#19 UAlbany Field Hockey Records 3-1 Win Over Hofstra in Home Opener

ALBANY, N.Y. -- Junior midfielder Corrine McConville scored twice, including the gamewinner, to lead 19th-ranked UAlbany to a 3-1 win over Hofstra in non-conference field hockey action on Friday afternoon at Alumni Turf Field. It was the 2012 home opener for the Great Danes, who improved to 2-1 on the young season.

UAlbany scored first in the game, as Voormolen sent the ball across the front of the cage, where Chantae Miller got her stick on it, sending past Hofstra goalkeeper Kaitlyn De Turo, just over four minutes into play. McConville scored her first goal in the 16th minute on a penalty corner. Jessica Longstreth passed the ball out to Laura Page at the top of the circle, who stopped the ball and allowed McConville to send a hard shot into the back of the cage. Hofstra got on the board before the end of the half, as Ciara Weatherbee took an unassisted shot from the left side of the cage.

McConville added a final goal for the Great Danes on a penalty corner early in the second half. While the initial play was unsuccessful, McConville picked up the ball on the top right of the circle and connected, setting the final score.

UAlbany outshot the Pride, 14-6, and held a 5-2 advantage in penalty corners. De Turo made six saves in the cage for Hofstra (2-1), while UAlbany goalkeeper Kristi Troch stopped three shots between the pipes for the Great Danes.

UAlbany will have a week off before hosting nationally-ranked Michigan (Fri., Sept. 7) and Connecticut (Sun., Sept. 9) next weekend at Alumni Turf Field.

UAlbany's Liza Morgan Named First America East Field Hockey Rookie of the Week for 2012

Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

Cambridge, Mass. - Freshman forward Liza Morgan was named the first America East Conference Field Hockey Rookie of the Week for the 2012 season, as announced by the league office on Monday afternoon.

Morgan, a native of Denver, Pa., scored goals in each of her first two games in a Great Dane uniform, coming off the bench in both games over the weekend. Morgan, who scored on her only two shots of the weekend, brought 19th-ranked UAlbany to within one goals in Friday's 3-2 loss at Rutgers. She then scored the equalizer in the 36th minute at Delaware, helping the Great Danes go on to a 3-2 win in a shootout.

#19 UAlbany Field Hockey Defeats Delaware, 3-2, in Overtime Shootout

Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

Newark, Del. - Jessica Longstreth and Corrine McConville each converted shoot-out goals to lead #19 UAlbany to a 3-2 win over Delaware in non-conference field hockey action on Sunday afternoon at Rullo Stadium.

The game got out to a quick start, with Delaware netting the first goal just eight minutes into play, as Jackie Coveleski tipped a shot by Clare O'Malley into the cage past UAlbany goalkeeper Kristi Troch. The Blue Hens doubled their advantage three minutes later, as Troch made a save on a Delaware shot that resulted in a penalty stroke opportunity. Kelsey McKee converted the stroke to put the Blue Hens up, 2-0. UAlbany responded, getting two quick shots and a penalty corner. Longstreth collected a rebound from McConville's initial shot to close the gap to 2-1 in the 14th minute.

UAlbany tied the game at 2-2 just 46 seconds into the second half. Liza Morgan had the ball in front of the cage and slipped it past Delaware goalkeeper Sarah Scher for the unassisted tally. The teams played the remainder of the second half with the 2-2 score and moved onto overtime. The Great Danes controlled the overtime period, outshooting Delaware, 4-1, but were unable to find the back of the cage. With the score still knotted at 2-2, the game moved to a second overtime, again controlled by UAlbany, who managed four penalty corners and nine shots, but could not convert a score.

After 100 minutes of play, the two teams moved to a shoot out. UAlbany came out on top, 2-0, in the shoot out period, with Longstreth and McConville's attempts finding the back of the cage. The Great Danes outshot the Blue Hens, 32-13 in the game, and had an 11-4 advantage in penalty corners. Troch made four saves in the cage for UAlbany, while Scher made 15 saves, including stopping all nine of UAlbany's shots in the second overtime for Delaware (0-2).

UAlbany will return to action on Friday, hosting Hofstra in the home opener at Alumni Turf Field at 1 p.m.

UAlbany's Nowicki's Late Goal Helps Push Women's Soccer In 1-1 Tie Against Syracuse

Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

Syracuse, N.Y.- Senior forward Regina Nowicki scored her first goal of the season to give UAlbany the 1-1 draw against Syracuse on Friday, August 24 at SU Soccer Stadium. The tie puts UAlbany at 0-0-1 and will face UMass on Sunday, August 26 at 1pm on Rudd Field.

With the Great Danes down by one in the 72nd minute, Regina Nowicki received the ball from teammate Kelly Kempf in the top right corner of the goalkeeper box and lofted a shot just over the head of Syracuse goalkeeper Brittany Anghel to tie the game at one.

Both teams would have chances in both overtimes with the Orange tallying 10 shots (five on net) and the Great Danes with its lone shot on net. The match would end in a draw to give UAlbany its first overall point in the standings in non-conference play.

Syracuse would get on the scoresheet first with Hanna Strong scoring her first career goal in the 30th minute to put the Orange up 1-0. Senior forward Jenna Rickan set the play up in the middle with a throug ball straight to Strong's foot.

The Orange had the advantage in both shots, 22-6, and in corners, 13-0.

UAlbany goalkeeper Jackie Ubert made seven saves and Syracuse goalkeeper Anghel tallied three saves.

UAlbany Football Announces Its Move To The CAA For 2013

Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

Albany, N.Y.- The University at Albany's Vice President Athletic Administration and Director of Intercollegiate Athletics Dr. Lee McElroy and the commissioner of the Colonial Athletic Association Tom Yeager formally announced that the Great Dane football program will be joining the CAA for the 2013 season on Wednesday, August 8. UAlbany and New York state rival Stony Brook will join current CAA members Maine, New Hampshire, James Madison, Delaware, Richmond, William & Mary, Villanova, Rhode Island and Towson beginning next season.

UAlbany has had good success over CAA members, having tallied a 6-5 all-time record. The Great Danes have previously faced Delaware (1-1 record), Maine (3-2), Towson (2-1) and New Hampshire (0-1). The Great Danes will look to expand on its rivalry against Stony Brook, having played the Seawolves 15 times and tallying a record of 10-5 all-time.

For the 2012 season, the Great Danes will continue with their preseason camp, which wraps up on Saturday, August 25, and get ready for the Colgate Raiders at home on Saturday, September 1 at 6 pm at University Field.

UAlbany's Williams Named to 2012 FCS Preseason All-America Third Team by College Sporting News

Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

Albany, N.Y. - Junior offensive tackle Kadeem Williams was named to the 2012 FCS Preseason All-America Third Team by College Sporting News, as announced by the organization on Monday. Williams was one of 100 student-athletes at the Football College Subdivision level to earn Preseason All-America honors.

Williams is a 6-foot-7, 310-pound offensive lineman for the Great Danes. A native of Jersey City, N.J., Williams played in all 12 games for UAlbany as a redshirt freshman and was named to the Northeast Conference First Teamn after blocking for one of the top offensive teams at the FCS level.

UAlbany's Lyle Thompson Leads Iroquois National Team to 15-13 Win Over USA

Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

Turku, Finland - UAlbany's Lyle Thompson scored one goal to lead the Iroquois U19 National Team to a 15-13 win over USA at the Federation of International Lacrosse U19 World Championships, in the squad's first-ever defeat of the United States.

"It's hard to forget a game like this," said Thompson, who is a captain of the Iroquois team. "It means a lot to me, the team, our people."

In the final minutes, the ball was handed to Thompson, a rising sophomore for the Great Danes, for safekeeping. With four minutes left, the Iroquois gained possession and, out of a time out, Thompson started to kill clock and draw double teams. He passed it off, and only a Johnny Powless crease violation with about three minutes left turned the ball over.

The U.S. then had a man-up chance after an Iroquois push with under three minutes to play, but could not convert. The Iroquois regained possession and, after another time out with two minutes left, Thompson drew two penalties, helping the team tack on the game's last goal with 49 seconds to go.

With the win, the Iroquois finished pool play with 3-1 record, locked up the second seed for the medal rounds, and earned a bye to the semifinals

UAlbany's Layton and Kirchner Named to CPFA Watch Lists

Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

Albany, N.Y. - Paul Layton was named to the 2012 College Performance Football Awards Punter Watch List, while Ryan Kirchner was placed on the CPFA Punt Returner Watch List as announced by the organization. Layton is one of 36 punters, while Kirchner is among 36 other FCS punt returners on the list, from which national winners will be chosen at the conclusion of the 2012 season.

Layton, who hails from Burnt Hills, N.Y., finished the season sixth among the nation's punting leaders with a 42.6 average. He booted 17 kicks of 50 or more yards this season, and was named the Great Danes' Most Valuable Special Teams Player at the team banquet. Layton, who was named a 2011 ECAC Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) Special Team All-Star, was also named to the Northeast Conference First Team, and was the league's Special Teams Player of the Week on two occasions.

Kirchner, who will be a senior wide receiver in the fall, was UAlbany's leading receiver last season with 56 catches for 615 yards and 10 touchdowns. Kirchner is fourth on the program's career receptions list with 122, and needs just three more receptions to move into third place. He also returned 22 punts with a long of 36 yards. Kirchner was named to the All-Northeast Conference Second Team

The goal of College Football Performance Awards is to provide the most scientifically rigorous conferments in college football. Recipients are selected exclusively based upon objective scientific rankings of the extent to which individual players increase the overall effectiveness of their teams.

As prominent scholars from a wide variety of disciplines note, CFPA eliminates the politics and biases that vitiate balloting-based awards. Furthermore, CFPA has received praise from both Republican and Democratic White House officials for promoting objectivity and fairness in college football.

Suero Plays Against Team USA In Dominican Republic Loss

Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

Las Vegas, Nev.- Former UAlbany guard Gerardo Suero tallied seven points and three rebounds in 17 minutes in the Dominican Republic loss against Team USA, 113-59, on Thursday, July 12.

In three Olympic games for the Dominican Republic National team, Suero played in five games averaging 4.8 points, 3.6 rebounds and 0.8 assists a game. The former guard shot 42.1 percent from the field.

UAlbany's Sean Lucas Drafted by the Cincinnati Reds

Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

Albany, N.Y. - Senior lefthander Sean Lucas was chosen in the 25th round of the 2012 Major League Baseball Draft, as the 772nd overall player picked, on Wednesday, June 6. Lucas, who is the highest draft choice from the UAlbany program since 2002, becomes the eighth player in UAlbany history to be drafted, and gives the Great Danes a player in the last two MLB drafts. The hurler is also the second UAlbany player drafted by the Reds, as first baseman Mike Konstanty was chosen by the club in 2008.

Lucas, who transferred to UAlbany from Virginia, was one of the Great Danes' top starting pitchers this season, starting 14 games on the mound. He posted a 4-6 record with a 5.19 ERA, finishing second on the team with 53 strikeouts. Lucas was second with 76.1 innings of work, and was the starting pitcher in UAlbany's only shutout of the season, a 1-0, 10-inning win at Maine.

Pitcher Dave Kubiak went to the Tampa Bay Rays last season, going in the 36th round. Konstanty was drafted in the 39th round by the Cincinnati Reds, following Tom Hill, who was picked by the Kansas City Royals in the 34th round of 2007's draft. Terry Kenny was the first Great Dane to be drafted in 1974, when San Francisco selected him in the ninth round. In the Division I era, Steve Checksfield (Houston, 10th round) was drafted in 2001, Mike Grasso (Atlanta, 11th round) was picked in 2002 and Adam Kroft (San Diego, 30th round was chosen in 2004.

UAlbany Baseball in the MLB Draft (Division I era)



2001 - Steve Checksfield, Houston, 10th round



2002 - Mike Grasso, Atlanta, 11th round



2004 - Adam Kroft, San Diego, 30th round



2007 - Tom Hill, Kansas City, 34th round



2008 - Mike Konstanty, Cincinnati, 39th round



2011 - Dave Kubiak, Tampa Bay, 36th round



2012 - Sean Lucas, Cincinnati, 25th round

Giants Release 2012 Summer Training Camp Schedule At UAlbany

Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

Albany, N.Y. - The New York Giants and the University at Albany jointly announced on Wednesday, June 6 the training camp schedule for 2012, to take place on the UAlbany campus from July 26 through August 15. The team is returning to the Capital Region after a one-year absence due to the NFL lockout.

The New York Giants are traveling to UAlbany for the 16th summer, the longest period at one site in the team's training camp history. The Giants previously spent thirteen summers at Pace University in Pleasantville, N.Y. from 1975-87. The Giants, who have also trained in the states of Vermont, Connecticut, New Jersey, Wisconsin and Oregon, previously worked out at Fairleigh Dickinson University in Madison, New Jersey prior to their arrival on the UAlbany campus.

The Giants have trained on the UAlbany campus, just 2 1/2 hours north of their home facility, the Timex Performance Center in East Rutherford, N.J., since 1996. In the 15 years that the Giants have trained at UAlbany, the preseason camp has averaged more than 33,000 fans per summer. The camp attendance mark of 46,960 was established in 2009, and was the fourth time attendance surpassed 40,000-plus. One of the practice fields used is now known as Mara-Tisch Field, and was dedicated on Aug. 16, 2007 in honor of the team's late owners Wellington Mara and Robert Tisch.

In 2012, the Giants will report to camp on Thursday, July 26. Workouts will begin on Friday, July 27 with a single afternoon practice at 1:00 p.m. The three-week camp concludes on August 15. Giants training camp will feature 14 single practices, all at 1:00 p.m. The entire training camp schedule can be accessed through www.giants.com or www.ualbanysports.com.

Please note that due to current construction on the UAlbany campus, locations for practices and access has changed. For immediate updates and schedule changes, follow @Giants and @UAlbanySports on Twitter.



2012 New York Giants Training Camp Schedule

Thurs., July 26: Players Report



Fri., July 27: 1:00 p.m.



Sat., July 28: 1:00 p.m.



Sun., July 29: 1:00 p.m.



Mon. July 30: 1:00 p.m.





Tues., July 31: No Practice.





Wed., Aug. 1: 1:00 p.m.



Thurs., Aug. 2: 1:00 p.m.



Fri., Aug. 3: 1:00 p.m.



Sat., Aug. 4: 1:00 p.m.



Sun., Aug. 5: No Practice



Mon., Aug. 6: 1:00 p.m.



Tues., Aug. 7: 1:00 p.m.



Wed., Aug. 8: 1:00 p.m.



Thurs., Aug. 9: No Practice



Fri., Aug. 10: at Jacksonville, 7:30 p.m.



Sat., Aug. 11: No Practice



Sun., Aug. 12: 1:00 p.m.



Mon., Aug. 13: 1:00 p.m.



Tues., Aug. 14: 1:00 p.m.



Wed., Aug. 15: No Practice - Break Camp

Joe Resetarits Named USILA Division I Honorable Mention All-American

Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

Albany, N.Y. - After leading the Great Danes to the America East Championship, senior attackman Joe Resetarits was named a USILA Division I Honorable Mention All-American, as announced by the organization on Thursday, May 24.

Resetarits led UAlbany and the America East in scoring as a senior, tallying 47 goals and 19 assists for 66 total points. Resetarits scored a goal in every game in his career, running his streak to 50 consecutive games, ending with a tally in the America East Championship game this season.

Resetarits was named the America East Conference Player of the Year this season, and wrapped up his career with 27 hat tricks, which led all active players in 2012. Resetarits, who finished his career with 170 total points, was drafted by the Hamilton Nationals of Major League Lacrosse, and joined the team for its home opener on May 18

Great Danes On The Big Screen – UAlbany Men’s Lacrosse Well Represented in “Crooked Arrows”

Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

Albany, N.Y. - UAlbany men's lacrosse players Ty, Miles and Lyle Thompson, along with former standout Mike Banks, are all making appearances in "Crooked Arrows," Hollywood's first feature film about the sport of lacrosse. The movie, produced by J. Todd Harris, Mitchell Peck and Adam Leff, is set to open this Friday, May 18, with showings locally at Crossgates Cinema.

"Crooked Arrows" is a sports movie in the tradition of classics such as "The Mighty Ducks," "Hoosiers," and "Bend it Like Beckham." The film follows a Native American high school team as they compete in the Prep School League against better equipped and trained players. Led by newly anointed head coach Joe Logan, the Crooked Arrows learn about their heritage as Native American lacrosse players, and take their new-found potential to the state championship against Coventry Academy.

The Thompsons, who are current student-athletes on the UAlbany lacrosse team, are featured in the film as players on the Crooked Arrows squad. Brothers Miles and Lyle are members of the Onondaga Nation, while cousin Ty is a member of Mohawk Nation, both of which have several representatives in the film. Former Great Dane Mike Banks, a 2011 graduate of UAlbany, makes an appearance as a player on the Coventry Academy team.

More information about the film can be found at www.crookedarrows.com.

UAlbany Athletics Launches Multi-Sport Complex Webcam

Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

Albany, N.Y. - The University at Albany athletic department has launched its Multi-Sport Complex Webcam, allowing Great Danes fans to easily follow the construction of Bob Ford Field. The camera will take pictures now through the end of construction and will provide images that are archived throughout the process.

Using the camera control on the left side of the screen, visitors can zoom in and out and select archived images from the calendar. In addition, fans can click on the time lapse link and get an accelerated view of the process.

The University broke ground on the Multi-Sport Complex in April 2012. The project is phase I of a three-phase plan, replacing UAlbany's current football venue with a state of the art athletic and recreational complex.

The complex, which is east of the SEFCU Arena, on the site of the current soccer field, is scheduled to open in the fall of 2013. Upon completion, the complex will be home to the Great Danes' NCAA Division I football and men's and women's soccer teams.

Phase II includes the creation of a synthetic turf field designed for year-round recreational, intramural and club sport activities by the student body. This field will be located east of the campus tennis courts and south of Dutch Quad, and is expected to be completed in the fall of 2012.

Phase III will include repairs and upgrades to the track and field facilities, which is currently housed in the existing football venue.

http://www.ualbanysports.com/ViewArticle.dbml?&DB_OEM_ID=15800&ATCLID=205416910&KEY=&DB_OEM_ID=15800&DB_LANG=C&IN_SUBSCRIBER_CONTENT=

UAlbany School of Business

University of Albany Men's Track & Field Defends America East Title For The Eighth Consecutive Year - UAlbany Sports 2012

Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

Orono, Maine- UAlbany men's track and field team took home the gold at the America East Conference Championship with a team score of 181 on Sunday, May 6. The Great Danes completed the "Triple Crown" by winning the America East Cross Country, Indoor and Outdoor Track and Field Championships all in one year. The last time the triple crown was achieved was back in the 1988-89 season which was done by Northeastern.

The Great Danes took home five gold medals, one on the track and four in the field events. Kadeem Howell was highlighted as the Most Outstanding Field Performer with his 7.08 meter-mark in the long jump and the 14.73-meter mark that placed him first in the respective events.

On the track, the 4x100-meter relay team of Earnest Waters, Rashawn Simpson, Donald Williams Jr. and Jonathan Santana, Jonathan took home the gold with an IC4A qualifying time of 41.25.

In the field, Alexander Bowen took the high-jump crown with a mark of 2.10 meters. Alfonso Scannipieco took home first place in the pole vault with 4.95 mark.

Men - Team Rankings - 22 Events Scored

1) Albany 181

2) Binghamton 147

3) Boston U. 145.50

4) Maine 97.50

5) New Hampshire 84.50

6) UMBC 78.50

7) Vermont 56

8) Stony Brook 43

9) Hartford 23

University of Albany Women's Track & Field Takes Home Fourth Consecutive America East Crown - UAlbany Sports 2012

Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

Orono, Maine- UAlbany women's track and field squad defended its America East Conference Title for the fourth consecutive year with a team score of 185 on Sunday, May 6. The Great Danes coaching staff was named America East Conference Championship Coaching Staff of the Year.

On the track, Tynelle Taylor-Chase took home the gold in the 400-meter hurdles with an ECAC qualifying time of 1:00.62. Teammate Brittany Eveleth followed right behind Taylor-Chase in second with an ECAC qualifying time of 1:01.29.

The 4x400-meter relay team of Kamilah Williams, Brittany Eveleth, Tynelle Taylor-Chase and Allison Rogers continued its dominance on the track with a gold-medal finish time of 3.45.61 which was an ECAC qualifier. Brianne Bellon, Jonelle White, Sherez Mohamed and Kathryn Fanning finished first in the 4x800-meter relay with an ECAC qualifying time of 9:02.07.

In the field events, Patricia McNish took home golds in the long (6.00 meters) and triple jump (12.51 meters) both of which are ECAC qualifying marks. Catherine Coxon placed first in the discus throw with an ECAC qualifying mark of 47.34 meters.

Women - Team Rankings - 22 Events Scored

1) Albany 185

2) Boston U. 130

3) Binghamton 124.50

4) UMBC 105

5) Vermont 90

6) New Hampshire 88.50

7) Maine 56

8) Stony Brook 48

9) Hartford 30

University of Albany Repeats As America East Women's Lacrosse Champions - UAlbany Sports 2012

Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

Boston, Mass.- UAlbany's Mel Rorie, with her three-goal performance, was named America East Conference Championship MVP in the win over Stony Brook, 9-7, on Saturday, May 5 at Nickerson Field. The Great Danes have now won the last two America East Championships and will wait on Sunday, May 6 at 9 pm to find out who they will play in the NCAA Tournament.

Stony Brook, in the second half, came back with a resurgence to tie the game up 7-7 with 4:59 remaining. The Seawolves were led by a 5-2 run with Demmianne Cook's two points (1 goal, 1 assist) and capped by Claire Petersen's second goal of the game.

The Great Danes would take possession for the final four minutes of the game, as Maureen Keggins scored the game-winning goal at the 3:52 mark from a perfect pass by teammate Amanda Pollock. Pollock would then finish off with 11 seconds an open-net goal to give UAlbany its second NCAA apperance in as many years.

UAlbany goalkeeper Anna Berman (11-5) arguably played her best game between the pipes this season, shutting down the number one offense in the conference (14.38 goals per game) with five saves on 12 chances. Stony Brook goalkeeper Hannah Perruccio (6-4) also tallied five saves on 13 chances.

UAlbany (12-5) began the first half as it did in the America East Semifinals, 2-1, with 19:04 remaining. The first goal was setup up with Jess Antelmi receiving a pass from Amanda Pollock. Then Nicole Eamer from the back of the net made a perfect pass to a cutting Ariana Parker for the Great Danes second goal.

In between UAlbany's two goals, Stony Brook (14-5) made a bang-bang play with America East Player of the Year Claire Petersen making a great pass to teammate Demmianne Cook for her first goal of the postseason.

The Great Danes then went on a 3-0 goal stretch to extend its lead to four, 5-1, with 11 seconds remaining in the first half. Mel Rorie tallied two of the Danes three goals and teammate Amanda Pollock added two points in the mix, one goal and one assist.

Right before the half, the Seawolves Petersen went the entire half of the field of the draw to score in eight seconds to cut the deficit to three, 5-2, before the half ended. The Great Danes would lead the Seawolves in both shots, 11-6, and in ground balls, 8-4.

University of Albany Softball Completes Home-And-Away Series Sweep Over Siena - UAlbany Sports 2012

Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

Loudonville, N.Y.- Vicky McFarland and Alexa Toole each tally a home run en route to non-conference double header sweep over crosstown rival Siena, 8-0 and 6-2, on Tuesday, May 1 at Siena Field. UAlbany improves to 33-10 overall while Siena falls to 18-30.

Brittany MacFawn (17-4) threw her fourth consecutive one-hitter in game one, striking out 10 batters and not allowing one walk. This was MacFawn's eighth 10-plus strikeout performance of the season.

After through two scoreless innings, UAlbany (33-10) scored two in the top of the third with a Charlise Castro two-run double up the middle. Then in the fourth, the Great Danes would load up the bases and Siena pitcher Jessica Sandrini would walk in two more to add onto the deficit, 4-0.

Both McFarland and Toole would each hit two-run homers, one to deep center and one to right, in the top of the fifth to enforce the "eight-run" rule after MacFawn went 1-2-3 in the bottom half of the inning.

Game two, UAlbany jumped out to a 2-0 lead from a two-run double off the bat of catcher Kylie Apostolina.

Siena would cut into the lead, 2-1, with a Sandrini RBI-single to left to drive in Sarah Milligan.

The Great Danes would score four more, two in third, one in the fourth and one in the fifth, as insurance runs for Brittany Schwieger (14-4). Schwieger would allow just two runs in her 12th complete game, giving up seven hits and striking out seven.

UAlbany would finish out the 2012 season with its final America East weekend series against Stony Brook, beginning on Saturday, May 5 at Stony Brook, N.Y. (1pm).

Joe Resetarits Named America East Conference Men’s Lacrosse Player Of The Year - UAlbany Sports 2012

Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

Cambridge, Mass. - Senior attackman Joe Resetarits was named the 2012 America East Conference Men's Lacrosse Player of the Year, as announced by the league office on Tuesday afternoon. Resetarits led a group of nine Great Danes honored by the conference this season. The all-conference teams are voted on by the America East's head coaches, who cannot vote for their own players.

Resetarits was joined on the all-conference first team by senior long stick defender Travis Lyons. Sophomore attackman Miles Thompson, sophomore midfielder Cody Futia and senior faceoff specialist Keith Olson were all-conference second team honorees. Freshmen Mike Miller, Will Stenberg and Lyle Thompson all garnered all-rookie team accolades, while senior Daley Baker earned a spot on the all-academic squad.

Resetarits, who led the conference in scoring this season, also ranks fifth nationally with 4.21 points per game and 2.93 goals per game. A first-team selection for the third time in his career, Resetarits performed at an even higher standard during league play, averaging 5.60 points per game against America East Conference opponents. Resetarits, who earned Player of the Week honors on April 16, follows in brother Frank's footsteps, as he earned the Player of the Year honors in 2007.

Lyons led the Great Dane defense this season, picking up 35 ground balls, while also recording five assists, en route to his first all-conference selection. Miles Thompson earns all-league second team honors after finishing second in points with 52 after the regular season. The 2011 Rookie of the Year, Thompson has scored 30 goals and leads the Great Danes with 21 assists. Futia is making his first all-conference appearance after becoming one of UAlbany's most tenacious defenders. Futia played in 12 games this season, picking up 12 ground balls. Olson also earned the first all-conference accolades of his career after starting all 14 games in the faceoff circle this season. Olson picked up a team-high 62 ground balls and went 116-of-235 in faceoff attempts.

Myle Thompson followed brother Miles to an all-rookie selection this season, after finishing fourth on the team - behind Miles and cousin Ty - with 16 goals and 13 assists. He is also third on the team with 34 ground balls. Miller made an immediate impact on the UAlbany program, scoring one goal and adding four assists from the defensive side of the field. Stenberg has become a key component to the Great Danes' success in the conference schedule, and has tallied nine goals and five assists for 14 total points.

Baker, a public policy major, holds a 3.82 grade point average and is a starting defensive midfielder for the Great Danes. He has scored two goals for the Great Danes and has picked up 13 ground balls.

UAlbany (4-10, AE 3-2) is ranked third in the America East Conference Championship, and will take on second-ranked UMBC on Wednesday evening at 7:30 p.m.

Women's Track & Field Places First In Eight Events At The Capital District Classic - UAlbany Sports 2012

Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

Troy, N.Y.- UAlbany women's track and field squard was able to place eight first-place finishers at the Capital District Classic hosted by RPI on Saturday, April 28. The Great Danes featured an ECAC qualifying mark in the discus throw from Catherine Coxon.

In the field events, Catherin Coxon placed first in the discus throw with an ECAC qualifying mark of 43.80 meters.Teammates Samantha Kosa in the shot put (12.85 meters), Katie Dowd in the javelin throw (36.50), Michelle McCrae in the long jump (5.31 meters) and Rochelle Reid in the high jump (1.60) placed first in their respective events.

On the track, Tynelle Taylor-Chase finished first in the 100-meter hurdles with a time of 15.41. Melissa Del Rosario (4:56.45) and Brianna Service (4:56.53) finished one and two in the 1500-meter run. Emily Finnegan's time of 17:22.37 was good for first place in the 5000-meter run.

UAlbany women's track and field will continue its outdoor schedule on Saturday, May 5 for the America East Conference Championships in Orono, ME.

Men's Track & Field Takes Six Events In Capital District Classic Meet - UAlbany Sports 2012

Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

UAlbany men's track and field place first in six events at the Captial District Classic meet on Saturday, April 28. The Great Danes meet was highlighted in the 800-meter run, having eight of the top ten finishers.

On the track, UAlbany took the 800-meter run having placed eight of the first ten finishers as Tyler Fogarty led the charge with a time of 1:54.96. Then in the 1500-meter run, John DeLallo finished first with finals time of 4:00.58.

Shane Wagner took home first place in the 400-meter hurdles with a meet time of 54.03. Finally, in the 4x400-meter both "A" and "B" squads finished in the top two with "A" grouping finishing first with a time of 3:27.97.

In the field events, Nicolas Matteras placed first in the pole vault with a mark of 4.50 meters. Christopher Stevenson triple jump mark of 13.46 meters placed him first.

The Great Danes will continue the outdoor season with the America East Championships, beginning on Saturday, May 5 in Orono, ME.

UAlbany FCS Football: Defense Posts A 69-24 Win Over Offense In Spring Football Game - UAlbany Sports 2012

Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

Abany, N.Y. - Junior Dean Mercuris finished with four tackles, a sack for a four-yard loss and one forced fumble to lead the defense to a 69-24 over the offense in UAlbany football's annual Spring Game, held on Saturday afternoon at University Field. The squad completed 102 plays in the controlled scrimmage.

On the defensive side of the ball, freshman Nick Beach finished with a 25-yard interception return and recorded a tackle, while sophomore safety Justinian Mason added one tackle and an interception with a 26-yard return. Junior linebacker Dave Plungas recorded one sack for a 10-yard loss, and finished with one tackle, while freshman safety Ian Blair recorded two tackles and a 10-yard fumble recovery. Freshman defensive lineman Mike Smith finished with three of the defensive squad's 10 sacks. The Great Danes totaled 56 tackles and four interceptions.

Buddy Leathly led the quarterbacks, going 6-of-13 for 62 total yards, including a long pass of 49 yards to wide receiver Kevin Chillis. Will Fiacchi went 6-of-16 for 46 yards, with a long of 15 yards, also to Chillis. Freshman Ryan Smith completed four passes for 43 yards, as he ended the scrimmage with back-to-back passes of 12 and 30 yards, respectively. Ryan Spelman went 2-of-7 on the day for 13 yards, with a long of eight yards to Nate Papso.

Chillis led the UAlbany receivers with 72 yards on four receptions on the day. Ryan Kirchner picked up seven yards on two catches, while Cole King totaled 23 yards on two receptions, including a 12-yard pass from Leathly. Seven other players had catches for the offense, including freshman Pat O'Connor, who caught Smith's 30-yard pass at the end of the game. Omar Osbourne and Karl Allison led the UAlbany rushers, with 78 and 41 total yards, respectively. Osbourne posted a long run of 12 yards, while Allison had two runs of 10 yards. King had one rushing attempt for 30 yards, while Fiacchi had the longest run of the quarterback corps with a five-yard rush.

The UAlbany kickers were led by Paul Layton, who totaled 134 punting yards on three attempts. Layton also went 1-for-1 on field goal attempts. Sean Kenney punted twice for 105 yards and went 1-for-2 on field goal attempts. Freshman Tom O'Riordan connected on a 30-yard field goal as well.

"I think we made too many mistakes," said UAlbany head coach Bob Ford, who will be entering his 40th varsity season this fall. "There were some simple interceptions and turnovers, mostly on balls we shouldn't have thrown. The defense played well overall, but I am a bit concerned with our pass protection. We answered some questions, but not all of them. The rest we will have to answer in preseason. We came out healthy, which is our number one priority."

Women's 4x400-Meter Relay Breaks School Record On Day One At Penn Relays - UAlbany Sports 2012

Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

Philadelphia, Pa.- On day one of the Penn Relays, the women's track and field 4x400-meter relay team of Allison Rogers, Brittany Eveleth, Tynelle Taylor-Chase and Sherez Mohamed broke the UAlbany school record with a time of 3:43.38. The squad previously broke the school's record last weekend at the Larry Ellis Invitational finishing at 3:44.27. Their mark of 3:43.38 qualified them for the Eastern College Athletics Conference Championships on Saturday, April 28.

Other notable finishes on day one included the college women's distance medley team finishing third with a time of 11:46.22. Kathryn Fanning ran the 1200-meter leg in 3:34, Elia Francis ran the 400-meter leg in 56.9, Jonelle White ran the 800-meter leg in 2:13.4 and Miranda McConnell finished off the final 1600-meters in 5:00.9.

Patricia McNish finished seventh in the eastern women's long jump with a mark of 18-feet 7 and 1/4 inches.

Antelmi and Resetarits Nominated for America East Fans' Choice Player of the Year

Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information Cambridge, Mass.-

UAlbany women's lax junior attack/midfielder Jess Antelmi and men's lax senior attack Joe Resetarits were nominated for the America East Fans' Choice Player of the Year in their respective sports. One player from each of the conference's 13 lacrosse teams are listed on the ballot. Voting for the 2012 America East Men's and Women's Lacrosse Fans' Choice Players of the Year will go until 12 p.m. (noon) on Monday, April 30. The winners will be announced that afternoon via release at AmericaEast.com. Resetarits, a Hamburg, N.Y. native, has helped jump start the UAlbany men's lacrosse team after starting out the season 0-7.

The Great Danes have won their last four of six games, including three of four conference games to put them tied for first in the conference standings. The senior attack leads his team in goals (37), assists (17) and points (54). Both his goals and points totals are best in the America East Conference. He and the rest of the UAlbany squad look to finish out the season with a win on senior day against Stony Brook on Saturday, April 28 (7pm) at John Fallon Field.

To vote for Resetarits click here: https://apps.facebook.com/opinionpolls/poll?pid=AB_MiTNZHmI Antelmi, a Bridgeport, N.Y. native, looks to assist her UAlbany women's lax squad to clinch the fourth and final spot in the America East Tournament. The Great Danes will need to win their final game over Vermont and have Stony Brook defeat New Hampshire to grab the final spot. The junior attack has totaled 23 goals and has a team-leading 21 assists and 44 points on the season. Antelmi and the Great Danes finish their 2012 schedule on the road against Vermont on Saturday, April 28 (2pm). To vote for Antelmi click here: https://apps.facebook.com/opinionpolls/poll?pid=AB_Mg_zRHIg&ref=nf

UAlbany Men’s Lacrosse Holds On For A 14-13 Victory Over Crosstown-Rival Siena

Albany, N.Y. - UAlbany had three players with hat tricks, led by senior Joe Resetarits, who finished with a team-high five points, as the Great Danes defeated crosstown-rival Siena, 14-13, on Tuesday night at John Fallon Field. It was the 15th win over the Saints for UAlbany in the last 16 meetings between the two teams.

Siena, which had won eight straight coming into the game, jumped out to an early 3-0 lead in the first quarter, as Chris D'Alberti scored first, followed by goals by Chris Roth and Evan Gallina, both assisted by Bryan Neufeld. The Great Danes got on the board at 7:45, with an unassisted shot by Miles Thompson. Resetarits netted his first goal of the game less than a minute later, taking an assist from Thompson to cut the Siena lead to one. Casey Dowd won the ensuing faceoff for the Saints and carried the ball into the offensive end, to put Siena up, 4-2.

However Miles Thompson netted his second goal and Will Stenberg took an assist from Resetarits on a man-up opportunity to tie the game at 4-4 after one. Siena scored the first two goals of the second quarter before UAlbany exploded, scoring the next seven goals. Four of those happened before the half. Will Fuller started the run, cutting the score to 6-5 off an assist from Jack Reynolds. Lyle Thompson netted the next two for the Great Danes, taking an assists from Rocky Bonitatibus on an extra-man opportunity before netting an unassisted goal to put UAlbany on top, 7-6. Mike Miller added one more for UAlbany before the halftime break, taking a long pass from Travis Lyons and finding the back of the net with 36 seconds to play.

Coming out of halftime, UAlbany scored three more to extend the lead to 11-6. Bonitatibus connected with Stenberg on a man-up to start the third quarter. Miles Thompson passed the ball off to brother Lyle at 9:17 to push the Great Dane lead to 10-6, before cousin Ty Thompson got in on the action on an assist from Resetarits with 3:33 left to play. The Saints would end their scoring drought in the final minutes of the third quarter, getting unassisted goals from Dowd and Conor Prunty.

The Great Danes kicked off the fourth quarter with a goal by Resetarits in the first minute. Siena started to mount a comeback with a goal by Chris Roth at 8:34, but UAlbany responded as Resetarits completed his 25th career hat trick on an assist from Lyons. Neufeld got in the goal-scoring column to cut the Saints' deficit to 13-10, before Stenberg netted his third goal of the game on an assist from Ty Thompson. Siena was not done, however, getting three goals in just over a minute of play. Roth scored two, while Colin Clive netted the final goal to pull the Saints within one. Siena picked up two late penalties, however, giving UAlbany control off the ball, and the Great Danes held on in the offensive end for the one-goal win.

The teams played fairly evenly on the stats sheet, with Siena (9-4) holding a 51-40 advantage in shots, including 17-7 in the final period, and a 34-30 advantage in ground balls. Both teams were 17-of-19 on clear attempts, while the Saints won 16-of-29 faceoffs. UAlbany used its special teams effectively, however, as the Great Danes were successful in 3-of-7 extra-man opportunities, while Siena when 0-for-3 with its man-up unit. Freshman goalkeeper Max Huber played all 60 minutes in the net for the Great Danes, making 10 saves. Siena's Tom Morr took the loss, playing 58:56 with 11 saves, before Matt Sharp came in for the final minute of play.

UAlbany (4-9) will return to action on Saturday, hosting Stony Brook in the final regular-season game. The game will have America East Championship implications, as the Great Danes are currently tied with the Seawolves atop the league standings. The game will be televised on Time Warner Cable Sports at 7 p.m.

Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

University of Albany Breaks Ground For New Multi-Sport Complex - UAlbany Sports 2012

Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information Albany, N.Y. -

UAlbany President George M. Philip, along with Vice President and Athletic Director Lee McElroy, was joined by public officials, coaches, student-athletes, alumni and supporters as the University broke ground on the construction of its new multi-sport complex, on Tuesday morning. Also announced was a $1 million challenge as part of a $2 million campaign to name the new field for head football coach Bob Ford, as presented by Dan Nolan '73, a member of UAlbany's President's Club of outstanding contributors.

"It's a bit surreal," said Ford, who will be entering his 40th varsity season at the helm of the UAlbany program this fall. "I think it speaks to the longevity, commitment and effort over an extended period of time. When something gets named after you, it means that someone thought you've given something, and been dedicated to a high degree. And I hope that's what I have done." The project is phase I of a three-phase plan, replacing UAlbany's current football venue with a state of the art athletic and recreational complex. The complex, which is east of the SEFCU Arena, on the site of the current soccer field, is scheduled to open in the fall of 2013.

Upon completion, the complex will be home to the Great Danes' NCAA Division I football and men's and women's soccer teams. Phase II includes the creation of a synthetic turf field designed for year-round recreational, intramural and club sport activities by the student body. This field will be located east of the campus tennis courts and south of Dutch Quad, and is expected to be completed in the fall of 2012. Phase III will include repairs and upgrades to the track and field facilities, which is currently housed in the existing football venue. Once completed, scheduled for early winter 2013, the area will be used strictly for track and field activities. "We are thrilled to be implementing this very long-awaited plan," said President Philip. "Already, this project is heightening team spirit as we provide Great Dane athletes and our students with the facilities of which they are so deserving."

The announcement included project contractors Whiting-Turner Contracting Company, principle architect and designer, Heery International Inc., and site engineer, Clough Harbor & associates.

Men's Soccer Adds 12 To The Upcoming 2012 Season - UAlbany Sports 20121

Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

Albany, N.Y.- Attempting to build upon a 2011 season that saw an America East semi-final appearance for just the fourth time in program history, UAlbany men's soccer head coach Trevor Gorman has announced the addition of 12 new faces for 2012. "This large class has a tremendous mix of in-state talent and international experience", said head coach Gorman on the recruiting class. "We are looking forward to the addition of these young men to our program, and to the impact they will undoubtedly have over the next four years."

Kristian Alexieff: DEF - 5'10 - 160lbs. - West Nyack, NY (Don Bosco Prep) Quick Facts: A member of two league championship teams at Don Bosco, Alexieff led the team in scoring his senior year with 15 goals and 9 assists. He has competed in the USSD Academy with both Met Oval and New York Cosmos, acting as a starting left back for both. Gorman on Alexieff: "Kit is an energetic, athletic, wide player with a great engine that will allow him to get up and down the sideline. He has trained, and played, at a very high level and just loves the game in general. I think he will be an excellent addition to our left side." Tim Allen: GK - 6'4 - 180lbs. - Brisbane, Australia (Queensland University of Technology) Quick Facts: A former member of the Australian Goalkeeping Academy, Allen comes to Albany as a transfer from Queensland University of Technology. While in high school he was a regular starter for St. Peter's Lutheran College, and currently plays for University of Queensland FC. Gorman on Allen: "Tim is a player who has all the physical tools to be a top Division 1 goalkeeper, and brings with him the experience of playing at a very good standard in his home country. We're delighted to add him to the Great Danes program." Max Aronica: MF - 5'9 - 145lbs. - Massapequa, NY (Massapequa HS) Quick Facts: A standout at Commack and Massapequa High Schools, Aronica is a multiple time all-league and all-conference performer. As a member of Commack SC, ranked as high as #2 in the country, he has helped the team to championships in the New York state cup and Disney Showcase. Aronica is also a three time state ODP selection. Gorman on Aronica: "Max comes to us from an excellent Commack team that has competed at the highest level for years. He's is a creative player with the vision to pick out good passes when he's on the ball. His technical ability in tight spaces will allow him to transition well to the college game." Phil Denara: MF - 5'7 - 140lbs. - West Islip, NY (West Islip HS) Quick Facts: As a team captain with West Islip High School in 2011, Denara was named both all-league and all-county. During his four year career he amassed over 50 points. A teammate of Aronica with Commack SC, Denara has twice won the Disney Showcase, and competed in the USYSA National League. Gorman on Denara: "Phil first impressed us at various camps last summer. He's a quick, athletic, player with good technical ability. I look for Phil to compete for a position on our right side early in his career at UAlbany." Bart DeProspo: DEF/MF - 6'2 - 175lbs. - Groshen, NY (Don Bosco Prep) Quick Facts: As a team captain in 2011, DeProspo helped lead traditional high school powerhouse Don Bosco to another successful season. He has competed with Met Oval in the USSD Academy, and currently plays with TSF Academy. Gorman on DeProspo: "Bart is a player who we saw at our camp last summer. He comes from a good soccer family, and has a tremendous work rate - enabling his success at both high school and club level. I think he will only continue to get better and will be a fantastic addition to our program." Ivan Martinez: MF/FW - 5'5 - 135lbs. - Mamaroneck, NY (Rye Neck HS) Quick Facts: Despite missing his senior season, Martinez enjoyed a highly decorated career at Rye Neck High School earning player of the year honors in Section 1 in 2010. That same year he was also named 1st Team All State. Martinez plays for FC Westchester in the USSD Academy, helping them to a division title and playoffs appearance in 2011. Gorman on Martinez: "Ivan is a dangerous attacking player who always pops up in good positions on the field. He's capable of playing multiple positions, and has the potential to transition very well to Division 1 soccer. I fully expect him to be a dynamic attacking member of our team throughout his career." Philip Persson: FW - 5'10 - 170lbs. - Norrkoping, Sweden (John Bauergymnasiet HS) Quick Facts: Hailing from Norrkoping, Sweden, Persson has been a member of the youth system at IFK Norrkoping and Smedby AIS. In the 2011 season he contributed eight goals to his team's quest to win the youth division. Gorman on Persson: "Philip is another international player who has been exposed to a good standard of play throughout his development. He has the ability to put the ball in the net, and will be an exciting attacking option. We will look forward to welcoming to UAlbany in the fall." Fabrizio Petralia: MF - 5'10 - 140lbs. - West Hempstead, NY (St. Anthony's HS) Quick Facts: As a team captain at St. Anthony's, Fabrizio tallied 15 goals and 7 assists on his way to being named an all-county selection, while helping the squad to a finals appearance. He has participated for BW Gottschee, New York Cosmos, and Albertson in the USSD Academy. Gorman on Petralia: "Fabrizio is another excellent addition to our left side of the field. He's enjoyed success at the highest level of club soccer, and will bring good vision, movement, and understanding to our team. He will certainly be in a position to make an impact upon his arrival." Sergio Petralia: MF - 5'10 - 140lbs. - West Hempstead, NY (St. Anthony's HS) Quick Facts: A teammate of his brother at St. Anthony's, Sergio produced 7 goals and 13 assists in his senior year helping his team achieve a finals appearance. He has played his club soccer for BW Gottschee, New York Cosmos, and Albertson in the USSD Academy including a playoff appearance in 2011. Gorman on Petralia: "Sergio brings numerous qualities to our team for the fall. Like his brother he understands the game, and has the technical ability to make an impact from various positions on the field. He will, undoubtedly, hit the ground running and look to contribute from day one." Luca Quinn: DEF - 6'4 - 170lbs. - New York City, NY (The Beacon School) Quick Facts: A member of the 2010 PSAL championship squad at The Beacon School, Quinn contributed 7 goals and 5 assists to that campaign and served as team captain in 2011. Having formerly competed with New York Cosmos in the USSD Academy, he now plays with Bayside Aston Villa Flames. Gorman on Quinn: "Luca is another player who came to our attention through our camp. He reads the game very well, and has an excellent touch for a player who is still growing in to his frame. I see him as a player who will only get better throughout his time here and look forward to seeing his development." Anthony Rozzano: FW/MF - 5'10 - 150lbs. - Webster, NY (Webster Schroeder HS) Quick Facts: As a senior, Rozzano scored 29 goals and led his Webster Schroeder team to the New York state championship game. For his efforts he was named the Greater Rochester Player of the Year, an All-State selection, and a NSCAA All American. Rozzano competes for Empire United in the USSD Academy. Gorman on Rozzano: "Anthony is a constant threat going forward. He's a proven goal scorer, but can also play a number of different roles within a team. His quickness, with and without the ball, will be a major asset to him at the college level. I look forward to him bringing those talents to the Great Danes." Keith Traut: DEF - 6'2 - 180lbs. - College Point, NY (Brooklyn Technical HS) Quick Facts: As captain of Brooklyn Technical High School in 2011, Traut earned an invitation to participate in the NYC Mayors Cup showcase for the top players in the area. He is a regular starter for New York Cosmos in the USSD Academy. Gorman on Traut: "Keith is a player with the size and athleticism to compete right away in college. He's benefiting from the consistent training, and matches, within the academy and is getting better every week. I look forward to that continued growth, and expect him to challenge to contribute early in his UAlbany career."

University of Albany FCS Football Begins Preparations for 2012 Season - UAlbany Sports 2012

Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

Albany, N.Y. - Spring practice for the University at Albany football program began on Saturday March 31 and the team will be having their first intra-squad scrimmage this Saturday. The scrimmage is scheduled from 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. on University Field. The Great Danes, who are allowed 15 practices, are slated to play the annual Spring Game at University Field on Saturday, April 28 at 3:00 p.m., to conclude the spring season. UAlbany established a program record with its 6th consecutive winning season in 2011.

The Great Danes, who have won five Northeast Conference championships since 2002, recorded a non-league win over Columbia during a 8-4 campaign that took the Great Danes in to their first ever FCS Playoff appearance. Head coach Bob Ford, the active Division I FCS & FBS leader with 255 career victories, has 47 letterwinners returning, including 13 starters on both offense and defense. "In spring football is when you establish who your team is going to be" explains Ford, who is entering his 40th varsity season, "the saying goes; 'you drive your stake in to the ground to establish your identity.' I think we have a decent nucleus on both sides of the football coming back. Our major challenges will be solidifying an offensive line with two definite spots open and deciding on who will be our starting quarterback."

The Great Danes will have to replace their starting quarterback, Dan DiLella, who led the Great Danes to their first-ever FCS Playoff appearance with a single season school record of 2,548 yards passing. Returning on offense are top tailbacks Andrew Smith and Dillon Romain and leading receiver Ryan Kirchner. "We have a very good stable of running backs, two good tight ends and an excellent core of receivers" says Coach Ford about the offense. Kirchner registered the fourth-best single-season total in school history with 56 receptions for 615 yards and ten touchdowns. He also averaged 7.8 yards per punt return. The offensive side of the ball will have eight starters and 22 letterman returning for the 2012 campaign.

The defense had an All-Northeast Conference player at every position last year with exception of outside linebacker, where Kyle Jordan earned Northeast Conference Rookie of the Year honors. The defense will have to replace two All-Conference defensive linemen in Zach Gallo and Eddie Delaney. Delaney, a recipient of the Maxwell Football Club's Thomas Brookshier Spirit Award, led the Great Dane defense with 54 tackles and recorded a team-best 11.5 hits for a loss. He also established the program's FCS single-season record with 8.5 sacks. "On the defensive side it appears that we're four-over-two at almost every position with the exception of the defensive line which is a little thin," said Ford. "Our linebacker core will probably be the heart and soul of our defensive unit." Jon Morgan, a senior inside linebacker, led the team in tackles with 106 on his way to earning First-Team All-Northeast Conference Honors. The defense will have to replace six starters this spring and will have 24 letterman returning.

On special teams, Paul Layton, an All-Northeast Conference Punter, who finished the 2011 season ranked 9th at the FCS level, returns and will look to improve on his 2011 average of 42.6 yards per punt attempt. SPRING FOOTBALL SCHEDULE Mon 4/9 3pm Wed 4/11 3pm Fri 4/13 3pm Sat 4/14 10am (Intra-Squad Scrimmage) Mon 4/16 3pm Wed 4/18 3pm Fri 4/20 3pm Sat 4/21 10am (Intra-Squad Scrimmage) Mon 4/23 3pm Wed 4/25 3pm Fri 4/27 3pm (Rain Date if Needed) Sat 4/28 3pm (Annual Purple & Gold Game)

UAlbany Releases 2012 Football Schedule; Great Danes Will Visit Youngstown State & Maine

Courtesy: UAlbany Sports

Albany, N.Y. - For the first time in seven years, UAlbany will start its schedule at home, as the Great Danes will host Colgate on Sept. 1, 2012. Vice President and Athletic Director Lee McElroy, along with head football coach Bob Ford, announce the team's upcoming fall schedule on Thursday, March 29, 2012. UAlbany will host five games at University Field, while taking on three non-conference opponents.

After kicking off the fall with Colgate, the Great Danes hit the road for three straight contests, visiting conference foe Robert Morris on Sept. 8, before traveling to Youngstown State (Sept. 15) and Maine (Sept. 22). The Black Bears were NCAA Playoff participants last season, finishing 9-4 after falling to Georgia Southern in the quarterfinals. UAlbany will return home on Sept. 29, hosting Northeast Conference opponent Monmouth on Hall of Fame Weekend.

The Great Danes will visit Bryant (Oct. 6), to start October before hosting St. Francis (Pa.) at 1 p.m. on Homecoming Weekend. After a bye week on Oct. 20, the Great Danes wrap up the league slate, visiting Sacred Heart (Oct. 27) and Duquesne (Nov. 10) while hosting Wagner (Nov. 3).

UAlbany will close out the season at home, welcoming NEC rival Central Connecticut State to University Field on Nov. 17. "I think it is a very fair schedule," said Ford, who is entering his 40th varsity season at the helm of the UAlbany program. "We are going to have a bullseye on our back as we defend our conference title. We have a habit of playing national champions, and Youngstown State is a four-time champion. We are playing Colgate for the third straight season, and both of those games have been tight, tough ballgames. We have also built a good rivalry with Maine, so we're looking forward to playing up there.

We are looking forward to continuing to build on the successes we've had."