

Cambridge, Mass. - University at Albany, the defending America East Conference regular-season and tournament champion, has been chosen first in the 2011 Preseason Poll, as announced on Thursday, Aug. 18 by the league office. The Great Danes, who claimed their fifth title in the last seven years a year ago, earned three first-place votes and 33 total points, just edging out last season's runner-up UMBC, who also garnered three first-place votes and 31 points.

Binghamton took home the final first-place nod to earn the third position in the poll with 25 points, followed by Stony Brook in fourth with 23 points. New Hampshire (15 points), Hartford (14 points) and Providence (6 points) rounded out the seven-team poll.

UAlbany finished 22-9 overall last season with a 10-2 record in conference play, plus advanced to NCAA Tournament play. The Great Danes lost 2010 Player of the Year Teresa Coppiellie, but return the previous season's Player and Setter of the Year Brooke Stanley, who will return to the court after missing all of last season with a knee injury. Senior middle blocker and all-conference first-team member Casey Wright is also back after leading the America East with a .344 hitting percentage while averaging 3.30 kills and 1.04 blocks per set. Three-time Defensive Specialist of the Year Laurie Gonzalez, a preseason COBRA All-America selection, averaged a league-high 5.16 digs per set last fall.

The top four teams during the regular season will compete at the 2011 America East Volleyball Championship on either November 18-19 or 19-20 at the top seed's home court. The winner of the tournament will earn an automatic bid into the NCAA Championship.

UAlbany will kick off the 2011 season on Friday, Aug. 26 at the Florida State Invitational with matches against Kentucky, Tulsa and the host school.

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2011 America East Conference Preseason Volleyball Poll
1. UAlbany (3), 33 points
2. UMBC (3), 31 points
3. Binghamton (1), 25 points
4. Stony Brook, 23 points
5. New Hampshire, 15 points
6. Hartford, 14 points
7. Providence, 6 points
first-place votes in parentheses


Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

UAlbany, Defending America East Champions Ranked 17th in Kookaburra/NFHCA Preseason Coaches’ Poll 2011

Albany, N.Y. - University at Albany has been ranked in the 2011 preseason Kookaburra/NFHCA Division I National Coaches Poll, as announced on Tuesday by the National Field Hockey Coaches Association. The Great Danes are No. 17 in the poll.

UAlbany will look to its two seniors, Christina Patrick and Erin Crosson, and seven other returnees to lead a large group of newcomers in the 2011 season. Patrick led the team in scoring (16 goals and 9 assists) and Crosson was a strong back for the Great Danes' defense. Among the returning are last season's America East Conference Rookie of the Year Corrine McConville and Goalkeeper of the Year Kristi Troch.

Added to the roster are graduate student Katharina Helling from Germany and Michigan State transfer Chantae Miller, both of whom will add to the offense. Having a rich history with Lehighton High School in Pennsylvania, this year's squad added two more graduates, midfielders Echo Bretz and Jordan Homyak, each coming off strong careers. International students, Karlijn van Dijsseldonk and Amy Nicklin, along with Alyssa Brand and Chloe Pachuilo are expected to contribute as well.

The season officially begins this coming Saturday, Aug. 27, as UAlbany meets Robert Morris for a 1:00 p.m. start in Spring City, Pa. The home opener will take place at Alumni Turf Field on Wednesday, Aug. 31 as the Great Danes host Stanford, ranked No. 20 in the NFHCA preseason poll.

Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

Basketball Announces Non-League Schedule; Pittsburgh & Maryland Among Opponents

Albany, N.Y. - University at Albany Vice President and Director of Athletics Lee McElroy announced on Wednesday, Aug. 17 the school's men's basketball non-conference schedule for the 2011-12 season. Pittsburgh, last year's Big East Conference regular-season champion, and Atlantic Coast Conference member Maryland top the list of opponents. UAlbany plays in the Dick's Sporting Goods NIT Season Tip-Off, beginning with the opening two rounds on Nov. 14-15.

The Great Danes will start their schedule on the road against a Big East Conference team for the third time in the last four years with a matchup at Pittsburgh on Friday, Nov. 11. The Panthers made their 10th consecutive NCAA Tournament appearance last year, advancing to the third round and finishing with a 28-6 record. Head coach Jamie Dixon has an All-Big East guard returning in Ashton Gibbs, who averaged 16.8 points per game. UAlbany travels to the 12,508-seat Petersen Events Center for the second time, having previously played there on Nov. 28, 2003.

UAlbany meets an Atlantic Coast Conference opponent for the fifth time in the last six seasons with a trip to Maryland's Comcast Center, a 17,950-seat facility. The Terrapins, who posted a 19-14 record last year, have a new coach. Mark Turgeon, who previously coached at Texas A&M, has led three Division I programs to a combined 250 wins and five NCAA tournaments. Sophomore guard Terrell Stoglin was a member of the 2011 All-ACC Freshmen Team. The Great Danes previously played ACC members Georgia Tech, North Carolina, Duke and Virginia.

In the NIT Season-Tip-Off, UAlbany faces Ivy League member Brown in the opening round on Monday, Nov. 14 as part of a doubleheader at Syracuse's Carrier Dome. The Orange, who twice has won the NIT Season Tip-Off, tangles with Manhattan, of the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference, in the other contest. Syracuse coach Jim Boeheim led last year's squad to a 27-win campaign and the SU program to the NCAAs for the 34th time.

In the first-ever meeting between the teams, the Great Danes open their home schedule against Navy on Friday, Nov. 25. Former Penn State mentor Ed DeChellis has taken over the reins of the Midshipmen's program. UAlbany returns to SEFCU Arena two days later against Fairleigh Dickinson.

In addition to those two games, UAlbany has home dates against Colgate (Dec. 7) and Dartmouth (Dec. 23). The Great Danes and Colgate, of the Patriot League, are meeting for the second year in a row. The Big Green last traveled to the Capital Region on Dec. 30, 2004.

UAlbany and Siena will continue their crosstown-rivalry on Monday, Dec. 5 at Times Union Center in the 51st meeting. The two teams are tangling for the 11th time as Division I programs. UAlbany also travels to Cornell (Dec. 17), St. Francis, N.Y. (Dec. 19) and Mount St. Mary's (Dec. 31).

UAlbany coach Will Brown returns four starters from last year's squad. Logan Aronhalt and Mike Black, a pair of All-America East Conference guards, each scored in double figures. Luke Devlin, who led the team in rebounding, was voted to the conference all-rookie team. Blake Metcalf, a 6-foot-9 junior, and John Puk, a 6-foot-10 sophomore, bolster the baseline.

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2011-12 UAlbany Men's Basketball Non-Conference Schedule
Nov. 11 (Fri.), at Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pa.
Nov. 14 (Mon.), Brown, Syracuse, N.Y. (NIT Season Tip-Off)
Nov. 15 (Tue.), Syracuse or Manhattan, Syracuse, N.Y. (NIT Season Tip-Off)
Nov. 21-23, Consolation or Championship Rounds (NIT Season Tip-Off)
Nov. 25 (Fri.), Navy, SEFCU Arena
Nov. 27 (Sun.), Fairleigh Dickinson, SEFCU Arena
Dec. 5 (Mon.), at Siena, Albany, N.Y.
Dec. 7 (Wed.), Colgate, SEFCU Arena
Dec. 17 (Sat.), at Cornell, Ithaca, N.Y.
Dec. 19 (Mon.), at St. Francis, N.Y., Brooklyn Heights, N.Y.
Dec. 23 (Fri.), Dartmouth, SEFCU Arena
Dec. 28 (Wed.), at Maryland, College Park, Md.
Dec. 31 (Sat.), at Mount St. Mary's, Emmitsburg, Md.

Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

UAlbany Chosen to Finish Second in America East Conference Preseason Field Hockey Poll

Cambridge, Mass. - University at Albany, the defending America East Conference champions, have been voted to finish second in the 2011 league standings as announced on Tuesday, Aug. 16 by the conference office. Despite receiving two of the five possible first-place votes, the Great Danes (21 points) were just two points behind the Terriers of Boston University, who garnered three first-place votes in the America East Preseason Field Hockey Poll.

Tied for third with 16 points are University of Maine and University of New Hampshire. The Wildcats, who captured last year's regular-season champion title, received the last first-place vote. Fairfield University and University of Vermont are tied at a fifth place finish with seven points each, completing the six-team poll.

The top-finishing team in the regular season will host the 2011 America East Field Hockey Championship on November 4 and 6. The league's top four teams will compete for the tournament title with an automatic berth to the NCAA Championship on the line.

Courtesy: UAlbany Athletics

Football Picked Fourth in NEC Poll; Three Great Danes on Preseason All-Conference Team

Somerset, N.J. - According to a preseason poll of Northeast Conference head football coaches, the University at Albany has been chosen to finish fourth in the 2011 standings. Central Connecticut State was selected to capture the NEC championship with five first-place votes. Duquesne had two first-place votes and was picked second, while defending champion Robert Morris took third in the poll. The results were announced during Wednesday's NEC media teleconference (Aug. 3).

"If you can't run the ball and can't stop the run, you will not be playing in December," offers head coach Bob Ford, the active NCAA Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) leader with 247 career victories. "We have an opportunity to make a run at the title. This will be a better football team."

The Great Danes, who have won or shared four NEC championships since 2002, have 14 starters, including seven on offense and seven on defense, returning. UAlbany finished with a 6-5 record last season to establish a program record with its fifth consecutive winning campaign.

The Northeast Conference champion will receive an automatic berth in the NCAA Division I Football Championship Subdivision playoffs. In 2010, the FCS playoff field was expanded from 16 to 20 teams. This season's national championship with be played in Frisco, Texas on Jan. 7, 2012.

In addition, UAlbany's Eddie Delaney, Ryan Kirchner and Paul Layton were voted to the NEC preseason all-conference squad. Delaney, a 6-foot-6, 245-pound defensive end from Holtsville, N.Y., was named to the all-conference second team for the second time in his career as a junior. He totaled 41 tackles, including 4.5 hits for a loss last year. Kirchner, a junior wide receiver from Rumson, N.J., had 50 receptions, the fifth-best mark in program annals, for 504 yard and one touchdown. He also averaged 10.4 yards per punt return. Layton, a sophomore punter from Burnt Hills, N.Y., averaged 40.1 yards per attempt last fall and ranked 31st among the FCS national leaders. He had 12 punts of 50 yards or longer.

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2011 Northeast Conference Football Preseason Coaches Poll
1. Central Connecticut State (5), 2. Duquesne (2), 3. Robert Morris (1), 4. Albany. 5. Bryant (1), 6. Monmouth, 7. Wagner, 8. Sacred Heart, 9. Saint Francis, Pa. ( ) - first-place votes.

Paw Prints: UAlbany's Herb Glass is one of 15 Division I FCS placekickers who have been nominated for the Fred Mitchell Award ... the Mitchell Award honors those kickers who have combined excellence on the field with community service ... Glass, a senior from Miller Place, N.Y., is among the school's all-time scorers with 164 points and is second in career field goals (26) ... UAlbany opponents Colgate, Central Connecticut State and Robert Morris are receiving votes in the College Sporting News 2011 Preseason Top 25 ... the FCS national championship game will be televised by ESPN2 on Jan. 7, 2010 at 1:00 p.m.


Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

UAlbany's Basketball Program Will Play in 2011 Dick's Sporting Goods NIT Season Tip-Off

New York, N.Y. - University at Albany Vice President and Director of Athletics Lee McElroy announced on Wednesday, July 20 that the school's men's basketball program has been chosen to play in the 2011 Dick's Sporting Goods NIT Season Tip-Off. UAlbany will compete in the North Regional, hosted by Syracuse University at the Carrier Dome.

The 27th annual tournament field will feature Syracuse (Big East), Arkansas-Pine Bluff (SWAC), Brown (Ivy), Colorado State (Mountain West), Florida International (Sun Belt), Fresno State (WAC), George Mason (Colonial), Manhattan (MAAC), Monmouth (Northeast), Oklahoma State (Big 12), Oral Roberts (Summit), SMU (Conference USA), Stanford (Pac-12), Texas-San Antonio (Southland) and Virginia Tech (ACC).

"We are excited to participate in the NIT Season Tip-Off," said UAlbany coach Will Brown, whose squad made the second-best improvement in program history with a 16-16 record last season. "It gives us an opportunity to compete in a tournament and for a championship early in the season. The NIT is an exempt event so we get to play additional games. The proximity of traveling to Syracuse is beneficial for our season ticket holders, fans, students and alumni."

The first- and second-round doubleheaders will be played November 14-16 on the campuses of the four highest-seeded teams -- Syracuse, Virginia Tech, Oklahoma State and Stanford. The winners of the preliminary rounds advance to the semifinals, which take place in New York City's Madison Square Garden November 23. The consolation and championship games will be played November 25.

The remaining teams will play third- and fourth-round doubleheaders November 21-22 on the campuses of the three highest remaining seeds. Participating teams will not play any team twice, and the third- and fourth-rounds will be assigned to the most geographically compatible site.

The sites and pairings are as follows: The North Regional will take place at Syracuse, where the Orange will host Manhattan and UAlbany squares off against Brown. The East Regional will be held on the campus of Virginia Tech and the Hokies will meet Monmouth, with George Mason facing Florida International. The Midwest Regional will be played at Oklahoma State, with the Cowboys taking on Arkansas-Pine Bluff and Oral Roberts battling Texas-San Antonio. Stanford is the host team in the West Regional and will play Fresno State in one half of the doubleheader, while Colorado State takes on SMU.

Syracuse, a two-time NIT Season Tip-Off champion, is coming off a 27-8 campaign and the program's 34th NCAA Tournament appearance. Hall of Fame Coach Jim Boeheim owns an 856-301 career record. Kris Joseph, a 6-foot-7 senior, earned All-Big East third-team honors while averaging 14.3 points. Scoop Jardine, an honorable mention all-conference guard, added 12.5 points per game.

UAlbany will meet an Ivy League opponent for the eighth consecutive season in the first-round match-up with Brown. Head coach Jesse Agel returns Tucker Halperin, an honorable mention All-Ivy performer who scored at a 12.6 clip. Sean McGonagil (11.8 ppg) was named the 2011 Ivy League Rookie of the Year.

Manhattan, a member of the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference, hired former Louisville assistant Steve Masiello as its head coach last spring. George Beamon, a 6-foot-4 swingman, averaged 16.3 points and was picked to the All-MAAC third team as a sophomore. If UAlbany and Manhattan square off in the second round, it will be the first meeting between the programs since Feb. 4, 1939.

The Great Danes return four starters off last year's team, including All-America East Conference guards Logan Aronhalt (14.6 ppg) and Mike Black (12.3 ppg). Luke Devlin, who averaged 7.4 points and 6.9 rebounds, was voted to the conference all-rookie team. Blake Metcalf, a 6'9" junior, contributed 4.0 points and 4.8 rebounds.

ESPN will provide coverage throughout the event, televising games on ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU and ESPN3.com. Games on ESPN and ESPN2 will be simulcast on ESPN3.com. For updated coverage of the NIT, go to www.nit.org.

Paw Prints: Syracuse ranked second nationally in attendance last year by averaging 22,312 at the Carrier Dome ... UAlbany last played Syracuse on Nov. 9, 2009 in the first round of the 2K Sports Classic, benefitting Coaches vs. Cancer ... the Great Danes, who appeared in the 2010 Legends Classic, are part of an in-season tournament field for the third consecutive year.

Courtesy: UAlbany Athletics

UAlbany's Laurie Gonzalez Named to COBRA Magazine's Preseason All-America Volleyball Team

Albany, N.Y. - University at Albany's Laurie Gonzalez has been chosen to COBRA Magazine's Preseason All-America Women's Volleyball Team, as announced on Friday, July 15 by the national publication. Gonzalez, a defensive specialist and libero, was named to the second team and was one of 45 players selected.

Gonzalez was voted America East Conference Defensive Specialist of the Year for the third consecutive season as a junior. She ranked first in the conference and 29th among the NCAA Division I leaders with a 5.16 dig average. Gonzalez, who was also fifth in the America East in service aces, established the program's single-season record with 583 digs.

A senior from Carolina, Puerto Rico, Gonzalez has been named to All-America East second team on three occasions, including last year when she totaled a season-best 31 digs against Yale. She recorded 20 or more digs in 15 of 31 matches played. Gonzalez is third on the school's all-time list with 1,510 career digs.

In 2010, Gonzalez earned a spot on the America East all-championship team after leading UAlbany to its fifth conference tournament championship. The Great Danes, who finished with a 22-9 record, advanced to the NCAA Tournament to play Stanford, a team that eventually reached the national quarterfinals.

Courtesy: UAlbany Sports

University of Albany's Nikki Branchini Selected America East Conference Lacrosse Scholar-Athlete of the Year - UAlbany Sports 2011

Cambridge, Mass. - University at Albany's Nikki Branchini has been chosen America East Conference Scholar-Athlete of the Year in the sport of women's lacrosse, as announced on Wednesday, July 6 by the conference office.

Branchini, the first UAlbany female athlete to earn All-America recognition on the field and in the classroom at the Division I level, graduated with a 3.83 cumulative grade point average in history and a minor in education. She was selected to the Capital One/CoSIDA Academic All-America At-Large national second team and was named the 2011 Intercollegiate Women's Lacrosse Coaches Association (IWLCA) Division I Scholar-Athlete of the Year.

In May, Branchini was tabbed America East Conference Woman of the Year for combining excellence in athletics, academics, service and leadership. A three-time America East all-academic team selection, she was awarded an ECAC Merit Medal as the school's top senior female student-athlete and was the recipient of the Chancellor's Scholar-Athlete Award. Branchini has interned at the Albany County District Attorney's Office and at the Albany City School District as a tutor for special education students. She plans to attend law school.

Branchini made her second straight appearance on the IWLCA All-America Team as a second-team defensive midfielder. She was also voted to the Synapse Sports All-America Team and earned first-team All-Northeast Region honors. During her career, she won or shared America East Player of the Year twice and became the third player in conference history to win multiple top player awards. Branchini is the first UAlbany player to be voted all-region three times and first-team all-conference in all four years. She was voted UAlbany's Female Athlete of the Year for second time during her career.

A native of Guilderland, N.Y., Branchini led UAlbany to its first America East Conference championship and the NCAA Tournament's quarterfinal round, losing to eventual national champion Northwestern. UAlbany (18-1) was ranked in the top 10 nationally in both polls for the first time, including No. 8 in the final IWLCA rankings.

Paw Prints: UAlbany's Nikki Branchini is the fifth Great Dane to receive America East Conference Scholar-Athlete of the Year in women's lacrosse since the program joined the conference in 2002 ... Olivia Jarem (2010), Kate Fontana (2007) and Theresa Masse (2002, 2003) were also honored.

Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

University of Albany First Baseman Gina Mason Named to 2011 ECAC Division I Softball All-Star Team - UAlbany Sports 2011

Centerville, Mass. - University at Albany's Gina Mason has been named to the 2011 Eastern College Athletic Conference (ECAC) Division I Softball All-Star First Team, as announced by the conference on Thursday, July 7. Coaches within the ECAC membership voted on the teams and individual awards.

Mason, an All-America Conference first-team infielder, led the Great Danes to their fourth conference championship and an NCAA Tournament this season. The senior from Sacramento, Calif. was also recently named to the National Fastpitch Coaches' Association All-Region Team.

The first baseman, who led UAlbany in all major offensive categories, batted .404 this season, with 55 hits, 27 runs scored and 29 RBI. She led the team with 11 doubles and five home runs, while also posting a .640 slugging percentage and going 4-for-4 on stolen base attempts. A .317 career hitter, Mason ranks second in RBIs (129) and doubles (36) among the school's all-time leaders, plus tied for second in home runs (26).

A journalism major who will be attending Iona College next fall for graduate school, Mason maintained a 3.38 cumulative grade point average en route to being named to the America East Conference All-Academic Softball Team.


Courtesy: UAlbany Athletics

Stephanie Klein Named an NGCA Division I All-American Scholar-Athlete

Coral Springs, Fla. - University at Albany's Stephanie Klein has been named to the 2010-11 National Golf Coaches Association Division I All-American Scholar-Athlete team, as announced by the organization on Monday. A total of 566 women's collegiate golfers, across all three NCAA divisions were recognized. The criteria for selection to the NGCA All-American Scholar Team are some of the most stringent in all of college athletics. The minimum cumulative GPA is 3.50.

Klein finished with a three-round total of 254, including a team-best round of 80 on the final day of play, to lead UAlbany to a fourth-place finish at the 2011 Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference Golf Championships. She finished the spring averaging 87.18 over nine rounds of play. Klein was also second on the team in the fall season, posting an 85.20 average in six tournaments.

Klein, who was also named to the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference Academic Honor Roll, maintains a 4.00 cumulative grade point average as a pre-medicine major.

Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information