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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Casey Wright Named America East Conference Volleyball Player of the Week

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

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

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

University of Albany Football: Championship Subdivision Football (FCS)


UAlbany FCS Football Homepage

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NEXT GAME

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

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


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2011 UAlbany FCS Football Schedule:

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


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Gameday Live Media Coverage:

FoxSports Radio - Great Dane Football
Webcast
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Pregame Media Coverage:

Big Purple Fans - UAlbany Fan Board


Coach's Corner:




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Central Conn State: Championship Subdivision Football (FCS)


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2011 Schedule:

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


Stadium:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2011 UAlbany FCS Football Gameday vs Robert Morris - 10/15/11

University of Albany Football: Football Championship Subdivision (FCS)


UAlbany FCS Football Homepage

UAlbany FCS Football Roster

UAlbany FCS Football Stats

UAlbany FCS Football Media Guide

UAlbany FCS Football Game Notes



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NEXT GAME

Date: October 15, 2011
Time: 1pm
Opponent: Robert Morris
Location: University of Albany – Albany, NY
Facility: University Field
Directions
Tickets

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


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2011 UAlbany FCS Football Schedule:

Sat, Sep 3 at Colgate L 34-37 --
Sat, Sep 17 Maine L 15-31 --
Sat, Sep 24 at Columbia W 44-21 --
Sat, Oct 1 at St. Francis (PA) W 41-20 --
Sat, Oct 8 Duquesne W 38-10 --
Sat, Oct 15 Robert Morris 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
Dane Zone Webcasting

UAlbany Live Stats


Pregame Media Coverage:

Big Purple Fans - UAlbany Fan Board


Coach's Corner:




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Robert Morris Football: Football Championship Subdivision (FCS)


Football Homepage

Football Roster

Football Game Notes

Football Media Guide

Football Stats


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2011 Schedule:

Sat, Sep 3 Dayton L 13-19 --
Sat, Sep 10 at Liberty L 7-38 --
Sat, Sep 17 at Morgan State L 12-13 --
Sat, Oct 1 at Monmouth W 23-20 --
Sat, Oct 8 St. Francis (PA) W 45-14 --
Sat, Oct 15 at Albany 1:00 pm --
Sat, Oct 22 Bryant 12:00 pm --
Sat, Oct 29 Sacred Heart 12:00 pm --
Sat, Nov 5 at Central Connecticut State 12:00 pm --
Sat, Nov 12 Wagner 12:00 pm --
Sat, Nov 19 at Duquesne 12:00 pm --

UAlbany FCS Football's Defensive Tackle Zach Gallo Selected Northeast Conference Defensive Player of the Week

Somerset, N.J. - University at Albany's Zach Gallo has been selected Northeast Conference Defensive Player of the Week on Monday, Oct. 10 for his performance in last Saturday's 38-10 victory over Duquesne at University Field. Additionally, Paul Layton has been named College Football Performance Awards national punter of the week for the second time this season.

Gallo, a senior defensive tackle from Sayville, N.Y., made five tackles with one sack and a forced fumble in the showdown with league-leader Duquesne. The Dukes, who entered the contest averaging 33.8 points and 470.8 yards per game, were held to season-lows by a UAlbany opponent in total yards (235), rushing yards (91) and first downs (9).

Gallo, a 6-foot, 265-pound defender, twice wiped out scoring threats by the nation's fifth-ranked offense. With Duquesne facing a fourth-and-one at UAlbany's 34-yard line early in the second quarter, Gallo blew by his blocker and dropped preseason all-conference running back Larry McCoy for no gain. Early in the fourth quarter, Gallo spoiled the Dukes' first-down opportunity from the Great Danes' 29 by forcing McCoy to fumble. Gallo is tied for sixth on the team in tackles with 24 and needs one to reach the 100-career mark as a collegian.

Layton, a sophomore from Burnt Hills, N.Y., averaged 55.7 yards in three punting attempts against Duquesne. He nailed a 66-yard quick kick in the second quarter and had punts of 50 and 51 yards in the third period. Layton, who has 12 punts of 50 or more yards this season, is second among the NCAA Division I FCS leaders with a 47.4 average.

Paw Prints: UAlbany and Robert Morris will meet on Saturday, Oct. 15 with first place in the Northeast Conference standings on the line ... kickoff is 1:07 p.m. on Homecoming/Fall Festival Weekend ... the game will be televised on Time Warner Cable Sports, with Rodger Wyland and Zach Bye providing the coverage ... UAlbany's Bob Ford and Robert Morris' Joe Walton each started their programs ... Ford recorded his 250th win as a college head coach last Saturday and is second only to Penn State's Joe Paterno in career victories among active Division I FBS or FCS coaches ... Walton, the from New York Jets' head coach from 1983-89, is in his 18th season at Robert Morris and has a 105-73-1 record ... QB Dan Di Lella was the College Sports Madness' NEC Player of the Week after he passed for 176 yards and two touchdowns and rushed for a career-high 90 yards against Duquesne ... UAlbany's offense racked up more than 400 yards for the third straight game, a first since the 2003 season ... TB Andrew Smith recorded his third consecutive 100-yard rushing effort ... Steve Checksfield, a two-sport star in baseball and football, will one of four former athletes enshrined in the UAlbany Athletic Hall of Fame on Friday ... Checksfield was a first team All-NEC tight end in UAlbany inaugural season at the Division I FCS level in 1999.

UAlbany's Brooke Stanley & Samantha Brostrom Earn America East Weekly Volleyball Awards

Cambridge, Mass. - University at Albany's Brooke Stanley has been chosen America East Conference Setter of the Week in women's volleyball, as announced on Monday, Oct. 10 by the conference office. In addition, freshman outside hitter Samantha Brostrom was tabbed as the conference rookie of the week.

Stanley, a senior from Hendersonville, N.C., has earned the league's setter award in four of the last five weeks. She led the Great Danes to a three-set sweep over America East opponent Providence on Oct. 7. Stanley totaled 49 assists, eight digs, three service aces and three kills and led an attack that hit .466 as a team for the match. She is first among the America East leaders at 11.87 assists per set.

Brostrom, who hails from Ellicott City, Md., received the conference rookie-of-the-week award for the second time this season. She registered a double-double with 11 kills and 12 digs against Providence, plus had just two errors in 17 chances for a .529 hitting percentage. Brostrom is tied for eighth in hitting percentage (.304) and is 10th in kills (2.87 per set) among the America East leaders.

UAlbany (10-7, AE 4-0) is tied with New Hampshire for first place in the conference standings. The Great Danes have won 10 of their last 11 matches.

Jacky Ubert Chosen America East Conference Women’s Soccer Rookie Of the Week

Cambridge, Mass. - University at Albany's Jacky Ubert has been named America East Conference Rookie of the Week in women's soccer, which was announced on Monday, Oct. 10 by the conference office. Ubert, a freshman goalkeeper, is being recognized as rookie of the week for the first time this season.

Ubert strung together two solid performances in net this past week against Vermont and Binghamton. Ubert, an Amityville, N.Y. native, tallied a total of 13 saves and allowed only one goal in the two games. She accrued a .929 save percentage and recorded her first complete shutout of her career vs. Vermont.

Pomare Te Anau Named America East Conference Men’s Soccer Rookie Of The Week

Cambridge, Mass. - University at Albany's Pomare Te Anau has been named America East Conference Rookie of the Week in men's soccer, which was announced on Monday, Oct. 10 by the conference office. Te Anau is being honored as rookie of the week for the second time this season.

An Auckland, New Zealand native, Te Anau helped secure a conference point for the Great Danes in the 68th minute vs. Hartford in a 1-1 double-overtime tie on Oct. 8. The freshman midfielder now has four goals and 11 points on the season. His totals leads all America East rookies and is tied for fourth overall in points (11), tied for third in goals (4) and tied for seventh in assists (3).

University of Albany Field HockeyPosts Stroke-off Win Over UMass; McConville & Voormolen Convert in Penalty Period - UAlbany Sports 2011

Albany, N.Y. - Sophomores Corrine McConville and Daphne Voormolen each tallied in the penalty stroke-off competition and Kristi Troch denied all four UMass penalty stroke attempts to lead University at Albany to a 1-0 victory over the University of Massachusetts on Sunday afternoon.

The teams played to a scoreless regulation and two overtime periods, sending the game to a penalty stroke-off shootout. Both teams would miss on their first attempt. UAlbany (10-5) connected on the next two attempts, while UMass (3-9) could not get a shot past Troch, ending the shootout in UAlbany's favor, 2-0.

Goalkeeper Kristi Troch made five saves, including three in the second overtime frame. The Great Danes had a 20-8 shot lead, with McConville and Voormolen leading the team with six and seven, respectively. Additionally, UAlbany had 20 penalty corner attempts to UMass' four, nine of which were awarded during the overtime frames.

Minutewomen goalkeeper Alesha Widdall made twelve saves in her complete-game effort. Kim Young and Nicole Cordero combined for all five UMass shots on goal.

"Great team effort for the Great Danes to overcome a really good UMass squad," said UAlbany Head Coach Phil Sykes. "UMass' goalkeeper is outstanding and continually shut us down. After yesterday's conference game, we came out looking for another win."

UAlbany will meet conference opponent Vermont Friday, October 14 for a home match beginning at 4:00 p.m. followed by a home game on Sunday, October 16 taking on Delaware.

University of Albany's Dunn Nets Game-Winner Over Vermont In Conference Match - UAlbany Sports 2011

Burlington, Vt.- After a failed clear by Vermont, UAlbany's sophomore midfielder Katie Dunn in the 85th minute found the back of net to give the UAlbany women's soccer team a 2-1 victory over Vermont on Sunday, Oct. 9 at Centennial Field. The Great Danes look to continue their two-match America East Conference winning streak on Thursday, Oct. 13 against the hosting UMBC Retrievers.

Vermont (4-7-4, AE 2-2-1) began the first half with a quick goal by sophomore forward Ellie Mills in the 9th minute to give the Catamounts a 1-0 lead.

UAlbany (4-9-0, AE 2-2-0) responded back in the 34th minute when senior forward Katie Grant was able to find the loose ball in the box and redirect it in the net to tie the match, 1-1. Both teams had four shots in the first half and Vermont led in corners, 3-2.

The Great Danes took over in the second half as they put six shots on net to the Catamounts two and were able to keep the corners even at two. The decisive shot on net was in the 85th minute when Dunn struck the game-winning goal after a failed clear by a Catamount defender.

UAlbany's freshman goalkeeper Jacky Ubert recorded four saves on five chances. Vermont's sophomore goalkeeper Sarah Leiby tallied nine saves on 11 chances.

University of Albany’s Aubrey Brooks and Sarah Iannone Grab Flight B Doubles Title at Marist Invitational - UAlbany Sports 2011

Poughkeepsie, N.Y. -- Aubrey Brooks and Sarah Iannone captured the Flight B doubles title to highlight the University at Albany's women's tennis team's performance at the Marist Invitational. The Great Danes' doubles tandem defeated Providence's Taylor Ahlborn and Caitlyn Foley in the finals by a score of 8-6 in a pro set.

After receiving a bye in the first round, Brooks and Iannone won their first match by upending St. Peter's Adina Ungurean-Halagian and Linnea Enoh-Jansson, 9-7. UAlbany's doubles squads of Livia Gherman and Cheryl Kukkonen and Rachel Drake and Kirsten Scott all were able to win their first-round matchups in Flight A and Flight C, respectively. Drake and Scott got past Marist's Kayla O'Donovan/Joanna Macaluso, 8-3, in the semifinals, before falling to Providence's Elisabetta Dewitt/Ali Carnall, 9-8 (7-2), in the finals. In the Flight A doubles, Gherman/Kukkonen won their first match versus a St. Peter's team, 8-0 on Saturday, before losing to Providence's Marisela Aviles/Maria Clara Bernardez, 8-0.

In the four singles classifications, Drake was the only Great Dane to move past the second round with a win in Flight D over St. Peter's Jessica Nowogrodski, 6-2, 6-2. Drake then lost in straight sets to Providence's Betta Dewitt in the semifinals, 6-1, 6-0.

"This was the first real singles competition we've played this fall and I thought we competed well," said UAlbany coach Gordon Graham, who is in his first season. "Everyone played well in patches, which is good to see. We just have to keep working to sustain these higher levels of play longer. Our doubles was a little ahead of our singles, which makes sense since we played mostly doubles at the Eastern Championships. It was great to see Rachel (Drake) win her main draw match. She's been working hard."

The Great Danes prepare for their rescheduled dual match vs. Fairleigh Dickinson at the FDU Tennis Courts in Teaneck, N.J., a 4:00 p.m. start on Friday, Oct. 14.

University of Albany Captures 4-0 America East Field Hockey Win Over Fairfield; Patrick Has One Goal & One Assist - UAlbany Sports 2011

Albany, N.Y. - Daphne Voormolen scored the game winning goal in the 9th minute of the match off a shot from the top of the circle with assists from Chantae Miller and Christina Patrick. Three other University at Albany players would tally en route to a 4-0 America East Conference victory over Fairfield on Saturday afternoon.

UAlbany (9-5, 1-1 AE) secured the win with three second half goals, after taking a 1-0 lead early in the first stanza from Voormolen's hard shot off a penalty corner attempt. Christina Patrick tallied her twelfth goal on the season in the 50th minute; with a rebound opportunity from Karlijn van Dijsseldonk's shot. Four minutes later van Dijsseldonk would again take advantage of a close-range rebound to register her third goal on the season and give UAlbany a 3-0 lead. To finalize all scoring, junior defender Taylor Luke took a long shot from the left side of the circle with a bouncing pass from Corrine McConville at the 61:54 mark.

The Great Danes had 16 shots on target, as Voormolen tallied a season-high seven. The Stags had three shots in the match. With the loss, Fairfield falls to 8-4 on the season and 0-2 in America East play.

In between the pipes, Fairfield's Maddy Sposito made 12 saves, while UAlbany's Kristi Troch made two saves for her third shutout this season. With the shutout, Troch moves to second place in the program's single-season record, behind 2008 graduate Ashley Ross who had five shutouts in three of her seasons as a Great Dane.

"We prepared for a tough challenge against this Fairfield team; we are excited with today's win," said UAlbany Head Coach Phil Sykes. "Collectively our defensive was excellent, giving us the scoring opportunities to secure the win."

University of Albany FCS Football's QB Dan Di Lella Passes & Runs in Duquesne Victory; Bob Ford Records 250th Career Win - UAlbany Sports 2011

Albany, N.Y. - Quarterback Dan Di Lella passed for two touchdowns and added a career-high 90 rushing yards in leading UAlbany to a 38-10 Northeast Conference victory over Duquesne on Saturday, Oct. 8 at University Field. UAlbany's Bob Ford recorded his 250th career win at the collegiate level, the winningest active coach on the Division I FCS level.

The Great Danes jumped out to a 21-0 lead in the opening 12 minutes of play. Andrew Smith, a junior tailback who ran for 101 yards on 23 carries, did the bulk of the work on his team's first possession and capped the drive with a one-yard touchdown run. Free safety Justin Hassan intercepted Duquesne quarterback Sean Patterson's first pass of the game in the left flat to set up the following score. Di Lella completed all three passes on the short drive, including a one-yard toss to tight end Paul Booker for a 14-0 advantage.

After UAlbany (3-2, NEC 2-0) forced a three-and-out, the Great Danes went 82 yards in 10 plays to the end zone. Di Lella used his legs to help the offense overcome a holding call by running for 14 and 18 yards on consecutive plays. Dillon Romain capped the sequence with a one-yard blast over the right side.

Duquesne (4-2, NEC 2-1) trailed 24-0 at halftime, but tried to claw its back into the contest with a 10-point third quarter. Charlie Leventry booted a 41-yard field early in the period. Patterson later hooked up with wide receiver Connor Dixon on a 35-yard touchdown pass in a third-and-one situation.

Romain's 43-yard return with the subsequent kickoff sparked an eight-play drive from midfield. On fourth-and-six at the Dukes' 35, Smith took a direct snap on a faked punt for 10 yards and a first down. Romain, a sophomore tailback, followed with a 16-yard burst, before Di Lella threw an 8-yard scoring pass to Cole King on the first play of the fourth quarter and a 31-10 cushion.

"I felt someone jump on my back and I knew I had to get their now (to the first down)," explained Smith about the faked punt. "This was a championship-type game. Some people were picking them to go to the FCS playoffs. We jumped on them quick and it was a statement win."

The Great Danes' forced five turnovers on the day, including four interceptions. Cornerback Leon Saddler picked off a Patterson pass that led to final touchdown. Reserve quarterback Buddy Leathley reached paydirt on a one-yard sneak to cap a nine-play series with 2:44 remaining.

"The UAlbany defense has been No. 1 (in our conference) in recent years and we are trying to get back to that spot," said senior defensive tackle Zach Gallo, who had five tackles, forced a fumble and stopped a fourth-down run in his own territory during the second quarter. "They are one of top offenses in the nation and we knew what we wanted to do. The seniors told everyone that great teams finish games."

Patterson completed 15 of 24 pass attempts for 144 yards for the Dukes, who entered the contest with a four-game win streak. Larry McCoy, the nation's third-leading rusher, was limited to 75 yards on 20 carries and his team mustered just nine first downs. Di Lella was 19-of-25 through the air for 176 yards.

"It's a combination of a great staff and great young people who believe in what you are doing," said Ford about his 250th win. "There were moments today where we did all the right things. We ran consistently and at times the defense was phenomenal."

Paw Prints: UAlbany's Bob Ford is in his 43rd season as a college head coach and has a 250-176-1 career record ... the Great Danes rushed for more than 300 yards (301) for the first time since the 2008 Gridiron Classic against Jacksonville ... TB Andrew Smith has run for 100-plus yards in three consecutive games ... PK Herb Glass became the fourth UAlbany player to score 200 or more career points (202) ... Duquesne's offense was among the Division I FCS leaders in scoring (33.8 ppg) and total yards (470.8 pg) entering the contest ... DE Marc Wargo (hand), TB Dillon Romain (shoulder), FS Justinian Mason (concussion) and DE Eddie Delaney (hip) all returned to the field after missing time with injuries ... Romain accounted for a season-high 104 all-purpose yards.

University of Albany Records Three-Set Sweep of Providence in America East Volleyball Action - UAlbany Sports 2011

Albany, N.Y. - Samantha Brostrom recorded a double-double as one of four players with double-digit kills, leading UAlbany to a three-game sweep of Providence in America East Conference volleyball action on Friday evening at University Gym. The Great Danes posted set scores of 25-17, 25-15 and 25-18 to remain undefeated in league play.

The teams played a back-and-forth start to the first set, exchanging points to tie the set seven times in the early going. UAlbany finally took control on a kill by Gabby Whitworth. Laurie Gonzalez took over the service game and served for six straight points to put the Great Danes ahead, 16-10. A service error and a kill by Shelagh Dolan ended the rally for Providence, but Traci Vandegrift and Casey Wright put down consecutive kills to keep UAlbany in control. Dunja Prgomet recorded a service ace to put the Great Danes up 20-13, and force the Friars to take a timeout. UAlbany got to set point on a Whitworth kill, but Lauren Fletcher took an assist from Carly Morrison to tally a kill and keep the set going. Whitworth followed up with her third kill to end the set in UAlbany's favor.

Brostrom recorded one of her 11 kills to start the second set off a Providence serve, which gave the ball to Brooke Stanley behind the service line. The senior setter served for seven straight points, including two aces, to give UAlbany a commanding 8-0 advantage to start the set. The Friars were unable to recover from the early deficit, as back-to-back kills by Wright and Stanley increased the Great Danes' lead to 12-2. UAlbany continued to build upon its advantage, and consecutive kills by Wright triggered a timeout by the Friars. Providence came out of the break and got a kill by Lauren Hendel, and the Friars pulled within 21-14 on a UAlbany attack error and a kill by Dolan. However, the Great Danes continued to rally, and got two kills by Brostrom to end the set.

Fletcher tallied back-to-back kills to start the third set, but Vandegrift recorded a kill to give UAlbany control. The Great Danes put Brostrom behind the service line, and the freshman served for 10 straight points, getting two kills from Prgomet and blocks by Vandegrift and Whitworth, as well as serving up an ace, putting UAlbany up, 12-2. Providence called a time out, and came back to score four straight points to cut the deficit to 12-6. Dolan produced a kill and later a service ace to attempt a Providence rally, but UAlbany would not fold. The Great Danes got to match point on a kill by Vanessa Sheffield at 24-14, but the Friars recorded four points to keep the match in action. Wright tallied her 11th and final kill off an assist from Stanley to end the match.

Brostrom totaled 12 digs to complete her double-double, while Wright and Vandegrift each finished with 11 kills apiece. Prgomet added 10 kills, including a team-high five in the final set. Stanley, who finished with 49 assists and 8 digs, quarterbacked the Great Danes to a .466 hitting percentage, as there were five players who recorded a .500 hitting percentage or better. Gonzalez recorded a match-best 13 digs for the Great Danes.

Fletcher recorded a team-high nine kills for the Friars, while four different players recorded three digs. Morrison totaled 18 assists, and Fletcher added a team-high three block assists for Providence (6-14, AE 1-2).

UAlbany (10-7, AE 4-0) will return to action on Friday, Oct. 14, visiting Hartford in America East play.

University of Albany Field Hockey's Andy Thornton Named Head Coach of Men's National Indoor Team - UAlbany Sports 2011

Albany, N.Y. - University at Albany's Andy Thornton has been named the Men's National Indoor Field Hockey Head Coach, as recently announced by USA Field Hockey. Thornton is in his second year as UAlbany's associate head coach.

Thornton previously served as the Head Coach of the Women's National Indoor Team and under his direction, led the U.S. Team to a bronze medal at the Pan American Games in Venezuela last August and a silver medal in Argentina in 2008. Preparations will now begin for the 2012 Pan American Indoor Championships held in Puerto Montt, Chile.

"I am excited to accept the position as the Men's Indoor Head Coach and look forward to working with the team and the challenges ahead," Thornton said.

At UAlbany, Thornton is in his eighth season with the field hockey program. During his tenure he has helped guide the squads to two America East Conference championship teams and a 92-57 overall record. UAlbany holds an 8-5 record and has been among the nation's top 20 teams by the National Field Hockey Coaches Association throughout the current season.

In 2011, Christina Patrick leads UAlbany with 11 goals and five assists and is among Division I's top-25 active players in goals, assists and points. In the backfield, goaltender Kristi Troch has a 1.64 goals against average and .704 save percentage with two shutout wins in 13 starts. Junior defender Taylor Luke has registered three defensive saves.

Paw Prints: The Great Danes resumes America East Conference play this Saturday when conference foe Fairfield comes to Alumni Turf Field ... UAlbany is coming off a pair of one-goal losses to Maine and Syracuse, two teams ranked in the national top 10.

UAlbany's Chris Burke Named America East Conference Cross Country Performer Of The Week

Cambridge, Mass.- University at Albany's Chris Burke has been selected as the America East Conference Men's Cross Country Performer of the Week, as announced on Tuesday, Oct. 4 by the conference office.

Burke led the Great Danes to a third-place finish among 29 teams at the Greater Louisville Classic on Saturday, Oct. 1 at E. P Tom Sawyer Park. The senior finished in ninth among a field of 240 competitors with a time of 24:13.38 against some of the country's finest runners in the men's 8,000-meter gold race. Burke, a native of Tully, N.Y., established the best time by a UAlbany runner on an 8K course which was previously held by teammate junior Alex Leuchanka, who posted a mark of 24:37.99.
The Great Danes are off this weekend but prepare to host the 45th UAlbany Invitational on Saturday, Oct. 15 at the UAlbany Campus Course.

Brooke Stanley Named America East Volleyball Setter of the Week for Third Time

Cambridge, Mass. - Brooke Stanley was named the America East Conference Setter of the Week for the third time in the last four weeks, as announced by the league office on Monday afternoon. Stanley garnered the honor in back-to-back weeks in September, before guiding UAlbany to a 3-0 start in conference play.

Stanley quarterbacked the Great Danes to league wins over Stony Brook and UMBC over the weekend. UAlbany posted a .262 hitting percentage, a league high, while Stanley averaged a conference-best 11.00 assists per set. The senior setter also averaged 1.88 digs and 1.00 kills per set in the two matches. In a three-set sweep of Stony Brook on Friday, Stanley handed out 41 assists and added seven digs, two kills and a block assist as the Great Danes hit .333 as a team. In a comeback win over UMBC on Sunday, the native of Hendersonville, N.C. totaled 47 assists, eight digs, six kills and a block assist, while UAlbany hit .220 in the match.

UAlbany Wide Receiver Cole King Chosen Northeast Conference Football Rookie of the Week

Somerset, N.J. - University at Albany's Cole King has been selected as the Northeast Conference Rookie of the Week in football, as announced on Monday, Oct. 3 by the conference office.

King, a redshirt freshman wide receiver, caught five passes for 102 yards and two touchdowns in last Saturday's 41-20 victory against Saint Francis, Pa. He became UAlbany's first 100-yard receiver since Oct. 24, 2009 and tied the program's FCS single-game record for TD receptions.

A native of Syracuse, N.Y., King hauled in a 19-yard scoring pass to break a 7-7 tie with 2:42 remaining in the second quarter. He added a 49-yard touchdown grab on the first play of the fourth period that gave the Great Danes a 31-13 advantage.

King, who is the son of former Cincinnati Bengals' 1985 first-round draft choice Emanuel King, has 12 receptions for a team-high 225 yards through four games this season.

Paw Prints: The Great Danes host Northeast Conference-leader Duquesne (4-1, NEC 2-0) on Saturday, Oct. 8 at 1:00 p.m. ... the Dukes are receiving votes nationally in both the Sports Network and FCS Coaches polls ... UAlbany has won 10 of 13 conference openers since joining the league after last Saturday's win at Saint Francis ... the Great Danes have scored 40 or more points in consecutive games for the first time since October 2003 ... Bob Ford recorded his 240th win as UAlbany's head coach ... Ford started the program at the club level in 1970 ... TB Andrew Smith has rushed for 100 or more yards in back-to-back games for the first time as a collegian ... WR Ryan Kirchner had a career-best 142 all-purpose yards against Saint Francis, including 94 on punt returns ... PK Herb Glass moved to fourth in career scoring with 194 points and is tied for first in career PATs (101) ... Paul Layton is fourth nationally with a 46.3 punting average.

Brostrom Leads University of Albany to 3-2 Win Over UMBC in America East Volleyball Action - UAlbany Sports 2011

Baltimore, Md. - Samantha Brostrom recorded a double-double of 14 kills and 10 digs to lead UAlbany to a 3-2 win over UMBC in America East Conference volleyball action on Sunday afternoon at RAC Arena. UMBC won the first two sets with identical scores of 25-18, before UAlbany won three straight with scores of 25-19, 25-16 and 16-14 to win the match.

UMBC built up an early 5-3 lead on a kill by Emily Vandegrift, and extended that advantage to 11-6, getting a kill by Katie Kelly, followed by a UAlbany attack error. After taking a timeout, UAlbany attempted to regroup, as Brostrom recorded a kill. The Great Danes pulled within 11-9 on a Retriever attack error followed by a block by Traci Vandegrift and Brostrom. However, UMBC would continue to roll, getting a solo block by Dalton Tolliver to pull ahead by five, 15-10. Brostrom then served for three straight points to pull the Great Danes to 17-13, but back-to-back block assists by the Retrievers would pull UMBC ahead to 22-17. Ali Loynachan gave UMBC set point with a kill, and Emily Vandegrift ended the first set in the Retrievers' favor.

The teams played a closer second set, tying the match twice before UMBC took control. After a kill by Dunja Prgomet set the score at 10-10, the Retrievers pulled ahead, 16-11, getting kills from Loynachan and Emily Vandegrift, while also taking advantage of three UAlbany errors. The Great Danes regrouped and pulled within two points, 16-14, on a Prgomet kill, but an attack error on the next play gave UMBC serve. Hannah Schmidt nailed three straight kills to put the Retrievers up by six, 20-14. A service error pulled UAlbany back within five, but Schmidt responded with another kill to hold off any Great Dane rally. Schmidt gave UMBC set point with an assist from Alexandria Spaay, but Gabby Whitworth recorded a kill of her own to extend the set. An attack error by the Retrievers pulled the Great Danes to within 24-18, but Loynachan smacked a kill to end the set.

After the break, UAlbany came out firing in the third set, pulling out to a 10-7 lead on a kill by Casey Wright, forcing UMBC to take a timeout. The Retrievers regrouped and Loynachan ended the Great Danes' rally, but Wright teamed up with Traci Vandegrift on the next play on a block to continue the team momentum. After a kill by Brostrom to pull UAlbany ahead, 18-14, she then served for three straight points, including a service ace, to extend the lead to 21-14. A kill by Prgomet gave UAlbany set point, which was ended on the next play on a Wright kill.

The Great Danes continued their momentum into the fourth, building up a 9-5 lead on a Brostrom kill. UMBC rallied back to tie the match at 11-11 with a block by Tolliver and Schmidt, but UAlbany rebounded, pulling ahead, 16-14 on a kill by Whitworth. Brooke Stanley took over the service game and served for six straight points to take a 22-14 lead. Traci Vandegrift avoided a block by Tolliver to get UAlbany to set point, and Laurie Gonzalez served up an ace to tie the match at 2-2.

Neither team would go down without a fight, as the final set was tied four times in the early going. Traci Vandegrift recorded a kill to tie the set at 9-9, then teamed up with Whitworth for a block to take the lead. Prgomet recorded consecutive kills to take a 12-9 lead, but UMBC rallied, getting back-to-back kills from Emily Vandegrift to tie the match for the fifth time at 13-13 and then take a one-point lead. After a Great Dane timeout, Stanley tied the set at 14-14. UAlbany moved to set point on a Retriever attack error, and ended the match on a block by Wright and Stanley to remain one of two undefeated teams in conference play.

Wright finished with 13 kills and four block assists for the Great Danes, while Traci Vandegrift added 11 kills on team-high .333 hitting and seven block assists. Prgomet added eight kills and was second on the team with 14 digs, while Gonzalez recorded a match-high 25 digs. Stanley played a strong all-around match, totaling 47 assists, eight digs, six kills and one block.

UMBC (11-7, AE 1-2) was led by Emily Vandegrift with 16 kills, while Loynachan recorded a double-double of 10 kills and 13 digs. Tolliver added 12 kills, while Spaay added a double-double of 50 assists and 12 digs. Ali Goc totaled 14 digs, and Kat Lincalis reached double-digit dig figures with 10 on the defensive side. Schmidt also finished with 10 kills for the Retrievers.

Dan Di Lella Throws Three TD Passes in University of Albany's 41-20 Win to Begin NEC Conference Play - UAlbany Sports 2011

Loretto, Pa. - Dan Di Lella threw a career-high three touchdowns passes and UAlbany added more than 200 yards on the ground in a 41-20 victory over Saint Francis, Pa. in the Great Danes' Northeast Conference opener on Saturday, Oct. 1 at DeGol Field.

UAlbany (2-2, NEC 1-0) overcame a rash of penalties and rainy conditions to break a 7-7 deadlock in the late stages of the opening half. After a personal foul backed up the Great Danes, Di Lella directed his team on 68-yard drive. The senior quarterback hit Jameel Gay with a first-down completion to keep the sequence alive. He added a 15-yard run before hooking up with wide receiver Cole King on a 19-yard touchdown. King outleaped cornerback Calvin Bain while falling backward in the end zone.

Ryan Kirchner was key figure after UAlbany's defense recorded a three-and-out. Kirchner returned the subsequent punt 27 yards to set his team up in Red Flash territory. After Di Lella connected with tailback Andrew Smith on a screen pass, the 6-foot-5 signal-caller fired a seven-yard scoring strike to Kirchner on a slant pattern from the left for a 21-7 lead.

"We did a lot of positive things on offense, but the penalties kept the game interesting," said UAlbany coach Bob Ford, whose team was flagged 14 times for 145 yards. "We need to tackle better and have more discipline. (Ryan) Kirchner has the ability to make the first guy miss. He has good quickness and great hands."

Saint Francis (1-4, NEC 0-3) hung around in the third quarter. Austin Miele's interception and 45-yard return led to one of two field goals by Josh Thiel in the period. The junior placekicker's second kick of 25 yards closed the gap to 24-13 with 0:38 seconds left in the stanza.

The Great Danes, who have won 10 of 13 conference openers since joining the league in 1999, answered with a quick-strike touchdown. After Clay Harris' 40-yard kickoff return, Di Lella followed two plays later with a long, scoring strike to King. The UAlbany quarterback faked a swing pass in the left flat and delivered a 49-yard TD.

UAlbany's Herb Glass booted a 46-yard field goal midway through the final quarter and Omar Osbourne added a 4-yard touchdown run to close out their team's scoring. Osbourne, a redshirt freshman, ran for a career-best 89 yards on 19 carries. Saint Francis' John Kelly, who completed 11 of 29 attempts, found Jeff Wasilewski with a 16-yard scoring pass in the quarter.

"It's hard to conduct drives when you are moving backwards on penalties," offered Kirchner, who caught four passes and totaled a career-best 142 all-purpose yards. "Dan Di Lella played great and was calm in the pocket. He is very smart and has great tools, especially when you give him time to work."

Each team reached paydirt on its first offensive series of the game. The Great Danes delivered a 14-play march that was capped by Smith's four-yard run out of a two tight-end alignment. Smith rushed for 113 yards on 20 carries on the day. Saint Francis followed with a 66-yard drive. Kelly scored on the 10th play when he scambled to the right and crossed the goal line on a 12-yard scamper. The Red Flash's Kyle Harbridge, the nation's top FCS rusher, was held to 32 yards.

Paw Prints: UAlbany coach Bob Ford recorded his 240th career win as the school's head coach ... the Great Danes have won all 13 meetings in this series ... UAlbany piled up more than 200 yards running and passing for the second straight week ... QB Dan Di Lella threw for 193 yards on 14-of-23 passing ... WR Cole King had his best day as a collegian with five receptions for 102 yards and two TDs ... King is the first UAlbany receiver to topple the 100-yard mark since Oct. 24, 2009 ... Saint Francis coach Chris Villarial was an NFL All-Pro offensive lineman with the Chicago Bears and Bufffalo Bills.


Courtesy: UAlbany Athletics

University of Albany Sweeps Stony Brook in America East Conference Volleyball Action - UAlbany Sports 2011

Stony Brook, N.Y. - Casey Wright recorded 16 kills on .652 hitting to lead UAlbany to a 3-0 sweep of Stony Brook in America East Conference volleyball action on Friday evening at Pritchard Gymnasium. The Great Danes defeated the Seawolves with set scores of 25-19, 25-21 and 25-11.

In the first set, Stony Brook jumped out to an early 9-3 lead, taking advantage of three UAlbany errors and getting three kills by Alicia Nelson. A bad set by the Seawolves gave service back to the Great Danes, where Dunja Prgomet recorded a service ace, followed by consecutive kills by Casey Wright, pulling UAlbany within 9-7. The Great Danes tied the set at 12-12 on back-to-back Stony Brook errors, and the two teams tied the set up four more times before UAlbany took control. Wright took an assist from Brooke Stanley to give the Great Danes a 17-16 advantage, before Gabby Whitworth recorded two kills to put UAlbany up, 19-16, and force Stony Brook to take a timeout. Another kill by Prgomet gave Stanley the service game, where she served for three straight points to build a 23-17 lead. The Great Danes got to set point on another Prgomet kill, but Nelson responded with a kill of her own to extend the set. Traci Vandegrift ended the set in the Great Danes' favor.

The teams played a close second set, with nine ties in the early going before UAlbany took a decisive lead. A ball handling error by the Seawolves put the Great Danes up, 11-10, and Samantha Brostrom served for two points to give UAlbany a three-point advantage. The Great Danes continued to build their advantage, getting ahead, 17-13, on a Wright kill. Stony Brook began to rally back, getting kills by Nelson and Evann Slaughter, followed by a UAlbany attack error that pulled the Seawolves to within 20-19. The teams exchanged kills before UAlbany got to set point after consecutive kills by Wright. Stanley set up the final attack attempt for Brostrom, who ended the set with a kill.

The Great Danes took their momentum into the third set, jumping out to an 8-3 lead on a kill by Wright. Vandegrift took over the service game for UAlbany, and served for seven straight points, including two aces, building up a 15-3 advantage. Nelson ended the rally for Stony Brook, and the Seawolves followed with a kill by Taylor Gillie, but a service error shut down the comeback. UAlbany continued to roll, building up a 20-9 lead on a solo block by Brostrom, which was followed by another Stony Brook attack error, giving the Great Danes a 12-point lead. Nelson tried to start a rally for the Seawolves, but Vandegrift and Wright followed with consecutive kills to give UAlbany set point. Abbey Wexel served up the Great Danes' fourth ace of the match to complete the three-set sweep.

Stanley finished with 41 assists and seven digs, while Laurie Gonzalez totaled 15 digs for the Great Danes. Brostrom and Vandegrift each finished with eight kills, while Progomet totaled seven kills and six digs. UAlbany hit .333 as a team, while holding Stony Brook to a .167 hitting percentage.

Nelson led Stony Brook (7-8, AE 1-1) with a match-high 18 kills and a .350 hitting percentage. Slaughter totaled six kills and five total blocks, leading the Seawolves to six team blocks. Laura Hathaway finished with 13 digs, while Kelsey Sullivan recorded 21 assists, four digs and two block assists.

UAlbany (8-7, AE 2-0) will return to action on Sunday, visiting UMBC in America East Conference play.


Courtesy: UAlbany Athletics

University of Albany's Herb Glass Named Semifinalist for National Football Foundation's Campbell Trophy - UAlbany Sports 2011

Dallas, Texas - University at Albany's Herb Glass has been named on Thursday, Sept. 29 as one of 127 candidates for the 2011 National Football Foundation National Scholar-Athlete Awards, presented by Fidelity Investments. The nominees also comprise the list of semifinalists for the William V. Campbell Trophy as the nation's best scholar-athlete. The NFF scholar program awards postgraduate scholarships based on both academic and athletic accomplishments

Glass, a senior placekicker who is among 33 nominees on the Division I Football Championship Subdivision list, has a 3.20 cumulative grade point average in a dual major of journalism and political science. He is expected to graduate in December and plans to attend law school. A Northeast Conference Fall Academic Honor Roll recipient, Glass recently raised funds and participated in the Northeastern New York/Capital Region Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation's Walk to Cure Diabetes. He is a candidate for the Fred Mitchell Outstanding Placekicker Award.

A native of Miller Place, N.Y., Glass recently became the UAlbany program's all-time scoring leader for placekickers. He is currently fifth on the overall career scoring chart with 183 points. Glass eclipsed the school record for career field goals (29) with a 34-yarder in the second quarter against Columbia on Sept. 24. He was named the Northeast Conference Special Teams Player of the Week for his performance against Colgate on Sept. 3 when he became the fifth UAlbany kicker to make two 40-plus yard field goals in a game.

Courtesy: UAlbany Athletics

UAlbany Invited to Play in Sears BracketBusters; Will Play Home Basketball Game on Feb. 17-19

Albany, N.Y. - University at Albany Vice President and Director of Athletics Lee McElroy announced on Wednesday, Sept. 28 that the men's basketball has been invited to play in the 10th annual Sears BracketBusters. The Great Danes, who are participating for the fourth time since 2006, are among 142 teams from 16 conferences selected to the pool. UAlbany is scheduled to have a home game at SEFCU Arena on the weekend of February 17-19, 2012.

Sears BracketBusters will feature 13 nationally televised games - on either ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU or ESPN3. For the seventh straight year, ESPNU will feature five Sears BracketBusters games, while ESPN or ESPN2 will televise up to six and ESPN3 will carry two. The 13 Sears BracketBusters matchups will be announced Monday, Jan. 30 with dates, times and networks. The television matchups are selected by ESPN, while a Committee of Conference Commissioners determines the additional non-televised games.

"BracketBusters has been a good event for our program and the University," said UAlbany coach Will Brown, whose team has been involved in a pair of thrilling finishes against Virginia Commonwealth and Boise State in previous years. "The game has provided great exposure due to ESPN's commitment. The series allows us to showcase college basketball in the Capital Region and provides for our students, alumni and fans to be involved in an exciting event."

Sears BracketBusters, named because of the success of the teams in NCAA Championship play, will provide the 26 televised teams an opportunity to play other top non-conference opponents three weeks before Selection Sunday. The 116 teams not selected for Sears BracketBusters will compete against each other through the same three days.

The 142-team field will feature teams from 16 conferences: 12 each from Colonial Athletic Association, Mid-American Conference and Southland; 11 each from Ohio Valley Conference and Big South; 10 each from Horizon League, Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference, Missouri Valley and Summit League; nine each from America East, Big Sky and Big West; eight from the Western Athletic Association; four from the Southern Conference; three from the MEAC; and two from the West Coast Conference.

As part of the agreement, all 13 of the Sears BracketBusters home teams in televised games, as well as the remaining 58 home squads, will play a return game at the home facility of their opponent in November or December of the 2013-14 season.

In 2010-11, UAlbany (16-16) finished the season with its highest win total in four years. The Great Danes' nine-win improvement was the second-best in the program's 97 seasons. UAlbany returns four starters from last year's squad. Logan Aronhalt and Mike Black, a pair of All-America East Conference guards, each ranked among the conference's scoring leaders at 14.6 and 12.3 points per game, respectively.

Courtesy: UAlbany Athletics