University at Albany
© Sports Information Office Fax Cover Sheet
To: Sports Department
Organization: Albany Times Union
From: Josh White
Office: Athletic Media Relations
Phone: (518) 442-5733
Fax: (518) 442-3139
E-Mail: jwhite@uamail.albany.edu
Date: 8-31-01 (Friday)
Pages w/cover: 2
Comments: COLLEGE SPORTS
(Women’s Soccer)
Albany, N.Y. — Freshman forward Becky Heiberg, one of six Albany freshmen involved in the
scoring, knocked in the game-winning goal six minutes into the first half as the Great Danes
® upended lona, 4-0, in the season-opening match for both teams on Friday afternoon at Varsity
Field. UAlbany posted its first season-opening victory since 1995.
Albany (1-0) registered two goals over the opening 14 minutes of play. Heiberg began
the scoring at the 6:39 mark as she dribbled by an lona defender and shot into the lower right
corner. Eight minutes later, freshman midfielder Michelle Wise found the top left of the net.
The Great Danes, who outshot the Gaels 32-5, added two more insurance scores early in
the second stanza. Midfielders Sara Rickard and Katie Johnson recorded their first goals as
collegians. Ashley Jurica (Fonda-Fultonville H.S.) and ToniAnn Burdi set up both goals with
similar left-cross passes from less than five yards out.
Goalkeepers Michelle Talviste and Beth Spinelli combined on the shutout. lona’s
Alicia Wisnewski tallied five saves.
-agate-
lona (0-1) 0 0 - 0
Albany (1-0) 2 2 - 4
Albany — Becky Heiberg 1-0, Michelle Wise 1-0, Sara Rickard 1-0, Katie Johnson 1-0,
Ashley Jurica 0-1, ToniAnn Burdi 0-1; Goalkeepers: Michelle Talviste (63:18, 1 save, OGA),
Beth Spinelli (26:42, 0 saves, OGA).
lona — No Scoring; Goalkeeper: Alicia Wisnewski (90:00, 5 saves, 4GA).
(Women’s Volleyball)
Syracuse, N.Y.—Freshman Laura Koster recorded 13 kills and senior co-captain Noreen
Carroll had 27 assists as Syracuse downed Albany, 30-24, 30-23, 30-25, in the opening match
@ of the Orange Invitational Tournament on Friday afternoon at Manley Fieldhouse.
MORE
EI
ALBANY SPORTS 2-2-2
© Koster also posted four block assists while junior Abby Van Mater chipped in with 12
kills for the Orangewomen (1-0), who finished fourth in the Big East Conference last season.
Albany setter Jill Dombrowski had 21 assists and five digs in her first match as a collegian,
while Alissa Gibbs (Shenendehowa H.S.) tallied 10 kills and a game-high 14 digs.
On Saturday, the Great Danes will face Kent State at 10:00 a.m. before finishing up
with Fairfield at 2:30 p.m. NCAA volleyball matches are using rally scoring to 30 for the first
time in 2001.
-agate-
syracuse def. Albany, 30-24, 30-23, 30-25
-30-
University at Albany
Sports Information Fax Cover Sheet
To: Sports Department
Organization: Times Union
From: Matt McCullough
Office: Athletic Media Relations
Phone: (518) 442-3359
Fax: (518) 442-3139
E-Mail: mmcecullough@uamail.albany.edu
Date: 8-29-01 (Wednesday)
Pages w/cover: 1
Comments: COLLEGE SPORTS (Field Hockey)
Syracuse, N.Y.—Junior Kristin Aronowicz scored back-to-back goals in the
second half as Big East Conference co-favorite Syracuse downed Albany 4-0 in
the season opener for both teams Wednesday night at Coyne Field.
After a scoreless first half, soohomore Ann-Marie Guglieri scored off a
pass from Michelle Marks to put Syracuse (1-0) ahead less than two minutes into
the second stanza. Aronowicz, a midfielder, put the game out of reach for Albany
(0-1) by notching two goals in an eight-minute stretch. All-conference goalkeeper
Audrey Latsko earned the shutout while freshman Meredith Gettel capped the
scoring for the Orangewomen.
Albany will face Providence at the Husky Classic in Storrs, Conn., on
Sat., Sept. 1 at 2:00 p.m. The Great Danes square off against host team
Connecticut, which tied Syracuse as the Big East preseason favorites, the
following day at 11:30 a.m.
-agate-
Albany (0-1) 0 0 - 0
Syracuse (1-0) 0 4 - 4
Albany — No Scoring; Goalkeeper: Elaine Sullivan (70:00, 7 saves, 4GA).
syracuse — Ann-Marie Guglieri 1-0, Kristin Aronowicz 2-0, Meredith Gettel 1-0,
Michelle Marks 0-1; Goalkeeper: Audrey Latsko (70:00, 3 saves, OGA).
-30-
University at Albany
Bu Sports Information Fax Cover Sheet
_
To: sports Department
Organization: Albany Times Union
From: Brian DePasquale
Office: Athletic Media Relations
Phone: (518) 442-3072
Fax: (518) 442-3139
E-Mail: bdepasquale@uamail.albany.edu
Date: 8-27-01 (Monday)
Pages w/cover: 1
Comments: College Football
FIVE ON FOOTBALL GAZETTE PRESEASON ALL-AMERICA TEAM
Westmont, Ill. — Five University at Albany football players have been chosen to the Football
Gazette NCAA I-AA Mid-Major Preseason All-America squad. Split end Chris Phillis (Saratoga
Springs), linebacker Josh Bazan and offensive guard Alex Argulewicz were first-team
selections. Tailback Brian Manigault and roverback Ryan MacLean earned second-team
honors.
Phillis, a preseason All-Northeast Conference choice, caught 49 passes for 856 yards
and eight touchdowns as a junior. Bazan, a junior, led all Great Dane defenders with 109
tackles, 18 hits for a loss and six sacks. Argulewicz, a 6-foot-1, 295-pound left guard, blocked
for a offense that ranked 14th nationally in rushing last year.
Manigault, one of four captains, established UAlbany single-season records with 1,041
rushing yards and 15 touchdowns. MacLean, a junior, totaled 86 tackles and nine pass break-
ups after switching to defense from tailback.
The Great Danes open their schedule on Saturday, Sept. 1 against Towson at University
Field. Kickoff is 1:00 p.m. The game can be heard on SportsTalk 980, WOFX-AM, beginning
with the pre-game show at 12:45. Campus station WCDB-90.9 FM will also air the contest.
CORNERBACK JELANI DANDLES LEAVES UALBANY FOOTBALL SQUAD
Albany, N.Y. — Head football coach Bob Ford announced today that junior Jelani Dandles
(Bishop Maginn) has left the team. Dandles, who had made 20 consecutive starts at cornerback
over the last two seasons, explained that he had lost his desire to play the sport and wanted to
concentrate on his academic studies.
Dandles, who received the team’s top defensive back award last year, recorded 44
tackles with five pass break-ups and two interceptions. He had moved from wide receiver to
defensive back during spring practice in 1999.
Kurt Campbell, a redshirt freshman from Palm Beach Gardens, Fla., will take Dandles
nlace in the lineup.
Meanwhile, freshman defensive back Olubunmi Awofeso tore the anterior cruciate
ligament in his right knee during practice. Awofeso, who will be lost for the season, is scheduled
to have surgery at a later date.
-30-
University at Albany
Sports Information Fax Cover Sheet
To: Sports Department
Organization: Albany Times Union
From: Brian DePasquale
Office: Athletic Media Relations
Phone: (518) 442-3072
Fax: (518) 442-3139
E-Mail: bdepasquale@Quamail.albany.edu
Date: 8-23-01 (Thursday)
Pages w/cover: 1
Comments: College Sports
AMERICA EAST RELEASES PRESEASON WOMEN’S VOLLEYBALL POLL
Boston, Mass. — New Hampshire and Northeastern have been tabbed as the preseason
favorites to win the 2001 America East Conference championship in balloting by the head
coaches. Towson, who also earned first-place votes, was picked third, while UAlbany was
voted eighth in the coaches poll.
UAlbany head coach Kelly Sheffield, who recently was an assistant at Atlantic Coast
Conference schools Clemson and Virginia, will look to turn around a program that went 3-24 one
year ago. Eight newcomers join six returnees as the squad addressed its depth concerns in the
offseason.
Division | All-lndependent selection Alissa Gibbs (Shenendehowa H.S.) was the team
leader in attempts, kills, hitting percentage, digs and aces last season. Setter Maureen
Roberts, the 2000 assists leader, and sophomore Ali Venditti, the Great Danes’ leader in
blocks, join Gibbs as the top veterans.
UAlbany will open its 2001 schedule in Syracuse, N.Y. at the Big Orange Tournament. In
the season opener for both teams, Albany will square off against the Orangewomen, a 24-10
club last year, on August 31. The following day's schedule includes matches with Kent State
and 2000 Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference champion Fairfield.
The Great Danes’ home slate begins on Sept. 7 with a match against lona. The home
schedule features eight America East dates and non-conference match-ups with Central
Connecticut State and Sacred Heart.
America East Conference Coaches Women’s Volleyball Preseason Poll
T1. New Hampshire (3) 44 and Northeastern (3) 44, 3. Towson (2) 41, 4. Maine 30, 5. Stony
Brook 21, 6. Drexel 20, 7. Hartford 16, 8. Albany 7.
( )—first-place votes
-30-
66/23/61 11:36:57 EDT America East Conf. -> Albany PAGE 661 |
MERICA VoLLEYBALL
10 High Street, Suite 860, Soston, MA 02110
H AS 617.695.6369 ° Fax: 617.695.6385 * www.americaeast.com
™
Proseason Release
August 23, 2001
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Marjorie Adams
New Hampshire and Northeastern Tie as Preseason Favorites
— + — — —<—r.hCC CCC
BOSTON— The University of New Hampshire and Northeastem University were picked as
preseason favorites to win the America East volleyball championship this season. Each team
— ae ee a ay
2001 Preseason Poll
received three first-place votes and 44 points overall. Towson University picked up the other
two top votes with 41 total points. Balloting was conducted by the conference head coaches, _ 1. New Hampshire (3) 44
who were not allowed to vote for their teams. | Northeastern (3) 44 |
| 3. Towson (2) 44
University of Maine was chosen fourth with 30 points followed by America East newcomer | 4 Maine 30 |
Stony Brook University (21 points) and Drexel University (20). University of Hartford (16) and | §. Stony Brook 21
| University at Albany (7) rounded out the voting. | 6. Drexel 20
| 7. Hartford 16
The top four teams in the conference will advance to the America East Championship with the «8. Albany 7
winner receiving an automatic bid to the NCAA championship. The conference championship |
will be held Nov. 17-18 at the site of the No. 1 seed. ———— a)
The 2001 America East head coach of the year, Ken Nichols has seven returning letterwinners from last season's Northeastern
team that went 12-4 in the conference and 19-16 overall. He also welcomes the return of Adrianna DiGregorio, Jasmine Mullings
and Gianina Pellegrini. Ali three wili be seniors this year after missing the 2000 season for various reasons.
After graduating six seniors last spring, New Hampshire (13-3 America East, 23-11 overail) will iook to its underclassmen to lead the
©} Wildcats to the top of the America East. With no seniors on this year's squad, the team will feature junior captains Lauren Knight and
Sasha Scott along with 2000 America East Rookie of the Year Alyson Coler. Coler's .279 hitting percentage was second in the
conference.
Towson, 11-5 In America East play and 15-18 overall, has made considerable strides in its program. Under first-year heaa coach
Chris Riley, the Tigers won 11 of their final 17 matches iast year after dropping 12 of their first 16. The team will be led by senior
setter Andrea LaBlanc, a three-year starter who averaged 10.87 assists per game last season, third in the league.
Maine improved to 12-18 overall last year after going 0-21 in 1999 without the benefits of scholarships in the Biack Bears’ first
season as a varsity sport in 16 years. The Black Bears return sophomore setter Cheryi Elliott who averaged 10.58 assists per
game, fourth overall in league, and ranked second in the conference in serving, recording 50 service aces (0.48 per game). She will
be joined by a talented group of newcomers assembled by head coach Sue Medley.
Stony Brook head coach Deb Matejka brings her first recruiting Class to the floor this year to add depth to a team that returns four of
six starters from last season including standout seniors Susanne Westing and Debra Falkenberg. The Seawolves finished 16-12
overall Jast season.
Defense and a deep roster that gives them a variety of options will be strengths for Drexei. The Dragons were 4-12 in the confer-
ence and 9-26 overall last season.
Hartford will be challenged to find depth with a limited preseason roster after the resignation of head coach Alex Ha fate this sum-
mer. The Hawks finished eighth in the conference iast season with a 3-13 mark and a 7-19 overall record.
Albany will iook to improve on a 3-24 record in 2000. The Great Danes will be led by Kelly Sheffield who took over the head coaching
duties this summer as the program's first full-time head coach.
© ALBANY * BINGHAMTON * BOSTON UNIVERSITY * HARTFORD * MAINE * NEW HAMPSHIRE * NORTHEASTERN * STONY BROOK * VERMONT
University at Albany
Sports Information Fax Cover Sheet
To: Sports Department
Organization: Albany Times Union
From: Brian DePasquale
Office: Athletic Media Relations
Phone: (518) 442-3072
Fax: (518) 442-3139
E-Mail: bdepasquale@uamail.albany.edu
Date: 8-22-01 (Wednesday)
Pages w/cover: 1
Comments: College Sports
AMERICA EAST RELEASES PRESEASON FIELD HOCKEY POLL
Boston, Mass. — Defending America East Conference regular-season champion and
NCAA participant New Hampshire is the preseason choice to win the conference in 2001. Four
teams received first-place votes in balloting by the head coaches. Boston University, last year's
America East tournament champion, was placed second in the voting, while UAlbany was voted
eighth in the 10-team league.
The Great Danes are looking to duplicate the success they have enjoyed the previous
two seasons as an independent. Albany finished 10-8 a year ago, and owns 21 victories at the
NCAA Division | level.
Albany returns ten players, including six of the team’s nine goal-scorers, from a 2000
squad that ranked 16th in Division | with a 2.60 goals per game average. Leading the offense
are All-Mideast Region performer Angie Stegel (17 goals, 7 assists) and co-captain Amy
DiMicco (11 goals, 4 assists). Stegel (Johnstown H.S.) ranked in the top 15 nationally in both
goals per game and points per game. Sarah Zaborowski, a senior sweeper back, has made
49 consecutive starts on defense.
Head coach Deborah Fiore’s program enjoyed one of its finest recruiting efforts this
offseason, bringing 14 new players into her system, and UAlbany will likely need the added
depth as it plays a very challenging schedule. Four of the Great Danes’ 18 opponents ranked in
the top 20 in last year's final NFHCA poll, and three of those teams qualified for the 16-team
NCAA tournament.
The Great Danes open the season at Big East Conference preseason co-favorite
Syracuse on August 29. Connecticut, which tied the Orangewomen for the top ranking in the
conference’s preseason coaches poll, hosts Albany at the Husky Classic in Storrs, Conn. on
Sept. 2. Albany's home opener is Sept. 14 against Maryland-Baltimore County.
America East Conference Coaches Women’s Field Hockey Preseason Poll
1. New Hampshire (40 75, 2. Boston U. (3) 71, 3. Northeastern (2) 67, 4. Delaware (1) 59,
0. Drexel 51, 6. Maine 40, 7. Hofstra 30, 8. Albany 21, 9. Vermont 20, 10. Towson 16.
( )—first-place votes
-30-
BB/22/B81 13:46:13 EDT America East Conf. -> Albany PAGE 661
MERICA FieELD HOCKEY
10 High Street, Suite 860, Boston, MA 02110
E AS , 617.608 6369 * Fax: 617.695.6385 " www.americaeast.com
Preseason Release
August 22, 2001
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Matt Bourque
New Hampshire is Top Choice in Fieid Hockey
RBOSTON— University of New Hampshire, which last season won the America East Field Hockey | |
2001 Preseason Pol!
regular-season title and advanced to the NCAA Championship for the second time in three |
years, is the preseason favorite to win the conference in 2001. Four different teams received | 4 New Hampshire (4) 75
first-place votes In balloting by the head coaches, who were not allowed to vote for their teams. | 2. Boston VU. (3) i
The Wildcats received four of a possible 11 first-place votes and 75 points overall to eage 2000 | 3. Northeastern (2) 867
America East Champion Boston University, which received three first-place votes and 71 points. 4. Delaware (1) 59 |
Northeastern University (2 first-place votes, 67 points) and University of Delaware (1, 59) were 5. Drexel 31 |
others to recaive first-place votes. 6. Maine 40 |
| 7. Hofstra 30 |
Drexel University, which advanced to the America East Field Hockey Championship last fall for 8. Albany a
the first ime since 1992, was chosen fifth with 51 points. University of Maine (40), Hofstra | 9. Vermont 20
University (30), University at Albany (21), University of Vermont (20) and Towson University (16) 10. Towson 16 |
rounded out the poll.
America East Championship, which will be held at the highest seeded team
The top four teams in the conference will advance to the
ber 2 with the championship game November 4.
with an artificial turf field. Semifinals are slated for Novem
-conference midfielder Marcie Boyer (7 goals, / assists) and back Cameron Schmitz, a two-time
all-conference choice, to a team that was 7-1 in America East last season, 14-8 overall. Junior Kristen Weldon (6 goals, 4 assists)
and senior Tami Street (3 goals, 10 assists) will be counted upon for more offense following the graduation of America East Player of
the Year Jessica Russel! (17 goals, 6 assists). Two-time first-team all-conference goalkeeper Amy Aguiay (14-8, 2.08, 806) has also
graduated, and now plays for the Canadian National Team.
The Wildcats return second-team all
Boston University, 6-2 in America East and 16-8 overall, defeated New Hampshire, 2-1 in the America East Championship game a
season ago. The Terriers return junior Jane Rogers (8 goals, 12 assists) up front and senior backs Kerry Carney and Felicia
Cappabianca, each of whom received all-conference honors last fall. Senior Susan Harrington, the second-team all-conference
goalkeeper, also retums after posting a 16-8 mark with a 1.52 goals against average.
Northeastern (4-4, 11-9) missed the America East Championship for the first time last fall after qualifying 10 straight years and
winning six conference championships. Midfielder Fior D'Alize Arindell, back Keily Williams and goalkeeper Kathleen Madaus, who
led America East with a 1.41 goals against average, should have the Huskies back in the running this year. D'Alize Arindell and
Williams were both first-team all-conference seiections iast year.
Drexel posted a school-record 13 wins last season (5-3, 13-7) and returns America East scoring leader Pamie Zukowski (19 goais,
5 assists) and Kristina Backentose (11 goals, 5 assists), who was third in the conference in scoring.
Maine (3-5, 8-11) aims for its first appearance in the America East Championship since 1997, behind junior Jen Johnstone (9 goals.
1 assist), the team’s leading Scorer, and all-rookie goalkeeper Jerrel] Lance (3-1, 1.02, .885).
Hofstra (3-5, 8-12) returns leading scorer Tricia Ann Greaves (7 goals, 2 assists) and goalkeeper Christine Hickey (5-6, 1.76, .841).
America East newcomer Albany was 10-8 as an independent last fall. Seniors Angie Stegel (17 goals, 7 assists) and Amy DiMicco
(11 goals, 4 assists) have combined for 168 points in their collegiate careers.
Vermont (3-5, 8-11) had a seven-game turnaround from 1999 (1-17) thanks in large part to America East Rookie of the Year Whitney
Gage, who scored nine goals and added three assists.
Towson (0-8, 4-16) has seven newcomers and six sophomores among the 22 players on its preseason roster.
@ we ae) Rarer eT! & RACTON TINIVERSITY *& HARTFORD * MAINE ® NEW HAMPSHIRE *® NORTHEASTERN * STONY BROOK * VERMONT
© Maine 20, 12. Delaware 18.
University at Albany
Sports Information Fax Cover Sheet
To: Sports Department
Organization: Albany Times Union
From: Brian DePasquale
Office: Athletic Media Relations
Phone: (518) 442-3072
Fax: (518) 442-3139
E-Mail: bdepasquale@uamail.albany.edu
Date: 8-21-01 (Tuesday)
Pages w/cover: 1
Comments: College Sports
AMERICA EAST RELEASES PRESEASON MEN’S SOCCER POLL
Boston, Mass. — Vermont, the defending America East Conference champion, is the preseason
favorite to win the conference title again this year. The Catamounts were among five teams
who received first-place votes in balloting by the coaches. Hofstra was picked second, while
Northeastern was third. The Great Danes, who are about to embark on their inaugural America
East campaign, were voted tenth in the 12-team conference.
The UAlbany program is on solid ground. Coming off their first winning season since
1997, the Great Danes return eight starters, including their top three scorers. Nick Southworth
(Maple Hill H.S.), Jarvin Skeete and sophomore Jamal Lis-Simmons combined for 21 goals
and 11 assists, igniting the Atlantic Soccer Conference’s highest-scoring offense (2.39 goals per
game) last season.
Southworth was named first-team All-Atlantic Soccer Conference and established the
highest single-season points mark (22) since 1996. Skeete is a skillful and mature player with
three years starting experience and 18 career goals. An impact newcomer last season, Lis-
Simmons started all 18 contests as a freshman and posted six goals.
second-year coach Johan Aarnio upgraded his non-conference schedule for 2001. The
program will be making its first trip to California in mid-September, playing defending West
Coast Conference champion and NCAA Tournament participant San Diego. The Great Danes
also face Aarnio's alma mater, San Diego State of the Mountain West Conference. The season
opener is slated against Marist, the 2000 MAAC Tournament champion, on Wednesday, Sept. 5
at Varsity Field. Albany renews its local rivalry with Siena on Sept. 25, as the two schools have
not met in ten years.
America East Conference Coaches Men’s Soccer Preseason Poll
1. Vermont (4) 100, 2. Hofstra (2) 96, 3. Northeastern (1) 92, 4. Towson (3) 89, 5. Boston U. 82,
6. Stony Brook (2) 80, 7. Drexel 79, 8. Hartford 69, 9. New Hampshire 36, 10. Albany 31, 11.
-30-
66/21/61 12:31:36 EDT America East Conf. -> Aibany PAGE 6Bi
NMiEN’S SOCCER
10 High Street, Suite 660, Boston, MA 02110
617.695.6369 * Fax: 617.695.6385 ° www.americaeast.com
Preseason Release
August 21, 2001
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Matt Bourque
Vermont Selected to Repeat as Men’s Soccer Champion
ROSTON— Defending America East Champion University of Vermont is the preseason favorite to |
win the men’s soccer conference again this year. Five different teams received first-place votes | 2001 Preseason Poll .
in balloting by the head coaches, who were not allowed to vote for their teams. The Catamounis 1. Vermont (4) 100 |
received four of a possible 11 first-place votes and 100 points overall to outdistance Hofstra 2. Hofstra (2) 96 |
University, which had two first-piace votes and 96 points. | 3. Northeastem (1) 92
4. Towson (3) 89
Defending regular-season champion Northeastern University was picked third with a first-place | 5. Boston U. 82
vote and 92 points. Towson University, the only team to appear in each of the last three America 6. Stony Brook (2) 80
East Championships, was fourth with three first-place votes and 89 points. Boston University (82 7. Drexei 79
points) was chosen fifth, followed by America East newcomer Stony Brook University (two first- | 8. Hartford 69
place votes, 80 points) and Drexel! University (79 points). 9, New Hampshire 36 |
| 10. Albany 31 |
University of Hartford, which won the America East Championship in 1999, was chosen eighth 11. Maine 20 |
with 69 points. University of New Hampshire (36), University at Albany (31), University of Maine | 42. Delaware 18
(20) and University of Delaware (18) rounded out the poll.
The top six teams in the conference will advance to the America East Championship with the winner of the tournament receiving an
automatic bid to the NCAA College Cup.
r The Catamounts, who were 6-2-1 in America East fast fall and 13-8-1 overall, retum senior forward Jamie Farrell (10 goals, 3
assists in 2000) and a defense ied by 2000 America East Rookie of the Year Nick Azarian and all-rookie choice Keli Halgason,
among 15 ietter winners.
Hofstra wag 6-2-1 in America East and 11-6-3 overall last year, dropping the championship game 2-1 in overtime at Vermont. |
Sophomore Rishi Matadeen and senior Luckisee Williams iead a defense which yielded 1.03 goals against per game last fall.
Northeastern head coach Ed Matz returns all players from a team that was 7-2 in America East last year and 10-8-0 overall. First-
team all-conference midfielder Anders Hoyem, who tied for the America Fast lead with 12 assists, and senior forward Petter Starnas
(10 goals, one assist) are among the Huskies' leaders.
Towson (6-2-1, 9-8-1) returns the duo of seniors Todd Lauber (13 goals, 12 assists), who ied America East in scoring last season,
and 2000 America East Player of the Year Alfonso DeMares (12 goais, 9 assists).
Boston University (4-4-1, 8-7-2}, which won the America East Championship each year from 1992-96, retums junior goalkeeper Matt
Smith, who posted an 8-5-5 record with an 0.98 goals against average in a conference-high 1834 minutes in 1999 but missed the
first 10 games of 2000 with a broken hand.
Stony Brook was 12-4-2 overall last season. Sophomore goalkeeper Dan Ferrin, who registered a 0.81 goais against average with
10 shutouts last fall, was recently named an honorable mention all-america by collegesoccer.com.
Sophomores Dan Zajac and Jeff Parke anchor a young Orexel team, which narrowly missed the America East Championship a
season ago with a 6-3-0 conference mark and a conference-best 10-5-1 overall record.
Hartford slipped to 2-4-3 in America East and 6-10-4 overall last season after going 6-1-2 in the conference and 11-8-2 overall in
4999. The bulk of the talent from the 1999 championship team retums, inciuding first-team all-conference choices Asaf Lubezky (6
goals, 3 assists) and Milton Speid as weil as goalkeeper Chris Doyie (1.40 GAA in 60 career starts).
New Hampshire (3-6-0, 6-10-0), newcomer Albany (8-7-3), Maine (0-8-1, 3-11-2) and Delaware (1-8-0, 3-15-0) all look to improve on
last season's resuits.
ALBANY %*& BINGHAMTON * BOSTON UNIVERSITY * HARTFORD * MAINE #& NEW HAMPSHIRE * NORTHEASTERN * STONY BROOK * VERMONT
Aug-20-2001 12:25pm = From-AMERICA EAST 6176856385 T-160 P.001/001 F873
MERICA Women’s SOCCER
10 High Street, Suite 860, Boston, MA 02110
BE AS ' 617.695.6369 - Fax: 617.695.6385 - www.americaeast.com
™
—— =e
Preseason Release
August 20, 2001
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Matt Bourque
Boston U. is Coaches’ Choice to Repeat as Women's Soccer Champion
BSOSTON— Boston University, which won its first America East Women's Soccer Championship |
last season, has been chosen to repeat as conference champion this year in balloting by the 2001 Preseason Poli
coaches, who were not allowed to vote for their teams. The Terriers received eight of apossible | 1. Boston U. (8) 118 |
11 first-place votes and 118 total votes. University of Hartford, which won the America East 2. Hartford (4) 114
Championship from 1997-89, was second with four first-place votes and 114 total points. 3. Hofstra 97
4. Delaware 87
Hofstra University, which has finished third in each of the past two seasons, was picked at that 5. Towson 80 |
position again with 97 points. University of Delaware was fourth with 87 points. Towson Univer- 8. Northeastern 62 |
sity, which qualified for the America East Championship last season for the first time since 1997, 7. Maine 58 |
was picked fifth with 80 points. Northeastern University, which saw its win total Increase from six 8. New Hampshire 57 |
in 1999 to 11 a year ago, was selected sixth with 62 points. Just a point separated seventh pick 9. Vermont a4
University of Maine (58) from University of New Hampshire (57), University of Vermont (44), Stony 10. Stony Brook 41
Brook University (41), Drexel University (23) and University at Albany (11) rounded out the poll. 11. Drexel 23 |
12. Albany 11
The top six igams in the conference wiii advance to the America East Championship with the
winner of the tournament receiving an automatic bid to the NCAA College Cup.
Boston University was 9-0-0 in America East last season and 16-7-0 overall. The Terriers earned the conference's automatic bid to
the NCAA Championship and defeated Holy Cross in the first round before dropping a second-round decision at Dartmouth. America
East Coach of the Year Nancy Feldman returns five all-conference choices in midfielders Allison Merkle and Teresa Petruccelli,
backs Megan Cross and Lesley Garvey and forward Nicole Soules. Goalkeeper Danielle Demers was 12-4-0 with a 0.91 goals
against average and nine shutouts. The Terriers must replace two-time America East Player of the Year Deidre Enos, who graduated
as the school's career scoring leader with 51 goals and 121 points. Enos now plays for the Philadelphia Charge of the WUSA.
Hartford (8-1-0, 17-4-0) rookie head coach Eva Bergsten, a three-year assistant to Mark Krikorian before Krikorian resigned to
became the head coach of the Philadelphia Charge following the 2000 season, builds around first-team all-conference choices
Susie Woodson (14 goals, 3 assists), the leading returning scorer in America East, Katharina Lindner (4 goals, 12 assists), Cindy
Walsh and Tini Lyng. In addition, second-team choices Jeanette Akerlund (6 goals, 8 assists), Sandra Kayulu and Anne-Liss
Nilssen (14-4-0, 0.93, 9 shutouts) return to a team that made its fourth-straight appearance in the NCAA Championship last year.
Hofstra (7-2-0, 12-5-2) weicomes the return of backs Dolores Deasiey and Erin Magee but must replace graduated scorers Christa
Eidenweil (13 goals) and Penny Stansfield (7 goals, 6 assists) and consistent midfielder Tracey Naughton.
Delaware (4-5-0, 11-7-1) looks to return to the America East Championship after a one-year absence. The Blue Hens return nine
starters including the conference leader in goals against average in junior Rachel Bersin (8-4-1, 0.86, 7 shutouts) and forwards
Brittany Campbell (10 goals, 5 assists) and Fran Termini (7 goals, 2 assists).
Towson was 5-3-1 in America East and 10-8-1 overail thanks in iarge part to a talented rookie class led by Holly Noga (7 goals, 2
assists) and Martha Bielefeld. Senior Maggie Lennon (5 goals, 5 assists) also returns for the Tigers, who graduated first-team ali-
conference goalkeeper Tina Steck {10-8-1, 1.07}.
The good news for Northeastern (5-4-0, 11-7-1) is that goalkeeper Shellie Parkinson (10-6-1, 1 .04) and backs Amy Devendorf and
Emily Haar return. However, leading scorers Kate Mercier (6 goals, 3 assists) and Jen Herlihy (5 goals, 5 assists) graduated and
Tanya Mello, who had nine goals and two assists in 11 games last season as a rookie before suffering a season-ending stress
fracture, was lost for the 2001 season after tearing her anterior cruciate ligament in an off-season conditioning drill.
New Hampshire (2-8-1, 5-12-14) and Vermont (2-7-0, 4-14-0) both look for their first America East Championship appearance since
1998 while Maine (1-7-0, 5-10-0), Drexe! (0-8-0, 4-12-0) and conference newcomers Albany (3-15) and Stony Brook (8-10-1) are all
hoping to reach the tournament for the first time.
© ALBANY ® BINGHAMTON *® BOSTON UNIVERSITY ® HARTFORD *%& MAINE % NEW HAMPSHIRE %& NORTHEASTERN *& STONY BROOK * VERMONT
University at Albany
Sports Information Fax Cover Sheet
To: Sports Department
Organization: Albany Times Union
From: Brian DePasquale
Office: Athletic Media Relations
Phone: (518) 442-3072
Fax: (518) 442-3139
E-Mail: bdepasquale@uamail.albany.edu
Date: 8-20-01 (Monday)
Pages w/cover: 2
Comments: College Sports
UALBANY NAMES 2001 FOOTBALL CAPTAINS
Albany, N.Y. — University at Albany head football coach Bob Ford announced today that Chris
Phillis, Brian Manigault, Brian Green and Josh Bazan have been selected as captains for the
2001 season. The Great Danes open their 11-game schedule on Saturday, September 1
against Towson. Kickoff is 1:00 p.m. at University Field.
Phillis, a senior from Saratoga Springs, N.Y., will serve in a captain’s role for the second
straight year. A second-team All-America split end, Phillis caught 49 passes for 856 yards and
eight touchdowns, and led the team in all-purpose yards at 103.9 per game.
Manigault, a senior tailback, received All-Northeast Conference honors last season. He
established school single-season records with 1,041 rushing yards and 15 touchdowns. Green,
whose brother was a UAlbany captain in 1999, has appeared in 28 career games. A senior
outside linebacker, he made 71 tackles, including 45 solos, and had three pass break-ups.
Bazan, the 2000 Football Gazette I-AA Mid-Major Linebacker of the Year, was a first-
team All-American. He led the defense with 109 tackles, 6.0 sacks, and four fumble recoveries.
BOSTON UNIVERSITY PICKED TO WIN AMERICA EAST WOMEN’S SOCCER TITLE
Boston, Mass. — Boston University, which won its first America East Conference Women’s
Soccer Championship last season, has been chosen to repeat as conference champion in
balloting by the league’s head coaches. Hartford and Hofstra followed the Terriers in the
coaches’ preseason poll, while UAlbany was picked to finish 12th.
Entering their inaugural season in the America East, the UAlbany women’s soccer program
continues to rebuild. Despite posting three wins over its first two seasons at the Division | level
the program is moving in the right direction. Second-year head coach Joanna Tomasino
turned her squad into competitors last season as they were involved in 13 matches decided by
two goals or less.
MORE
ALBANY SPORTS 2-2-2
seven returning letterwinners hope to provide leadership and a foundation for an influx of
newcomers. Tomasino signed ten student-athletes to national letters of intent this past spring,
her first recruiting class at Albany. Junior midfielder Erin Stanek is the squad's top returning
scorer, as she totaled five goals and two assists over her previous two campaigns. Sophomore
goalkeeper Erika Van Zandt finished among the Division | national leaders in saves per game
in 2000. She is coming off a silver medal performance for the Adirondack region at the Empire
State Games.
The Great Danes will play a balanced schedule, including 11 home dates and the season
opener against lona on Friday, August 31. UAlbany hosts the third annual Governor's Cup
(Sept. 15-16). Sacred Heart, St. Peter's and Siena comprise the tournament field.
America East Conference Coaches Preseason Poll
1. Boston U. (8) 118, 2. Hartford (4) 114, 3. Hofstra 97, 4. Delaware 87, 5. Towson 80, 6.
Northeastern 62, 7. Maine 58, 8. New Hampshire 57, 9. Vermont 44, 10. Stony Brook 41, 11.
Drexel 23, 12. Albany 11.
-30-
University at Albany
Sports Information Fax Cover Sheet
To: Sports Department
Organization: Albany Times Union
From: Brian DePasquale
Office: Athletic Media Relations
Phone: (518) 442-3072
Fax: (518) 442-3139
E-Mail: bdepasquale@uamail.albany.edu
Date: 8-15-01 (Wednesday)
Pages w/cover: 1
Comments: College Sports
UALBANY SIGNS DEAL WITH WNYT-TV
TO AIR FOOTBALL AND BASKETBALL PROGRAMS
Albany, N.Y. — University at Albany Director of Athletics and Recreation Lee
McElroy announced today an agreement with WNYT-TV (NewsChannel 13) to air
both a football and basketball show in the 2001-02 academic year.
WNYT will broadcast “Inside the Huddle — UAlbany Football” for the first time
this fall. The 30-minute program airs on Saturdays at 12 noon, beginning
September 15. The nine-show schedule runs consecutively through Nov. 17, with
the exception of Sept. 29 when NBC has the Ryder Cup golf event.
For the sixth straight year, WNYT will televise “Hoop Games — Great Danes
Basketball”. UAlbany’s men’s and women’s basketball programs will be featured
for 10 consecutive weeks, beginning January 5, 2002.
WNYT sports anchor Rodger Wyland, who serves as play-by-play
announcer for UAlbany football and basketball on WOFX Radio, will host the
package of shows.
“This agreement provides maximum exposure for nearly a six-month period,”
McElroy said. “Football and basketball are highlighted, but the other assets of the
University and athletic program will receive attention. We are grateful to Steve
Baboulis and WNYT that our many alumni, fans and friends will be provided with
both consistent and quality programming about UAlbany athletics.”
The Great Danes are competing in football at the NCAA Division I-AA level
for a third season, and play in the Northeast Conference. The third-year Division |
basketball programs are in the America East Conference for the first time.
-30-
AUG-14-01 13:39 FROM:NORTHEAST CONF ID: 73256280836 PAGE 1/%
Northeast Conference NORTHEAST
220 Oid New Brunswick Rd. ¢ Suite 201 ¢ Piscata way, New Jersey 08854
(732}) 562-0877 + Fax (732) 562-8838 - www.northeastconference.ora
For Immediate Release a W
August 14, 2001 ‘
Robert Morris Selected As Unanimous Northeast Conference Footbali Favorite
Colonials Set Sights On Sixth Consecutive NEC Championship
Piscataway, N) -- Robert Morris has stood as king of the hill during the first five years the NEC has sponsored
football as aleague sport. According to a preseason poll of NEC head coaches, this may not change anytime in the Northeast Conference
near future as the Colonials are a unanimous choice to capture a sixth straight conference championship. Sacred 2001 Football
Heart. the 2000 NEC runner-up, was selected second, with Wagner claiming third and Albany fourth. Monmouth Preseason Coaches Poll
finished fifth in the poll, followed by Central Connecticut State, Stony Brook, St. John’s and St. Francis (PA).
——
|
Robert Morris (8) |
The Robert Morris football program has enjoyed unprecedented success since the hiring of Joe Walton as the Sacred Heart (1)
l.
2
Colonials’ first head coach in 1993. Walton, who helmed the New York Jets from 1983-89, has posted a 52-18- 3 |
1 record in eight seasons at Robert Mornis, including a spectacular 26-2 record against NEC opposition. He is 4. Albany |
a three-time NEC Coach of the Year recipient, and Jed the Colonials to their first-ever undefeated campaign and >. Monmouth |
0
7
second consecutive I-AA Mid-Major crown last season. Robert Morris, which carries a 17-game winning streak Central Connecticut Staie
into the upcoming season, returns an experienced and lethal offensive unit, along with several skilled veterans on . Stony Brook
defense from a team that set an NEC record with ten victories in 2000. 8. St John's
9. St. Francis (PA)
The Robert Morris attack revolves around consummate veteran quarterback Tim Levcik (Ford Cliff, PA/ First place voles in parentheses |
Ford City), a two-time first team all-NEC honoree and the 2000 NEC Offensive Player of the Year. Levcik, a senior . |
who set school records in passing yardage (1,925 yards), completions (142) and touchdowns (21) last season, | Coaches are not permitted to vote for |
is as Cool as thev come, leading the Colonials to fourth quarter, come-from-behind vicories over Dayton, Wagner | sian nee
and Sacred Heart last season. He also developed a terrific chemistry with then freshman tight end Brent
Hockenberry (Kittanning, PA/Kittanning), the NEC Offensive Rookie of the Year, who caught 34 passes, including eight for touchdowns. In the
backfield, Robert Mornis returns senior Sam Dorsett (Hollywood, FL/Flanagan), a lightning quick tailback who led the NEC with 1,219 yards rushing
and was honored on the all-NEC first team. Designated touchdown scorer and superb blocker Nick Daniel (Cincinnati, OH/Summit Country Day) also
retums at fullback. On the offensive line, the Colonials possess two of the league's best in senior center Mark Leyenaar (Palm Harbor, FL/East Lake)
and senior nght tackle Pat Linberg (Renovo, PA/Bucktail Area).
While the defense Jost six starters, including three first-team all-stars, the Colonials do retum five players with at least two years of starting experience. Seniors
Maii Grayson (Front Royal, VA/Warren County) and Chris Young (Dayton, OH/Patterson) will anchor the defensive line, while senior linebacker
Brad Miller (Lancaster, Of/Amanda Ciearcreek), the 1998 NEC Defensive Rookie of the Year, is the team’s leading returning tackler with 70 stops.
Senior comerback Joe Austin (Waldorf, MD/Westlake) (three inierceptions) and junior free safetv Jason Hempstead (Richmond, VA/Highland
Springs) head up a secondary that allowed a league-low eight touchdown passes last season.
Robert Mormis also retums stellar senior placekicker Jeff Carlo (Wilkes-Barre, Pa/Elmer Meyers). Carlo is the NEC’s career leader with 29 field-goals
and is a two-time all-star who booted a 55-yard field-goal in last year’s season opener versus Buffalo State.
“We've been blessed the last two years with leadership from the upperclassmen,” said Walton. “If we're going to be a strong team, it starts with the senior
class, leadership and chemistry, because football is the ultimate team sport. Sizing up the competition in the NEC this season, Walton stated, “Wagner's always
tough. Albany just came in the league a few years ago and is a good football team, and Sacred Heart has really improved. The thing about aii of those schools
is they have three good coaches. We've been pushed to the limit, and i don't expect that to change.”
1-of-4
Central Connecticut State University * Fairleigh Dickinson University * Long Island University
University of Maryland Baltimore County » Monmouth University * Mount St. Mary’s College
Quinnipiac University « Robert Morris College * Sacred Heart University + St. Francis (NY) Coilege
St. Francis (PA) University - Wagner Coliege
AUG-14-901 13:39 FROM:NORTHEAST CONF ID: 732562688638 PAGE
Coming off a 10-1 season and #5 ranking in the final Don Hansen I-AA Mid-Major Poll, Sacred Heart fans had every reason tobe proud of their eas melee
rise (o national prominence. Head coach Jim Fleming, the architect of Sacred Heart’s remarkable numnaround last season, will held an experienced group (21
of 22 starters return) that bas its sights set on bringing an NEC championship to the Fairfield-based university. “J think I share every coaches sentiment at
keeping players healthy is 2 major factor in being successful,” said Fleming. “I also feel that our ability to handle Toad games against Robert on
and Wagner wil have tremendous unpact on the outcome of our season. We must continue to funcuon ata championship level in a three phases of the game
(offense, defense and kicking).” The top three players on offense return in 2001, including senior quarterback Justin Holtfreter (Lancaster, Ca/Antelope
Valley CC), who set school records with 149 completions, 1,849 passing yards and 14 touchdown passes after transferring from Antelope Valley JC in California
tast season. He is blessed with a loaded receiving core, including second team all-NEC wide receiver DeVeren Johnson (San Diego, Ca/Champlain jc)
(39 catches, 593 yards, 6 TD's), along with running mates Doug Geoffrey (Meriden, C1/0.H. Platt) (34 catches) and Andrew Gonzalez (Windham,
CT/Windham) (28 catches). With senior Brandon Graham (Chesire, CT/Crosby) (533 yards) opening the holes at fullback, Marvin Royal (Pieas-
antville, Nj/Fairfield U.), a transfer from Fairfield, was spectacular last season, finishing second in the conference with 1,068 yards rushing. Royal set a
single-game school record with 302 yards against Iona, and was subsequently featured in Sports Illustrated. Senior Marty Weimann (Florence, MA/
Northhampton) (6-6, 300 Ibs.) and junior Jason St. John (Watertown, CT/Watertown) (6-5, 270 Ibs.) are the top returning offensive ineman. Junior
placekicker Tim Redican (Meriden, CT/Francis T. Maloney) set an NEC single-season mark with 16 field-goals last year. The Pioneers yielded 31.7 ppg
in 1999, but lowered that figure to 13.4 ppg last season, second in the nation. The catalyst: junior linebacker Kayode Mayowa (Providence, RI/LaSalle
Academy), who was named the NEC Defensive Player of the Year. Mayowa led the Pioneers in tackles (123), tackles-for-losses (15), sacks (5.5) and forced
fumbles (3), and is approaching NEC career marks in the first two categories. Leading a ternfic secondary is senor Kiheme Cowan (Woodbridge, NJ/
Woodbridge), who made a seamless transition from all-NEC running back in 1999 to all-NEC comerback in 2000. He is joined by junior Pete Athans
(Ocean, Nj/Ocean Township), the team’s third leading tackler with 76 stops, and sophomore Brian Pawlowski (Branchburg, NJ/Immaculata), the
2000 NEC Defensive Rookie of the Year. Pawlowski tied for third in the league with four interceptions. On the defensive line, junior Kyle St. George
(Guilford, CT/Guiiford) and senior Shawa Hubbard (Neptune, NJ/Fort Scott CC (KS)) combined for 10.5 sacks.
With 20 straight seasons of .500 ball or better under Walt Hameline, Wagner has consistently established itself as one of the better I-AA mid-major
programs in the nation. Always stocked with blue-chip talent, the question remains whether or not the Seahawks can make it over the hump and wrest the NEC
crown from Robert Morris. “We bave the ability to lineup and compete every week,” said Hameline. “Each week is going to be a test for us since the league
is so balanced this year; however, our goal is to win the league as it is every season. The key to our success this season is our offensive line. They need to
step up and gel as a unit. We couldn't min the ball very well last year and we need to do a better job at that this season to complement our passing game.” If
Wagner is to challenge for its first-ever conference crown, it will be due to the play of senior quarterback Aaron Smith (Schenectady, NY/Mohonasen),
the straw that stirs the drink for the league’s most potent passing attack. A utility player and backup quarterback prior to last season, Smith was spectacular
in 2000, setting school and NEC single-season records with 2,346 yards passing, 2,467 yards of total offense and 25 touchdown passes. Unfortunately for
Smith, he will be without the two most prolific receivers in NEC history this season as Jason Bain and Chuck Kinsley were both lost to graduation. Returning
are tight end Daryn Plummer (Somerset, NJ/Franklin), who caught a league-high ten touchdown passes, and slothack Lou Simone (Staten Island, NY/
Tottenville), who combined for 68 receptions last year. Senior Jobn Campbell (Sunrise, FL/Plantation) will likely finish as the second all-time leading
rusher in NEC history behind former teammate Rick Sarille, while sophomore halfback Chris Davis (Windsor, CI/Tabor Academy) has enormous potential.
Lip front, right tackle Josef Dunn (Southbury, CT/Holy Cross) and center Bob Hansbury (Westmont, NJ/Haddon Township), both seniors, were
tabbed second team all-NECin 2000. Wagner returns six defenders from last season’s team that finished third in the nation in total defense. Junior defensive
end Tim Heaney (Lincroft, NJ/Middletown South), a preseason all-NEC choice, made 17 tackles behind the line of scrimmage a year 290. The Seahawks
typically feamure an outstanding linebacker core, and this season is no different. Two-ume all-star Mike Steed (Poughkeepsie, NY/N.Y. Military
Academy) joins Jeremy Balina (Nephune, NJ/Neptune), who led the defense with 98 tackles, 21 tackles behind the line of scrmmage and an astounding
six forced fumbles, to form a strong nucleus. In the secondary, Ryan Castellani (Peckville, PA/Valley View) comes off a terrific freshman campaign that
saw him pick off five passes, second in the conference. He also led the NEC in punt retum average (13.0 ypr).
After a rebuilding year, Albany will likely claw their way back into the tile picture this season under 29th year head coach Bob Ford. The Great Danes retum
21 starters, including eight back on an offense that ranked 1 4th nationally in rushing and averaged 31.1 ppg, “We will have to remain healthy, but we should
have a very competitive football team,” said Ford. “Our defensive line will have to improve, but we have the capability of putting some points on the
scoreboard.” On offense, Albany returns superb senior running back Brian Manigault (Uniondale, NY/Hempstead), a second team all-NEC pick last
season after rushing for 1,037 yards and scoring 15 touchdowns, both school records. Junior quarterback Ryan Roeder (Bethiehem Catholic/
Bethlehem, PA), who improved by leaps and bounds last season, must recover from offseason knee surgery. His favorite target, senior Chris Phillis
(Saratoga Springs, NY/Saratoga Springs), is the league's leading returning pass catcher (49 recepuons, 856 yards, 8 touchdowns) and a second team
all-NEC wideout who also underwent surgery in the offseason on his shoulder. The offensive line, stung by the graduation of NEC all-stars j.T. Herfurth and
Rafael Cruz, is anchored by 6-1, 295 Ib. left guard Alex Argulewicz (Wallkill, NY/Wallkill Central), a second team all-NEC member. The defense looks
to return to form in 2001, behind the play of first team all-NEC competitors and former high school teammates Josh Bazan (Bronx, NY/Cardinal
Spellman) and Samson Brown (Bronx, NY/Cardinal Spellman). One of the league's top defensive players at inside linebacker, Bazan paced the Great
Danes in tackles (106). tackles-for-losses (17), sacks (4.5), forced fumbles (3) and fumble recoveries (4) in his sophomore season. Ajumor free safety,
Brown ranked third on the team with 80 stops. Junior cornerback Jelani Dandles (Albany, NY/Bishop Maginn) was 2 1999 all-conference performer
who picked off two passes last season.
2-of-4
2/7
AUG-14-01 13:48 FROM:NORTHEAST CONF ID: 732562886368 PAGE
Two-time NEC co-champions (1996 and 1998), Monmouth appears primed to vault back into the upper echelon of the conference ranks after a promising 2000
campaign that saw the teara win four of its last sxx outings. Buoyed by a swarming defensive unit that led the nation in total defense and passing defense last season,
the Hawks should remain competitive on a week-to-week basis, But itis the team’s offensive firepower - which head coach Kevin Caliahan sought io upgrade
during the offseason - that may be the determining factor in the team's ultimate success. “We came on strong at the end of the 2000 season,” said Callahan. “The
momentum generated by our success late in the season continued through the winter and into spring practice. J like our chances in 2001. We need to be more
explosive and consistent on offense, and we need to replace some key players that graduated from our defense." One of the NEC's top all-around running backs,
senior Matt Merklinger (West Orange, NJ/Seton Hall Prep) blossomed Jast season in an offense tailored to his talents. Merklinger ranked fourth in the
league in rushing yardage (9) 3) second in scoring (84 points) and led all NEC backs in receptions (29). The second team all-NEC pick developed a terrific
chemistrv with then freshman quarterback Bill Rankin (Toms River, NJ/Toms River South), who took over starting duties in only his second game,
Blessed with a strong arm, Rankin threw for 1,355 yards and nine touchdowns. Senior Uriel Riley (Glassboro, NJ/Glassboro) and sophomore Bill Lyna
(Fair Lawn, Nj/Fair Lawn) are Rankin’s top returning targets al wideout. Senior tackle Matt Herdman (Bergenfield, NJ/Bergenfield) was a first-team
alj-NEC selection and is the backbone of a Monmouth offensive line that returns all five regulars. Despite the loss of five starters, the Hawks return an array of
top-notch talent on defense. Junior defensive end Chris Ammacher (Hawthorne, NJ/Hawthorne), 2 preseason all-NEC pick, is the lone returning starter
on the defensive line. Atlinebacker, junior Joe Sentipal (Hasbrouck Heights, NJ/Hasbrouck Heights) has emerged as one of the signature players at his
position. Last season, he set a new NEC record with 15.5 sacks and made 24 stops behind the line of scrimmage to earn first eam all-NEC plaudits. He is joined
by junior Mike DiBella (Manalapan, N}/Manalapan), the team’s leading tackler with 94 stops. Filth year senior free safety Aaron Edwards (Jackson,
NJ/Jackson), a two-time NEC all-star who missed all but three games last season due to injuries, heads up the secondary.
Change is in the air for the Central Connecticut State football program. After a nine-year run, Sal Cintorino was replaced by Paul Schudel, who brings
35 years of football experience to the New Britain campus. Schudel, who led Ball State to two Mid-American Conference championships when he helmed the
Cardinals program from 1985-94, has his work cut out for him with just two starters returning on an offense that ranked seventh in the league in sconng, “I
think that we have a chance to be competitive,” said Schudel. “We have along way to go to be where we want our program to be, but I think that we have started
to put some of the pieces in place that will allow us to give everyone in the conference a solid game every week.” The lone starters coming back on offense are
junior running back Clinton Dunston (New Bedford, MA/New Bedford) and junior guard Gaeton Camillo (Sloan, NY/St. Francis), a two-year
starter on the offensive line. Dunston started slowly last season, but found his stride over the last four games of the season when he averaged nearly 125 vpg
and helped lead the Blue Devils to victories in their final two contests. All eyes will be on strong-armed freshman quarterback Scott Dolch (Finksburg,
MD/Hargrave Military), who will likely inherit the job as starting quarterback. Things are a little more settled on the opposite side of the ball. The
linebacker core and secondary remain nearly intact for Schudel, one of the few luxuries he can take comfort in this season. Junior linebacker Travis Lewis
(Brentwood, NY/Breatwood) paced the team with 5.0 sacks last season, while senior Ian Whittingham (Bloomfield, CT/Milford Prep), 2 three-
vear starter, led the Blue Devils with 116 tackles, more than doubling the total of any other CCSU player. Junior Dontae Muse (Elizabeth, N\/Elizabeth),
a talented cornerback who finished second on the squad with seven passes defended, is joined by fellow defensive backs Emmanuel Goncalves (Roxbury,
MA/South Boston), ajunior, and Major Williams IN} (Norwich, CY/Salisbury Prep), a sophomore. Junior tackle Michael Kirk (Stormville, NY/
Carmel) is a proven hand on the defensive line.
Stony Brook struggled last season after 2 promising NEC debut in 1999. Head coach Sam Kornhauser, Stony Brook’s coach since the inception of the
program in 1984, will have his work cut out for him this season with the loss of the school’s all-time leading rusher Ralph Menendez, along with quarterback
Brian Stanley. On the positive side, the Seawolves return seven starters on offense and nine on defense. “I think we have a maturing football team that will play
hard and compete every week,” said Kornhauser. “We must play with confidence, stay healthy, execute on special teams and play smarter in imporiant game
situations.” The quarterback situation remains up in the air. Heir apparent David Rodriguez (Long Branch, N)/Long Branch), who filied in admirably
al times as a freshman last season for Stanley, was slowed by emergency appendectomy surgery in April, opening the door for junior Scott Bard
(Plantsville, CT/Southington), who hasn't played a down at quarterback in two seasons. Sophomore Clinton Graham (Milton, MA/Worcester
Academy) will inherit Menendez’ slot at running back after averaging over five yards-per-carry last season. The Seawolves will be solid at wideout with
leading returning receiver Chris McGovern (Deer Park, NY/Deer Park) (22 receptions) teaming with senior Lucas Niskanen (Bronx, NY/Lehman),
who averaged 50 receptions over his first wo seasons but was hampered by a separated shoulder in 2000. Senior right guard Tom Marshall (Staten Isiand,
NY/Yottenville) , an NEC all-star in 1999, is one of four returning starters on the offensive line, All three defensive line starters are back in 2001, headed by
junior tackle Shaldon Watson (Bronx, NY/John F. Kennedy), who topped the team with 4.0 quarterback takedowns last season. The Seawolves boast
a strong contingent at linebacker, led by senior leader John Phelan (Parlin, N)/ Wardlaw Hartridge) and junior Aiden Smith (Rockville Center, NY/
Malverne), who paced the team with 66 tackles. After missing the last nine games of the 2000 season due to an ankle injury sustained in the opener, senior
strong safety Dan Bertzos (Plantsville, CT/Southington) makes his way back into the secondary. Bertzos was Stony Brook’s leading tackler in 1999.
Cornerbacks Jermaine Addison (Westbury, NY/Westbury), a junior, and Chad King (Ocean T ownship, NJ/Ocean Township), 2 sophomore, each
picked off four passes last season.
3-of-4
3/7
AUG-14-901 13:41 FROM:NORTHEAST CONF ID: 7325626838 PAGE 4/7
With a winning tradition in place, including a 54-32 record since 1993, head coach Bob Ricca is counting on a bounce-back season for St John’s after an
uncharacteristic 5-6 record in 2000. To do so, the Red Storm will have to fill some holes on their nationally ranked defense - most notably the departure of
all-NEC linebacker Josiah Mooney - and jump start a young offense that labored at times iast season. “We're very young but we have a great group of spirited
and focused kids who will come to battle each week,” said Ricca. “Maturation is a key, especially at some of the key positions like quarterback, running back
and receiver. In addition, we need someone to step up defensively like a Josiah Mooney (iost to graduation) who did a great job at linebacker for us a year
ago, And, as always, you have to keep your injuries down in order to be successful.” Returning to trigger the offense is incumbent quarterback Matt
Millheiser (Shoreham, NY/Shoreham Wading River), who assumed starting duties midway through his freshman season. If he can fend off challengers
during training camp, Millheiser’s modest numbers are likely to improve with the continued development of junior wideouts Anthony Muniz (Dennis, NY/
Worcester Academy) and Matt May (Medford, NY/Patchogue-Medford), who collected 18 and 17 passes, respectively. In the backfield, fleet-footed
sophomore Derek Jones (Pittsfield, MA/Berkshire Schoo}) was slowed by injuries afier a tremendous start that saw him gain 109 yards in his first
collegiate game. St. John’s retums four starters on the offensive line, including mammoth center john Musanie (Oceanside, NY/Oceanside), who checks
in at 6-3, 310 lbs. The strength of the Red Storm team lies in a superb defense that ranked second in the nation in yards allowed last season. Second team all-
NEC nose guard Shawn Oliver (Yonkers, NY¥/Rooseveit), who finished second on the team in sacks (4.5), is back for his semor season. Another senior,
middle linebacker Chris Posillico (Bayshore, NY/Bayshore) totaled 76 stops and is the Red Storm's leading returning tacWler. In the secondary, senior
comerback Allistair Sebastien (Roosevelt, N¥/Roosevelt) has drawn the attention of NFL scouts, despite an injury-shortened 2000 campaign, while
fellow defensive back and high schoo] teammate Jamal Lambert (Roosevelt, N¥/Roosevelt) picked off three passes as a junior.
Things bottomed out for St. Francis (PA) jast season, as the program suffered through a winless campaign for the second time in three years. An improved
defense, along with the maturity of several key skill position players on offense has head coach Dave Jaumotte optimistic he can help tum around the
program's fortunes in 2001. “We certainly expect to be more consistent this season in every game and in game situations,” said Jaumotte. “We have more
continuity within the program and our players are confident entering the preseason. The players have been committed to a rigorous offseason conditioning
program and their hard work should pay off this fall.” After a steliar prep career, quarterback Randy White (Portsmouth, RI/Bishop Hendricken)
received a baptism by fire in his freshman season. As White adjusted to the collegiate game, advances in his play became evident He tossed six touchdowns
over the last six games, and should benefit from the return of Cedric Hudson (Harrisburg, PA/Bishop McDevitt) at wideout, a speedster who can stretch
the defense. junior wideout Matt Rycblicki (Greensburg, PA/Hempfieid) is a dependable target who caught five touchdowns last season. Sophomore
running back Michaei Hali (Baltimore, MD/Parkvilie) brings a big-piay element to the Red Flash offense. Hall accounted for over 96 percent of St.
Francis (PA's rushing offense last season and is also a potent receiver out of the backfield. Led by junior Albert Hammers (Warriors Mark, PA/Tyrone),
Jaumotte expects improved play out of an experienced offensive line. Jaumotte’s top priority is to put together a cohesive defensive unit. Some talentis already
in piace, including senior noseguard Veaon Sheiton (Indianapolis, IN/SUNY-Canton), who led all Red Flash lineman in tackles (61) and tackles-for-losses
(7). Linebackers Joe Ott (Lehighton, PA/Marian Catholic), a junior, and Gavin Miller (Camp Hili, PA/Camp Hill), a sophomore, ranked second and
third respectively, on the team in stops last season. The comerstone of the defense is junior free safety Daunte Neal (Marbury, MD/Lackey) , who was named
to the all-NEC second team last year after setting a league record with 139 tackles. He is joined by sophomore comerback Jimmy Landrom (Pontiac, MI/
Pontiac Northern), who paced St. Francis with nine pass breakups and is one of the conference's top punt and kickoff returners.
4-01-4
AUG-14-901 13:42 FROM:NORTHEAST CONF ID: 7325628636 PAGE 5/7
Northeast Conference CONFERENCE
220 Oid New Brunswick Rd. ° Suite 201 » Piscataway, New Jersey 08854
(732) 562-0877 ° Fax (732) 562-8838 « www.northeastconference.org
>. aan
For Immediate Release
August 14, 2001
2001 Preseason All-Northeast Conference Football Team Announced
Robert Morris Lands NEC-High Seven Players On Team
Piscataway, NJ -- The Northeast Conference announced its 2001 preseason all-NEC football team, which was chosen in voting conducted by
the league's nine head coaches. Preseason favorite Robert Morris earns seven spots on the squad, followed by Sacred Heart with five and
Albany and Wagner, both of whom are represented with four players. Monmouth adds three players, while St. Francis (PA) and St. John’s each
placed a single player on the team.
Robert Mors senior Tum Leveik (Ford Cif, PA/Ford City) was the coaches choice at quarterback. The 2000 NEC Offensive Player of the
Year, Levcik completed 142-267 passes for 1,925 yards and 21 touchdowns last season. A pinpoint passer (he tossed just nine interceptions),
the Ford Cliff, PA native set school records in passing yardage, completions and touchdowns to help jead the Colonials to a perfect 10-0 record
and their fifth consecutive NEC Championship. Levcik, who was named to the all-NEC first team in 1999 and was the NEC Offensive Rookie of
the Year as a freshman, engineered three fourth quarter come-from-behind victones last season as Robert Mornis ranked first in the I-AA Mid-
Major Poli for a second straight season. in his three years as a starter, the Colomiais have posted a 22-8 record.
The league's top two returning ground gainers - Robert Morris junior Sam Dorsett (Holiywood, FL/Flanagan) and Sacred Heart senior
Marvin Royal (Pleasantville, Nj/Fairfield University) - comprise the preseason all-NEC backfield. Dorsett led the conference with
1,219 vards, scored nine touchdowns and averaged a robust 5.6 yards-per-carry to earn first-team ali-NEC plaudits. He rushed for 100+ yards
on six occasions and in a true display of consistency, never gained less than 73 yards in a single contest. Royal was no less impressive in spicing
up Sacred Heart's running game, collecting 1,068 yards and ten touchdowns en-route to being named a first-team all-league performer a year
ago. Royal, who averaged 4.8 yards-per-rush, exploded for an NEC season-high and school record 302 yards in a win over Iona. The
performance landed the workhorse back a spot in Sports Ilustrated’s Faces In The Crowd the following week.
Albany senior Chris Phillis (Saratoga Springs, NY/Saraioga Springs) and Sacred Heart senior DeVeren Johnson (San Diego, CA/
Champiain JC) are the coaches selections at wide receiver. The fleet-footed Phillis ranked second in the league in receptions and receiving
yardage after corralling 49 passes for 856 yards last season. A two-time NEC all-star who caught eight touchdown passes in 2000, Phillis set
a conference single-game record when he accounted for 251 receiving yards (on six catches) against Robert Morris in a November game.
Johnson made a seamless transition from basketball to football last year and at 6-6, 215 |bs., dwarfed most NEC comerbacks and confounded
opposing defenses with his leaping ability and acrobatic catches. He reeled in a team-high 39 passes for 593 yards and six touchdowns and was
rewarded with second team alJ-NEC honors.
Robert Morris sophomore tght end Brent Hockenberry (Kittanning, PA/Kittanning) gets the nod at tight end. One of only three
freshman to attain ali-star status last season - he was picked to the second-team - Hockenberry led all NEC tight ends with 34 catches for 624
yards, The 2000 NEC Offensive Rooke of the Year caught seven of his eight touchdowns over the final five games of the season and ranked first
in the conference with an outstanding 18.4 yards-per-catch.
1-of-3
Central Connecticut State University * Fairleigh Dickinson Universi iversi
) U ty * Long Island Universi
University of Maryland Baltimore County - Monmouth University * Mount St Mary’s iy
Quinnipiac University « Robert Morris College - Sacred Heart University * St. Francis (NY) College
St. Francis (PA) University * Wagner Coiiege
AUG-14-01 13:42 FROM:NORTHEAST CONF ID: 73256288638 PAGE 6/7
Robert Morris senior center Mark Leyenaar (Paim Harbor, Fi/East Lake) and senior tackle Pat Linberg (Renovo, PA/Bucktail
Area) earn two of the five spots on the preseason all-NEC offensive line. Leyenaar was tabbed first-team all-conference in each of the last nwo
seasons, while Linberg was named to the first-team last year. Joining the two Colonials are Albany guard Alex Argulewicz (Wallkill, NY/
Wallkill Central), Monmouth senior tackle Matt Herdman (Bergenfield, Nj/Bergenfield) and Wagner senior tackle Josef Duan
(Southbury, CT/Holy Cross). All three players were NEC all-stars last season; Herdman was a first-team award winner, while Argulewicz and
© Dunn picked up second team honors.
Monmouth junior Chris Ammacher (Hawthorne, Nj/Hawthorne), Robert Mornis senior Matt Grayson (Front Royal, VA/Warren
County), Wagner junior Tim Heaney (Lincroft, NJ/Middletown South) and St. John’s senior Shawn Oliver (Yonkers, NY/Roosevelt)
comprise the preseason all-NEC defensive line. Grayson (first-team) and Oliver (second-team) were all-conference performers one year ago.
Grayson, the only unanimous selection on defense, led all Colonial defensive lineman with 54 tackles, including nine behind the line of
scrimmage. Oliver helped spearhead a Red Storm defense that ranked second in the nation in total yardage allowed by accounting for nine
tackles-for-losses and 4.5 sacks. Ammacher was a vital cog on the top-ranked defense in I-AA, securing 11 stops for negative yardage and 2.0
sacks for the Hawks. Though undersized for his position (6-2, 215 lbs.), Heaney came up big for the Seahawks last season, totaling $7 tackles
(17 for losses) and 4.0 sacks.
Three superb linebackers head up the NEC’s deepest and most talented position, including 2000 NEC Defensive Player of the Year Kayode
Mayowa (Providence, Ri/LaSalie Academy) of Sacred Heart. He is joined by Albany's Josh Bazan (Bronx, NY/Cardinal Spellman)
and Monmouth’s joe Sentipal (Hasbrouck Heights, NJ/Hasbrouck Heights). Mayowa, 2 first-team all-NEC selection in 1999, ranked
third in the conference in tackles (123), sixth in fumbles forced (3) and eighth in sacks (5.5) and tackles-for-losses (15). With 43 career hits
behind the line of scrimmage and 241 total stops, Mayowa is on pace to smash existing career league records in both categories in just his
junior season. Sentipal landed a spot in the NEC record book last season when he set a conference record with 15.5 sacks. Prior to being
named a first-team all-star, he was also credited with 88 tackles, including a league-high 24 for losses. Bazan came into his own as a
sophomore and claimed first-team alJ-NEC accolades. Bazan paced Albany and ranked in the NEC top-15 in tackles (106), tackles-for-losses
(17), sacks (4.5), fumbles forced (3) and fumble recoveries (4).
Three junior free safeties - Albany’s Samson Brown (Bronx, NY/Cardinal Spellman), Wagner's Ryan Castellani (Peckville, PA/
Valley View) and St, Francis (PA)’s Daunte Neal (Marbury, MD/lackey) - join Sacred Heart senior cornerback Kiheme Cowan
(Woodbridge, NJ/Woodbridge) to form the preseason all-NEC secondary, A Superb one-on-one cover man, Cowan did not miss a beat in
making the shift from running back to cornerback last year. In doing so, he became the first player in NEC history to earn all-league honors
on both sides of the ball. Cowan broke up six passes and picked off three more Jast season for a Pioneer team that ranked second in the nation
in passing defense. Brown is a two-time all-NEC first-team pick who made 80 stops for the Great Danes last season. Castellani was a second-
team all-star in 2000 who contributed 59 tackles (nine for losses) and ranked second in the conference with five interceptions. Neal set an
NEC single-season record with 139 tackles a year ago for the Red Flash. He also picked off two passes, broke up four more and recovered four
fumbles.
A formidable special teams unit is highlighted by Robert Morris placekicker Jeff Carlo (Wilkes-Barre, PA/Elmer Meyers). Carlo is a
three-time all-conference honoree who holds the NEC career record with 29 field-goals and ranks third in scoring with 198 points. In 2000,
Carlo converted 11-15 field-goal attempts and 40-44 PAT’s, He also booted the longest field-goal in NEC history, a $5-yarder in a win over
Buffalo State. Sacred Heart senior punter Mike Kraft (North Arlington, NJ/North Arlington) and Wagner junior return specialist Ryan
Castellani (Peckville, PA/Valley View) round out the unit. Kraft ranked second among league punters with an average of 36.6 yards-per-
Kick. A second team all-star, he also dropped an NEC-best 16 punts inside the 20 yardline. Castellani is the lone player to earn preseason all-
league honors at multiple positions. He led the circuit with a 13.0 punt return average and returned a kick 72 yards for a touchdown in an
October win over Stony Brook.
2-of-3
AUG-14-81 13:43 FROM:NORTHEAST CONF
2001 NEC Football Preseason Coaches Poli
Robert Moms (8)
Sacred Heart (1)
Wagner
Aibany
Monmouth
Central Connecticut State
Stony Brook
St. John's
St. Francis (PA)
CO ONAW WD =
2001 NEC Football Preseason All-Conference Team
Offense
Pos Name School Ht Wt
QB Tim Levcik $ * Robert Mormis 6-6 230
RB Sam Dorsett $ Robert Moms 5-9 190
RB Marvin Royal $ Sacred Heart 5-10 205
WR DeVeren Johnson ! Sacred Heart 6-6 215
WR_ Chris Phillis }* Albany 6-1 195
TE Brent Hockenberry ! Robert Morris 6-3 = 195
OL Alex Argulewicz ! Albany 6-1 295
OL Josef Dunn Wagner 6-4 250
OL Mat Herdman $ Monmouth 6-2 260
OL Mark Leyenaar + Robert Morris 6-4 285
OL Pat Linberg $ Robert Morris 6-3 290
Defense
DL Chris Ammacher Monmouth 6-4 240
DL Mat Grayson $ Robert Morris 6-1 255
DL Tim Heaney Wagner 6-2 215
DL Shawn Oliver St. John’s 6-1 240
LB josh Bazan $ Albany 6-0 210
LB Kayode Mavowa $ Sacred Heart 6-0 215
LB Joe Sentipal $ Monmouth 5-11 225
DB Samson Brown $* Albany 6-i 260
DB Ryan Castellani i Wagner 6-0 178
DB Kiheme Cowan 4 Sacred Heart 5-9 165
DB Daunte Neal t St. Francis (PA) 6-1 180
Special Teams
K Jeff Carlo $ * # Robert Morris 6-0 195
P = Mike Kraft Sacred Heart 6-2 190
RS Ryan Castellani Wagner 6-0 178
$ 2000 First Team AU-NEC Selection |! 2000 Second Team All-NEC Selection
“ 1999 First Team AIl-NEC Selection * 1999 Second Team Ali-NEC Selection
ID: 73256268636
#
Hometown/High Schooi
Ford Cliff, PA/Ford City
Hollywood, FL/Flanagan
Pieasantilie, Nj/Fairfieid U.
San Diego, CA/Champlain JC
Saratoga Springs, NY/Saratoga Springs
Kittanning, PA/Kittanning
Wallkill, NY/Wallkill Central
Southbury, CT/Holy Cross
Bergenfield, Nj/Bergenfieid
Palm Harbor, FL/East Lake
Renovo, PA/Bucktail Area
Hawthome, NY/Hawthorme
Front Royal, VA/Warren County
Lincroft, Nj/Middietown South
Yonkers, NY/Roosevelt
Bronx, NY¥/Cardinai Speliman
Providence, Ri/LaSalie Academy
Hasbrouck Heights, Nj/Hasbrouck Heights
Bronx, N¥/Cardinal Speliman
Peckvilie, PA/Valley View
Woodbridge, NJ/Woodbridge
Marbury, MD/Lackey
Wilkes-Barre, PA/Elmer Meyers
North Arlington, Nj/North Arlington
Peckuille, PA/Valiey View
1998 Ali-NEC Selection
PAGE
"i ©
University at Albany
Sports Information Fax Cover Sheet
To: Sports Department
Organization: Albany Times Union
From: Brian DePasquale
Office: Athletic Media Relations
Phone: (518) 442-3072
Fax: (518) 442-3139
E-Mail: bdepasqualeQuamail.albany.edu
Date: 8-14-01 (Tuesday)
Pages w/cover: 1
Comments: College Sports
UALBANY PICKED FOURTH IN NEC PRESEASON POLL
Piscataway, N.J. — Robert Morris, a winner of five consecutive Northeast Conference football
championships, is a unanimous choice to continue its winning ways with today’s announcement
of the NEC coaches' preseason poll. The Colonials, who are first in The Sport Network’s I-AA
Mid-Major national rankings, are picked to win the nine-team conference. Sacred Heart, the
2000 NEC runner-up follows, while Wagner and Albany are ranked third and fourth,
respectively, in the nine-team conference.
The Great Danes, who opened preseason camp on Monday, return 17 starters, including
nine on defense and eight on offense. Senior tailback Brian Manigault rushed for 1,041 yards
and 15 touchdowns, both school records, to lead an offense that was ranked among the nation’s
leaders in scoring (31.1 points/game) and rushing (215.2 yards/game). Albany went 5-6 overall
one year ago, but finished fourth in the conference standings with a 5-3 record.
Northeast Conference 2001 Football Preseason Coaches Poll
1. Robert Morris (8), 2. Sacred Heart (1), 3. Wagner, 4. Albany, 5. Monmouth, 6. Central
Connecticut State, 7. Stony Brook, 8. St. John’s, 9. St. Francis, Pa. ( ) —first-place votes
FOUR GREAT DANES NAMED TO PRESEASON ALL-CONFERENCE TEAM
Piscataway, N.J. — Four University at Albany football players were named today to the Northeast
Conference Preseason All-Conference Team, as voted by the league’s head coaches. Split end
Chris Phillis (Saratoga Springs), linebacker Josh Bazan, free safety Samson Brown and
offensive guard Alex Argulewicz were chosen.
Phillis, a second-team All-America wideout by Football Gazette, is the conference’s top
returning receiver with 49 catches, 856 yards and eight touchdowns last season. Phillis, who
ranks among the school's all-time leaders in receptions, receiving yards and touchdown
catches, led the Great Danes in all-purpose yards at 103.9 per game.
Bazan was named the 2000 Football Gazette |-AA Mid-Major Linebacker of the Year. He
led UAlbany in tackles (109), hits for a loss (18), sacks (6.0), fumbles forced (4) and fumbles
recovered. He was fifth among NEC defenders in tackles per game. Brown, a hard-hitting
defender, has made two consecutive appearances on the AIl-NEC first team. As a sophomore,
he totaled 82 tackles, four pass break-ups and recovered a pair of fumbles. Argulewicz, a 6-
foot-1, 295-pound lineman, started 11 games at left guard last year, and blocked for a unit that
averaged 362.4 total yards. -30-
University at Albany
Sports Information Fax Cover Sheet
To: Sports Department
Organization: Albany Times Union
From: Brian DePasquale
Office: Athletic Media Relations
Phone: (518) 442-3072
Fax: (518) 442-3139
E-Mail: bdepasquale@uamail.albany.edu
Date: 8-14-01 (Tuesday)
Pages wi/cover: 1
Comments: College Basketball
UALBANY RECEIVES THREE BASKETBALL COMMITMENTS FOR 2001-02
Albany, N.Y. — University at Albany men’s basketball coach Scott Beeten announced
today that three student-athletes have made commitments to play for the Great Danes in 2001-
02. Rasheed Peterson, a 6-foot-5, 200-pound swingman from Philadelphia, Pa., Janis Pipikis,
a 6-foot-8, 225-pound forward from Ventspils, Latvia, and Jan van den Berg, a 6-foot-10, 220-
pound center from Urk, The Netherlands, have signed enrollment certificates.
Peterson averaged 15.0 points and 3.2 rebounds per game at Kansas City Kansas
Community College last season. He earned all-conference recognition as a freshman when he
scored at a 19.2 clip. Peterson played scholastically at University City High School, and was
named first-team All-Public League and honorable mention all-state.
Pipikis, who is Known for his athleticism and ability to run the floor, has been a member of
the 20-and-under Latvian Junior National Team. He averaged nearly 10 points per game with
the Latvian Ventspils Club on a U.S. Tour in the fall of 2000. van den Berg, a 21-year-old,
played for Zwolle, a first division club in his native country. He averaged 1.9 points, 2.4
rebounds and 1.2 blocks off the bench.
“lam pleased with the type of young people we have brought in here,” said Beeten,
whose program will compete in the America East Conference for the first time this year. “They
come from diverse backgrounds. However, they have a common thread in that they are good
people and are very motivated to succeed as students and athletes. This group improves us
athletically, give us size, and fills a void in the post with regard to rebounding and defense.”
UAlbany previously signed Earv Opong, a 5-foot-7, 135-pound point guard from Bronx,
N.Y. (Sullivan County Community College) and Chris Wyatt, a 6-foot-6, 210-pound forward
from Horsham, Pa. (Hatboro-Horsham H.S.).
2001 University at Albany Basketball Signings
Name Pos. Cl. Ht. Wt. Secondary School/Hometown
“Earv Opong G Jr. 0-/ 135 Christopher Columbus/Bronx, N.Y.
+Rasheed Peterson G/F Jr. 6-5 200 University City/Philadelphia, Pa.
Janis Pipikis F Fr. 6-8 225 Ventspils/Ventspils, Latvia
Jan van den Berg C So. 6-10 220 Deltion School/Urk, The Netherlands
Chris Wyatt z Fr. 6-6 210 Hatboro-Horsham/Horsham, Pa.
*Sullivan County Community College transfer
+Kansas City Kansas Community College transfer
-30-
University at Albany
Sports Information Fax Cover Sheet
To: Sports Department
Organization: Albany Times Union
From: Brian DePasquale
Office: Athletic Media Relations
Phone: (518) 442-3072
Fax: (518) 442-3139
E-Mail: bdepasquale@uamail.albany.edu
Date: 8-10-01 (Friday)
Pages wi/cover: 1
Comments: College Sports
UALBANY MEN’S BASKETBALL ASSISTANT COACH RESIGNS
Albany, N.Y. — University at Albany Director of Athletics and Recreation Lee
McElroy announced today the resignation of Mike Gatley as assistant men’s
basketball coach. Gatley, wno coached on Scott Beeten’s staff for one year, will
become the athletic director at Hammonton High School in New Jersey. UAlbany
will conduct a national search to fill the position.
Gatley coached on the professional level with four different organizations
prior to his arrival at UAlbany. He led the American Basketball Association’s
Trenton Flames to the 1997 league championship. Gatley also served as head
coach and general manager of the Eastern Basketball Association’s Mercer
Marauders in 1998.
Gatley, 39, coached collegiately at Kean College in New Jersey from 1992-
95. As head coach, he guided the program to a combined 50-19 record and the
'95 ECAC Metro New York/New Jersey Division II] championship.
-30-
— ipaeee & Convocation Center 212 * Albany, New York * 12222 Phone 518-442-DANE (3263) * Fax 518-442-3031
ALBANY
For Immediate Release Zoe Contact: Brian DePasquale
Thursday, August 9, 2001 NCAA :DIVISION I (518) 442-3072
UALBANY FOOTBALL OPENS PRESEASON CAMP ON AUGUST 13
ALBANY, N.Y. — Football preseason practice begins at the University at Albany on Monday,
August 13. The Great Danes, who compete at the NCAA Division I-AA level, and play in the
Northeast Conference, will conduct two practices on opening day from 9:00-11:00 a.m. and 3:00-
5:00 p.m. All freshmen and transfers report to camp on Friday, August 10, while the veteran
players will arrive on Sunday.
UAlbany meets Towson in the season opener on Saturday, September 1. Kickoff at University
Field is 1:00 p.m. Media Day is scheduled for Monday, August 20 at 11:30 a.m.
2001 SEASON PREVIEW
Albany dipped slightly in the Northeast Conference standings with a fourth-place finish last year.
But the Great Danes return 17 starters from a team that found its wings in October.
"We have the capability of putting some points on the scoreboard," says Albany coach Bob
Ford, whose teams have averaged more than 32 points per game over the last five seasons. "The
key to our season will be the solidification of an offensive line, the ability to remain healthy, and the
development of our defensive line."
Albany plays an 11-game schedule that includes non-conference opponents Towson, Canisius
and Florida Atlantic. The Great Danes host defending NEC champion Robert Morris on Nov. 10.
OFFENSE: The Great Danes have made good use of a multiple, option scheme in recent
seasons, and last year averaged 31.1 points and 362.4 yards in total offense.
"The toughest offenses to defend are the ones who can run inside with power, run outside with
speed, and throw the ball, deep and short, to a multitude of receivers," Ford says. "I think we've
got that capability."
Preseason camp will determine who will run the attack at quarterback. Ryan Roeder (6-1, 195)
took over the controls in mid-season, and passed for 1,132 yards and nine touchdowns. However,
Roeder, a fierce competitor, is going through rehabilitation after suffering a knee injury during
spring drills.
Marcus Rotondi (6-0, 195) is the lone signal-caller remaining with any game experience.
Rotondi, a physically impressive athlete from Shenendehowa High School, threw for 304 yards and
four TDs, and rushed for 140 yards and two scores.
Albany has a legion of running backs, including senior Brian Manigault (5-9, 195). An AIl-NEC
tailback, Manigault set single-season records with 1,041 rushing yards and 15 touchdowns. "He
has the ability to make the big play, can pound inside, and is very durable, strong and unselfish,"
Ford states.
TB Dustin Wilson is coming off an impressive freshman campaign, as he ran for 351 yards and
seven TDs. Charles Gill (5-9, 210) and Burnt Hills-Ballston Lake graduate Jon George (5-11,
215) showed in the spring that the fullback position is in competent hands.
MORE
ALBANY FOOTBALL 2-2-2
Second-team All-America split end Chris Phillis (Saratoga Springs) has already taken his place
© among the school's all-time receivers. He caught 49 passes for 856 yards and eight touchdowns
last year. "He's a threat every time he touches the ball," Ford says. "Chris has speed,
acceleration, hands and intensity."
SE Jay McFarlane and FL Jonathan Garrick combined for 46 receptions, 483 yards and three
TDs in 2000. Alex Figueroa, Matt Crudo (LaSalle Institute) and Trevon Telford will give the
program its best collection of receivers in recent years. Junior Greg Sigler (6-4, 255) caught 11
passes in his first season as a starter, and has emerged as a productive tight end.
The Great Danes ranked 14th among the national leaders in rushing at 215.2 yards per game
because of a strong offensive line. All-NEC left guard Alex Argulewicz (6-1, 295) is one of three
returning starters. Regan Jones (6-2, 270) has become a solid center, while Ryan Downes (6-2,
300) has moved from tackle to right guard. Redshirt freshman Geir Gudmundson (6-6, 285) has
the ability to keep strong a tradition of imposing left tackles.
DEFENSE: Despite returning nine starters on defense, the coaching staff experimented with
personnel changes during the off-season. The results should provide an improved unit.
"Our defensive line was not able to keep pressure off the linebackers and defensive backs,"
says Ford, whose defense allowed more than four touchdowns per game. "The quarterbacks just
had too much time to pick us apart."
Defensive tackles David Parks (6-0, 265) and Ryan Clair (6-3, 260) were regulars on the line
one year ago. However, Clair, who had 39 tackles and 1.5 sacks, has moved over from his end
spot. Other maneuvers were made at defensive end, where former tight end and Watervliet native
John Bolt (6-4, 240) and Josh MacAnn (6-1, 205) were installed. Keith Caropese (6-2, 240) is
© also in the picture.
"These changes make us a better defensive line, but whether that's good enough only time will
tell," Ford says. "We have to force more turnovers by our opponents, and not give up the long run
Or pass.”
Albany has a talented group of linebackers led by Josh Bazan, a first-team All-America
selection. Bazan (6-0, 210) led his team in nearly every statistical category, including tackles
(109), sacks (6.0), fumbles recovered (4), and fumbles forced (4).
ILB Tim Campe (6-0, 235) posted 75 tackles and six hits for a loss last year. ROV Ryan
MacLean and OLB Brian Green were more than respectable in their first season as starters.
MacLean had 86 tackles, nine pass break-ups and 3.5 sacks, while Green totaled 71 tackles.
"It is certainly the best overall group we've had," Ford states. "Bazan can run fast, read quickly,
and come around the back side of a block. Green and MacLean run to the ball and are nasty.
Campe is usually in the right place at the right time."
Samson Brown, a first-team AIl-NEC free safety for the second straight year, is a key Albany
defender. "He's an all-conference player now, but there is room for improvement," Ford offers.
"He flirts with excellence. If he plays up to the expected level, we will have a pretty good defensive
team." Brown finished with 82 tackles, including 58 solo hits, last season.
Starting cornerbacks Jelani Dandles (Bishop Maginn) and Fred Frese (Scotia-Glenville) are
back. Dandles totaled 44 tackles, two interceptions and broke up five passes. Frese had 50
tackles and eight pass break-ups as a freshman.
KICKING GAME: Place-kicker Bryan Bagstad (Shenendehowa) has scored 50-plus points in
@ back-to-back seasons. Bagstad, who also handles kickoffs, converted 40 of 44 PATs and booted
six field goals last year. Billy Pike was fifth among the NEC's top punters at 35.0 yards per
attempt.
-30-
University at Albany
Sports Information Fax Cover Sheet
To: Sports Department
Organization: Times Union
From: Matt McCullough, Athletic Media Relations
Phone: (518) 442-3072, (518) 442-5733
Fax: (518) 442-3139
E-Mail: mmcecullough@uamail.albany.edu
Date: 8-6-01
Pages w/cover: 1
Comments: COLLEGE SPORTS
UALBANY SOFTBALL SIGNS FOUR PLAYERS FOR 2002
Albany, N.Y.—University at Albany head softball coach Chris Cannata announced today that four
student-athletes have signed national letters of intent to play for the Great Danes in the 2001-02
academic year. The four represent the first America East Conference recruiting class for the program.
“We have a tremendous group of returning upperclassmen, but we had some key injuries
and our lack of depth was an issue for us last season,” Cannata said. “This group of recruits has
exceptional experience, and all of our incoming players could step right in and help us next season.”
Two of the four signees are transfer students, including South Glens Falls graduate Megan
Craft. She batted .389 with four home runs, 25 RBI and 15 stolen bases for Adirondack Community
College in Queensbury, N.Y. two years ago. With a 23-12 overall record, ACC won the National Junior
© College Athletic Association Region II] Championship, while placing fourth at the national tournament.
A three-sport standout in high school, the first baseman was a first-team Foothills Council
all-star on three occasions and helped lead the Bulldogs to the second round of the state tournament as
a senior. She teamed with current Great Dane standout Valerie Terry during her junior season at SGF.
Andrea Smith (Tuscon, Arizona) played the outfield for two seasons at Eastern Arizona
College. Smith led the Arizona Community College Athletic Conference (ACCAC) in batting with a .494
average and posted a .637 on-base percentage from the leadoff spot in 2001. She garnered secona-
team All-ACCAC honors, as well as being named to the AlI-NJCAA Region | and All-West Division |
teams. The Gila Monsters were a combined 63-45 overall in her two seasons.
Pitcher Danielle Buyea was 21-8 with a 0.76 ERA as a senior for Monroe-Woodbury High
School. The Harriman, N.Y., native also batted .337 to guide her team to the Section IX, Class A title,
firing a two-hitter in the championship game. Buyea was selected first-team All-Section IX and fourth-
team all-state as Monroe-Woodbury advanced to the second round of the state tournament.
Jenni Barros, a second baseman from Poulsbo, Wash., batted .293 to help lead North
Kitsap High School to a 13-8 record and the first round of Olympic League playoffs. Barros was a three-
year starter for North Kitsap, earning first-team all-league honors in each of those seasons. She has
also played for the Kitsap Angels Gold Select fastpitch summer team.
2001 University at Albany Softball Signings
Name Pos. Ht. High School/Hometown
Jenni Barros 2B 5-8 North Kitsap/Poulsbo, Wash.
Danielle Buyea P/OF 5-6 Monroe-Woodbury/Harriman, N.Y.
Megan Craft “ 1B 9-6 South Glens Falls/South Glens Falls, N.Y.
Andrea Smith# OF 9-9 — Flowing Wells/Tucson, Arizona
© “ Adirondack Community College transfer
# Eastern Arizona College transfer
-30-
