11/12/12 Albany,NY
President Ethan Grossman
VP Max Hillman
Tres Spencer Haas
Captains:
Herno Smith
Dan McNamara
Field Committee:
Tucker White
Jacob Behm
David Johnson
Wednesday, November 14, 2012
Saturday, November 3, 2012
Danes fall in Boston. NU 27. Albany 20
Boston.MA- Albany spotted Northeastern U a 20 point advantage in the first 30in of the game. NU used the kicking game to create many opportunities, albany would notch 2 before the half to close the gap to 10.
Albany's pack dominated the scrums an added 2 scores to tie it up at 20. A couple of mistakes got NU going with some mentum and they iced victory with a break off the weak side for a try and conversion
Albany's pack dominated the scrums an added 2 scores to tie it up at 20. A couple of mistakes got NU going with some mentum and they iced victory with a break off the weak side for a try and conversion
Monday, October 29, 2012
Danes hold off Southern CT 43-36
10/27/12
New Haven,CT- Albany was on the road for the second of three consecutive weeks to take on Southern CT State in an East Coast Rugby Conference contest. Albany started the scoring when Sean Kimmins scored as result of a quick tap penalty. Grant(2) and Gyimesi would add scores wrapped around three SCSU scores. Albany 24- SCSU 19 at the half.
SCSU would sandwich two tries around a Justin Barend's try to knot the score at 31. Albany stand off Russo would earn his stripes when he hit a gap in the SCSU defense to zig zag for a try and then 14 minutes later take a quick tap to seal the victory. SCSU last ditch effort would lead to an unconverted score as the final whistle blew, Albany 43 SCSU 36.
Albany wraps up the season with a trip to Boston to face Northeastern U. Saturday, 11/3/12. Albany's Anthony Russo is tied for third in ECRC try's scored with 6. Mandel is ranked 7th in total points with 38 followed by Russo with 30. Middlebury's Brian Sirkia leads all ECRC scoring with 79 points.
New Haven,CT- Albany was on the road for the second of three consecutive weeks to take on Southern CT State in an East Coast Rugby Conference contest. Albany started the scoring when Sean Kimmins scored as result of a quick tap penalty. Grant(2) and Gyimesi would add scores wrapped around three SCSU scores. Albany 24- SCSU 19 at the half.
SCSU would sandwich two tries around a Justin Barend's try to knot the score at 31. Albany stand off Russo would earn his stripes when he hit a gap in the SCSU defense to zig zag for a try and then 14 minutes later take a quick tap to seal the victory. SCSU last ditch effort would lead to an unconverted score as the final whistle blew, Albany 43 SCSU 36.
Albany wraps up the season with a trip to Boston to face Northeastern U. Saturday, 11/3/12. Albany's Anthony Russo is tied for third in ECRC try's scored with 6. Mandel is ranked 7th in total points with 38 followed by Russo with 30. Middlebury's Brian Sirkia leads all ECRC scoring with 79 points.
Saturday, October 20, 2012
Middlebury Romps Danes
10/20/12
Essex Junction,VT- Middlebury Rugby moves to 4-0 on the season after a dominating 91-7 win over UAlbany. The MCRC applied constant pressure for 80 minutes, scoring 13 tries from 10 different players. Alex Ruocco ’13 celebrated his first start with a hat trick, while Captain Brian Sirkia ’12.5 led the scoring with 31 total points (1 try, 2 penalties, 10 conversions.) Anthony Russo scored for the Danes with Joe Mandel slotting the conversion.
Albany travels to New Haven, CT Saturday to take on Southern Ct.
Essex Junction,VT- Middlebury Rugby moves to 4-0 on the season after a dominating 91-7 win over UAlbany. The MCRC applied constant pressure for 80 minutes, scoring 13 tries from 10 different players. Alex Ruocco ’13 celebrated his first start with a hat trick, while Captain Brian Sirkia ’12.5 led the scoring with 31 total points (1 try, 2 penalties, 10 conversions.) Anthony Russo scored for the Danes with Joe Mandel slotting the conversion.
Albany travels to New Haven, CT Saturday to take on Southern Ct.
Sunday, October 14, 2012
Danes Rally Falls Short, UMass 24-Albany 22
10/13/12
Albany,NY- They may sit up and look as though they are awake when they are actually asleep. That is the definition for sleepwalking and for first 20 minutes of Albany's ECRC game against UMass you might have thought you were at a clinical trial on the effects of sleepwalking. UMass danced, pounded and sped to 17 points. Albany's alarm finally went off at 1:25pm when #8 Gavin Gyimesi scored on a pick and go. Unfortunately for Albany someone hit the snooze button as UMass would score just three minutes later, UMass 24 Albany 7. At 1:34PM Albany finally put 2 feet on the floor when Sean Kimmins scored to bring Albany within 12 at the half, 24-12. UMass scores by Appel, O'Brien,and Nemeroff.
Albany would compete and hold UMass scoreless in the second half. Aisi, Russo and Mandel would each dot the line but none in the middle which left Mandel with three unsuccessful conversion attempts. A pivitol play came late just before the Mandel score Albany's forwards drove the ball in a driving maul some 30 meters for a try given and then disallowed by the referee. A possible penalty try could have been awarded and a conversion attempt under the posts. Albany would score off the following scrum down but it was tough luck and curtains for Albany.
Albany travels to Middlebury,VT to face undefeated Middlebury College. Albany playoff hopes are slim but if the table is run positive things can happen.
Albany,NY- They may sit up and look as though they are awake when they are actually asleep. That is the definition for sleepwalking and for first 20 minutes of Albany's ECRC game against UMass you might have thought you were at a clinical trial on the effects of sleepwalking. UMass danced, pounded and sped to 17 points. Albany's alarm finally went off at 1:25pm when #8 Gavin Gyimesi scored on a pick and go. Unfortunately for Albany someone hit the snooze button as UMass would score just three minutes later, UMass 24 Albany 7. At 1:34PM Albany finally put 2 feet on the floor when Sean Kimmins scored to bring Albany within 12 at the half, 24-12. UMass scores by Appel, O'Brien,and Nemeroff.
Albany would compete and hold UMass scoreless in the second half. Aisi, Russo and Mandel would each dot the line but none in the middle which left Mandel with three unsuccessful conversion attempts. A pivitol play came late just before the Mandel score Albany's forwards drove the ball in a driving maul some 30 meters for a try given and then disallowed by the referee. A possible penalty try could have been awarded and a conversion attempt under the posts. Albany would score off the following scrum down but it was tough luck and curtains for Albany.
Albany travels to Middlebury,VT to face undefeated Middlebury College. Albany playoff hopes are slim but if the table is run positive things can happen.
Friday, October 12, 2012
Danes face UMass on Homecoming
Albany,NY- The Albany Great Danes take on UMass Saturday in a pivotal East Coast Rugby Conference matchup. Albany is coming in on a two game win streak and sits a top of the conference standings with a 2-1-0 record. UMass is 1-2-0 but has suffered some tight losses against Middlebury College and Northeastern U and a win would put them right back in the hunt for an ECRC Championship.
Albany's scoring has been bolstered by fullback Joe Mandel being inserted in the first XV lineup. Mandel is 4th in the conference scoring race with 26 points off of seven conversions and 4 penalty kicks. Mandel did not see action in the first ECRC contest at AIC. "He has been a real threat and keeps the opposition on their toes knowing that any penalties against will lead to Albany points" stated Coach Durant.
Kickoff is 1:00pm. There will be a kickoff tailgate sponsored by th University at Alumni Association in the tents in front of the science library.
Go Danes!
Wednesday, October 10, 2012
Danes a bust at ECRC Sevens
10/6/12
Amesbury, MA-Albany traveled to the East Coast Rugby Conference Sevens for a shot at taking the ultimate prize of an automatic bid to USA Rugby's National 7s Tournament at Texas A&M University. But travel issues and a lack of urgency proved to be barriers the Danes could not overcome. The Danes went 1-2 in pool play losing to ; Middlebury,AIC and a victory over SoConn. The Danes looked to get back on track against BC in the playin round but could only muster up 19 points to the Eagles 27.
Anthony Russo led the Danes in scoring with 20 points off of 4 tries. Sean Kimmins added 15 off of 3 tries.
Northeastern U defeated Middlebury College to capture the crown. Albany has both teams to contend with in the next few weeks in 15 a side rugby.
Albany is home against UMass this Saturday at 1:00pm.
Amesbury, MA-Albany traveled to the East Coast Rugby Conference Sevens for a shot at taking the ultimate prize of an automatic bid to USA Rugby's National 7s Tournament at Texas A&M University. But travel issues and a lack of urgency proved to be barriers the Danes could not overcome. The Danes went 1-2 in pool play losing to ; Middlebury,AIC and a victory over SoConn. The Danes looked to get back on track against BC in the playin round but could only muster up 19 points to the Eagles 27.
Anthony Russo led the Danes in scoring with 20 points off of 4 tries. Sean Kimmins added 15 off of 3 tries.
Northeastern U defeated Middlebury College to capture the crown. Albany has both teams to contend with in the next few weeks in 15 a side rugby.
Albany is home against UMass this Saturday at 1:00pm.
Saturday, September 29, 2012
Danes Upend UConn 50-5
9-29/12
Albany, NY-The Danes came out pedal to the metal and never let up rolling up 50 points against the UConn Huskies in an East Coast Rugby Conference match up. Albany got on board first when #15 Joe Mandell slotted a penalty 2min into the first half. From that point on it was all Danes. Albany tries by Kimmins[2],Barends, Scofield, Russo,Nykawamba and Codero sealed the deal. Mandell converted 6 of 7 conversions and a penalty for 15 points total.
Albany takes a week off from 15s to prepare for the East Coast Rugby Conference Sevens to be held 10/6/12 in Amesbury,MA. The Danes were runner ups in 2011 and look to make a strong showing in 2012. The Danes have put in a lot of work by competeing last spring in Las Vegas and the Collegiatte Sevens Series.
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Albany, NY-The Danes came out pedal to the metal and never let up rolling up 50 points against the UConn Huskies in an East Coast Rugby Conference match up. Albany got on board first when #15 Joe Mandell slotted a penalty 2min into the first half. From that point on it was all Danes. Albany tries by Kimmins[2],Barends, Scofield, Russo,Nykawamba and Codero sealed the deal. Mandell converted 6 of 7 conversions and a penalty for 15 points total.
Albany takes a week off from 15s to prepare for the East Coast Rugby Conference Sevens to be held 10/6/12 in Amesbury,MA. The Danes were runner ups in 2011 and look to make a strong showing in 2012. The Danes have put in a lot of work by competeing last spring in Las Vegas and the Collegiatte Sevens Series.
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Saturday, September 22, 2012
Albany Staves Off BC Comeback Bid
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Albany rebounded from a close loss against AIC in the East Coast’s opening weekend of play to edge Boston College 29-22 Saturday. BC favored a pack-heavy attack, while Albany scored most of its tries on the perimeter. “They were able to pick and go a lot and set up a lot of good scores with some 10-man rugby,” said Albany coach John Durant of BC, “and our backs had a lot of good speed, so we were able to convert open field opportunities.” The Eagles didn’t help themselves with a penalty-laden first half highlighted by a red card to their starting blindside flanker near the five-minute mark, and Albany held a 17-8 halftime advantage. But BC bounced back in the second half and, in the last 10 minutes, had the chance to both take the lead and tie it with possession inside Albany’s 22, but knock-ons ended the threats. “Credit to Albany. They played a really good game, and they took advantage of some of the other penalties that we had,” said BC coach Jeff Monfett. “They took it to us in the first half, but we came back and we had our opportunities. We had our chances at the end of the game to win it, or at least tie it up, and it didn’t happen for us.” The result leaves both Albany and Boston College 1-1 in league play. |
Saturday, September 15, 2012
Yellow Jackets Sting Danes in Injury Time
The second half was a thriller with AIC’s Corey Newton’s try
and Nawrocki adding a conversion and penalty kick to go up 10. Albany would strike back with two unconverted
tries;Kimmins and Aisi. With less than a
minute to go on the game clock and the score knotted at 20s Albany mis-played
the kickoff AIC gained possession and did not relinquish it. One ruck, an Albany penalty and 9 rucks later
AIC’s Jamal Hadley would dot down his second of the day in injury time. A huge win for AIC, their first in D1-AA, and
a crushing loss for Albany who were a conversion and stop away from victory.
Photo courtesy of Chase Stoffle
Photo courtesy of Chase Stoffle
Monday, September 10, 2012
Danes roll in final preseason game
9/8/12
Albany, NY- The Danes traveled to Albany's south end for a preseason game vs NERFU D2 Club
Albany Knickerbocker RFC "B". Making the best out of a late schedule change for both clubs the Danes used their pace in the back line to roll up the points. Aisi, Grant, Optis and Russo all dotted the line as well as #8 Newell.
The Danes travel to Springfield, MA to face #25 AIC in the East Coast Rugby Conference opener Friday night. AIC is coming off a big preseason win at Yale while Albany has split results vs college competition by beating Syracuse U and losing on the road at Brown U.
Albany, NY- The Danes traveled to Albany's south end for a preseason game vs NERFU D2 Club
Albany Knickerbocker RFC "B". Making the best out of a late schedule change for both clubs the Danes used their pace in the back line to roll up the points. Aisi, Grant, Optis and Russo all dotted the line as well as #8 Newell.
The Danes travel to Springfield, MA to face #25 AIC in the East Coast Rugby Conference opener Friday night. AIC is coming off a big preseason win at Yale while Albany has split results vs college competition by beating Syracuse U and losing on the road at Brown U.
Tuesday, September 4, 2012
Danes Train with Albany Knickerbocker RFC
Albany, NY - UAlbany participated in a joint practice with the Albany Knickerbocker Rugby Club this evening. 21 UA players took part in drills for 45 minutes and then scrimmaged the Knicks. UA faired quite well in the scrimmage. UA was able to create space in the backline which the Knicks defense had trouble containing. The Knicks larger, more experienced pack worked the fringes for some s, uccessful possessions. All in all a good day for the UA who had the opportunity to face a side who runs things at a quicker pace. Hopefully this will improve UA's game.
Many thanks to the Knick's players and staff for this opportunity. Nice to see Albany Alumni playing with Knicks; Cono Cirone, Philip Ayoreh and Ryan Sweet.
Many thanks to the Knick's players and staff for this opportunity. Nice to see Albany Alumni playing with Knicks; Cono Cirone, Philip Ayoreh and Ryan Sweet.
RPI Scrimmage
9/3/12
Rensselaer,NY- The Danes traveled to Capital District rival RPI for a scrimmage which ended in a 15-15 draw. The first XV came out with a vengeance and was able to control the pace of the game. Albany got scores from McNamara, Tumbasolan and Barends to take a 15-5 lead into the final 10 minutes. Albany's Third's took over from there and did not fare well giving up two scores. Albany's coach Durant stated "We got to work on some things with our top 25 pool in which we did some good and not so good things. The Third's were overmatched but the most important thing for them is to get actual game time."
Albany's preseason efforts continue tonight with a joint practice/ scrimmage with the Albany Knicks RFC.
Rensselaer,NY- The Danes traveled to Capital District rival RPI for a scrimmage which ended in a 15-15 draw. The first XV came out with a vengeance and was able to control the pace of the game. Albany got scores from McNamara, Tumbasolan and Barends to take a 15-5 lead into the final 10 minutes. Albany's Third's took over from there and did not fare well giving up two scores. Albany's coach Durant stated "We got to work on some things with our top 25 pool in which we did some good and not so good things. The Third's were overmatched but the most important thing for them is to get actual game time."
Albany's preseason efforts continue tonight with a joint practice/ scrimmage with the Albany Knicks RFC.
Saturday, September 1, 2012
Brown Beats Danes, 29-19
9/1/12
Providence, RI- Albany traveled to Providnece,RI to face Brown University in a non league contest. Albany would weather a potent Brown attack for most of the first half but Brown's pressure offense would score 3 tries sandwiched around one Albany try biy #8 Adrian Newell. Fly half Anthony Russo would clear the line some 10 minutes later but was unable to down the ball as it was knocked forward in his attempt.
Albany picked up the intensity in the second half starting with a score by Mike Optis. Optis beat the Brown defense after taking spin ball and racing to the corner. McNamara would convert the try.
Albany travels to RPI Monday evening for a contest against Capital District rival RPI. Tuesday features a joint practice and scrimmage with the Albany Knickerbocker Rugby Club.
Friday, August 31, 2012
Club Sports Field Update
Albany,NY-Work continues on the new Club Sports field at UAlbany. Moving dirt, falling trees and grading. This will be the future home of UAlbany Rugby.
Tuesday, August 28, 2012
Danes rip it up at 6:00AM
Albany,NY-35 rugby players went through handling drills and conditioning today at 6:00AM. Albany is gearing up to face Brown U this Saturday in Providence, RI. Brown took it to UA last year and Albany is looking for a much better showing this year.
"No excuse" practices, like today, are team building affairs where some sort of sacrifice is needed to prove to yourself and your teammates that you will do what it takes to be successful " stated coach Durant. For young guys to travel uptown this early is tough but they chose this over a 6:00PM alternative.
This proves that they are putting in the needed preparation to be successful.
"No excuse" practices, like today, are team building affairs where some sort of sacrifice is needed to prove to yourself and your teammates that you will do what it takes to be successful " stated coach Durant. For young guys to travel uptown this early is tough but they chose this over a 6:00PM alternative.
This proves that they are putting in the needed preparation to be successful.
Sunday, August 26, 2012
Danes take Saratoga crown
Saratoga Springs, NY- The University at Albany ran through the Barbarians and Syracuse University to face Albany Law in the championship. Law made it past the Purple Haze and Berkshire on a very hot day. The championship game was a see saw event where the the Danes took control at the very end of the first half when Aisi's drop kick restart found Albany's Russo in full stride for the score. Law could not recover and the Dane's fitness would power them through.
Danes travel to Providence, RI to face Brown University. Albany's East Coast Rugby Conference opener is 9/14/12 at American International College.
Danes travel to Providence, RI to face Brown University. Albany's East Coast Rugby Conference opener is 9/14/12 at American International College.
Thursday, August 23, 2012
2012 Co-Captains lead Danes
2012 Co-Captains Dylan Gandy (left) and Adrian Newell lead Danes through thursdays second session. Preparation is key to success as the Dane's look to improve on their fourth place finish in the East Coast Rugby Conference.
Gandy and Newell are both seniors looking to go out on top. Both feel this year the Danes have the making of a real solid squad which can contend for a championship.
Gandy and Newell are both seniors looking to go out on top. Both feel this year the Danes have the making of a real solid squad which can contend for a championship.
UAlbany opens pre-season camp
Albany,NY-the University at Albany Men's Rugby opened the 2012 season this morning at 8:00AM for the first of two sessions. 35 players muscled through boot camp like conditioning and sprint work.
Albany opens up with a pre-season tournament Saturday, 8/25/12 in Saratoga Springs.
Albany opens up with a pre-season tournament Saturday, 8/25/12 in Saratoga Springs.
Wednesday, August 22, 2012
Construction begins on new club sport field
Albany, NY- Construction has begun on UAlbany's new club sports field. The field is located behind State Quad and was formally the home of intramural softball and club baseball. The new field will serve as the home pitch for UAlbany Rugby as well as other club sports. Anticipated completion of the project is for October 212. UAlbany rugby will play home games on the former field hockey grass pitch until construction is completed.
Wednesday, April 25, 2012
UAlbany 7s Places 2nd in Universal Sports Collegiate 7s Series
Boston, MA- Albany's 4the place finish in the Boston 7s propelled them into 2nd place overall in the Universal Sports Collegiate 7s Series. Albany ended up with 20 points, 14 points behind AIC and ahead of UNH-20 [tied - in front due to point differential and tries scored in all 3 events and UConn - 16.
Univerals Sports and Series Commissioner, Justin Goonan - Universal Sports extends a huge congratulations to all of the teams that competed in the Boston RFC Collegiate 7's Tournment this past weekend and, while we'd like to give a special mention to those that completed all three Circuit events, we're sincerely thankful for each team's contributions toward advancing collegiate rugby sevens across the northeast.
As this was the first event of its kind within the region, we really can't stress enough that it would not have been possible without the generous sponsorship of Rugby Ink, who provided not only training balls for the Circuit teams and match balls for each tournament, but is also in the process of customizing a special set of sevens jerseys for the winning team.
Likewise, our gracious hosts University of New Hampshire, University of Albany and Boston RFC have earned our gratitude for both their hospitality and leadership in fostoring further development of rugby sevens in New England. Finally, we'd like to thank each of the individual players and coaches who made it a priority to become a part of the inaugural Rugby Ink Collegiate 7's Circuit.
Albany players will now gear up for the Summer 7s circuit which they will train with clubs close to their home towns and come together as a team for select events in preparation for the goal of winning the USA Rugby automatic national tournament qualifier at the 2012 East Coast Rugby Conference 7's Columbus Day weekend.
Univerals Sports and Series Commissioner, Justin Goonan - Universal Sports extends a huge congratulations to all of the teams that competed in the Boston RFC Collegiate 7's Tournment this past weekend and, while we'd like to give a special mention to those that completed all three Circuit events, we're sincerely thankful for each team's contributions toward advancing collegiate rugby sevens across the northeast.
As this was the first event of its kind within the region, we really can't stress enough that it would not have been possible without the generous sponsorship of Rugby Ink, who provided not only training balls for the Circuit teams and match balls for each tournament, but is also in the process of customizing a special set of sevens jerseys for the winning team.
Likewise, our gracious hosts University of New Hampshire, University of Albany and Boston RFC have earned our gratitude for both their hospitality and leadership in fostoring further development of rugby sevens in New England. Finally, we'd like to thank each of the individual players and coaches who made it a priority to become a part of the inaugural Rugby Ink Collegiate 7's Circuit.
Albany players will now gear up for the Summer 7s circuit which they will train with clubs close to their home towns and come together as a team for select events in preparation for the goal of winning the USA Rugby automatic national tournament qualifier at the 2012 East Coast Rugby Conference 7's Columbus Day weekend.
Danes finish 4th at Boston 7s
Boston, MA.- The Danes traveld to Boston for the third and final round of the Universal Sports Collegiate 7s series. Albany , looking to make big noise in this tournament, romped UNH -B 50-0. Firing on all cylanders Albany took care of ECRC rival UConn, 34-7 nad then had an extra lay over when Dartmouth B did not come out for 2:40pm kick off. Albany was awarded the win with a forfeit. The long layover proved to be Albany's undoing with a rematch with UConn. UConn controlled the tempo and came out hard and fast in this semi final match. UConn posted 28 to Albany's 12 to move into the finals and sending Albany packing.
AIC would eventually defeat UConn in the finals, 33-0 to take the cup.
Danes go 1-3 at SUNY Championship Tournament
Latham, NY - Albany, hosting the 2012 SUNY Championship Tournament, won 1 out of their 4 games played. Albany playing with a split squad due to their entry in the Boston 7s, defeated a light Stony Brook team 25 - 14. Albany's pack controlled the tempo and created some space for the back's to exploint. UBuffalo 15 - Albany 5 a game in which they could not muster up the enthusiasm of the first contest and played flat. It would get worse when eventual tournament champion, Binghamton, rolled to a 67-0 stomping. Albany would bounce back with a strong effort against 2nd place Brockport but did not have enough with a 25-15 loss.
Albany's efforts of putting out a split team will look to pay dividends in the fall with underclassmen getting some valualble first XV experience.
Albany's efforts of putting out a split team will look to pay dividends in the fall with underclassmen getting some valualble first XV experience.
Thursday, April 19, 2012
Vassar Thumps Albany 68-14
Courtesy of Vassar Rugby:
By Tony Brown, Head Coach
4/19/2012
POUGHKEEPSIE, NY (April 18, 2012) -- The final game of the season for the Vassar College men's rugby team was played under cloudy skies with warm temperatures at the Farm and the conditions were ideal for running rugby. The Vassar team needed no other invitation and they bid farewell to their seniors in style, running in 10 tries to demolish a speedy and athletic University of Albany team. Senior Brett Anker set a new single season record for total points scored as he landed 9 conversions to go with two tries and a total of 28 points. Vassar College Men 68 v 14 University of Albany
MenTries: Andrew Jdaydani (3), Joe Karpman (1), Adam Steel (2), Brett Anker (2), Andrew Moore (1), & Hal Moore (1).Cons: Brett Anker (9).Next: Saturday April 28, 2012 versus Vassar Alumni a.k.a. "Big Pink", at Vassar kick-off 12:30 p.m.
Captain James Purtle led the Brewers on to the field in this the final game of the spring season with his thigh heavily strapped. He knew that he was on borrowed time given he was injured just 3 days earlier. Yet in those opening 10 minutes he ran hard, tackled harder, and led from the front as he has always done. When he limped off with the score at 7-7, one had the feeling that the Vassar team would play their hearts out to earn a win.Previous games against Albany have been close affairs. Last year Vassar edged it 14-5 and the year before Albany won 27-17 while in 2008 Vassar was victorious 18-10. But the 2012 contest was a real drubbing for the Albany team. Yet the opening 15 minutes they showed that they had pace and made some good line breaks. Their fullback Sean Kimmins is a flyer and their flyhalf Ryan Grant looked dangerous. Up front they had good size and in the first couple of scrums they attacked the Vassar eight and shoved them back. They certainly didn't do their cause any good when they had players yellow carded, one in each half, and they had to play with 14 men.
So after 25 minutes when Vassar led 17-14 it seemed that this might be yet another one or two score game.Albany looked most dangerous when the field was broken up after a turnover. Their athletic speedsters beat first time tacklers and found space. But too often a poor pass was thrown or the Vassar defense scrambled back and recovered. Vassar's first try was scored by Andrew Jdaydani as he cut back against the defensive flow following a tapped penalty just 15 yards out. The number 8 come inside center is unorthodox to say the least. Brett Anker, who had moved from left wing to take over flyhalf when Purtle left the field, slotted the conversion and it was to prove the first of many successful kicks as he connected on a further 8 in all. Albany responded well and a missed tackle in the centers allowed them to get through and around the Vassar defense to even matters up at 7-7. The next score was an opportunist try from Joe Karpman the Vassar loosehead. He gathered a ball at the base of a ruck and went don the blindside and in his usual no nonsense manner just ran over the defense. Anker missed the conversion and it was 12-7.
In fact the Vassar forwards were playing very well in the loose and one could have thrown a blanket over the whole 8 most of the time as they won ample ball and established their pattern of play. The lineouts were going well since Albany chose not to contest in the air so it was a case of "Zero Gravity Kenney" and "Air Ruginski". Ruginski also managed a couple of steals on the Albany throw. The scrums were rock solid apart from the first two and Albany's situation didn't get any easier when early in the second half Barrington Archer came on to replace Dann Flynn. The big lad had a couple of storming runs and tried to put a whole year of frustration into his last 25 minutes of collegiate rugby!Much of the credit for the Vassar forwards performance is due to two people in particular. Mark Griffiths coaches in the fall and gets the lads thoroughly organized and it is a great pity he is not here in the spring to see them firing on all cylinders. Vassar captain Tyler Blake is the man who drives the engine that Mark creates and he is as skilled an operator as there is on a rugby field. Blake does it all and is seldom noticed given that he is in there among the big bodies. He tackles, scrummages, calls the lineouts, and gets everyone in the right place so he's the ultimate multi-tasker!
So with Vassar assured ball from lineouts and scrums they were able to launch their attacks. Anker kept getting them over the gain line if the ball went to the backs and the forwards were loving the close quarters running off the fringes and making good inroads. In contrast Albany were static at the rucks and when they picked they went maybe a yard or two. Vassar's tackling around the fringes was excellent.
The Vassar backs sliced and diced as the game progressed and it was a joy to see Hayden Moon running with such confidence. He may not have scored on this day but he helped raise the temperature every time he got the ball. Adam Steel played a cracking game. Although he did put in 3 kicks counter to instruction! One led directly to a try and the others were not half bad either. He just had to sign off reminding us that he has that skill! Steel also picked up 2 tries for all his hard work and the D.C. area will be lucky to have him and his halfback partner in the fall there. Another senior Hal Moore scored a try that he will long remember and he tackled well throughout.Every player looks good when the team is on-song like this evening and the younger players too had moments. Freshmen Andrew Moore and Elliot Baker played with verve and skill that belies their years. Moore scored a try following a charge down and Baker was a star on defense.So the 2011-12 collegiate season ends and the Brewers finish 10-2-1, with a 6-2 Fall record and 4-0-1 Spring record. Not too shabby.
By Tony Brown, Head Coach
4/19/2012
POUGHKEEPSIE, NY (April 18, 2012) -- The final game of the season for the Vassar College men's rugby team was played under cloudy skies with warm temperatures at the Farm and the conditions were ideal for running rugby. The Vassar team needed no other invitation and they bid farewell to their seniors in style, running in 10 tries to demolish a speedy and athletic University of Albany team. Senior Brett Anker set a new single season record for total points scored as he landed 9 conversions to go with two tries and a total of 28 points. Vassar College Men 68 v 14 University of Albany
MenTries: Andrew Jdaydani (3), Joe Karpman (1), Adam Steel (2), Brett Anker (2), Andrew Moore (1), & Hal Moore (1).Cons: Brett Anker (9).Next: Saturday April 28, 2012 versus Vassar Alumni a.k.a. "Big Pink", at Vassar kick-off 12:30 p.m.
Captain James Purtle led the Brewers on to the field in this the final game of the spring season with his thigh heavily strapped. He knew that he was on borrowed time given he was injured just 3 days earlier. Yet in those opening 10 minutes he ran hard, tackled harder, and led from the front as he has always done. When he limped off with the score at 7-7, one had the feeling that the Vassar team would play their hearts out to earn a win.Previous games against Albany have been close affairs. Last year Vassar edged it 14-5 and the year before Albany won 27-17 while in 2008 Vassar was victorious 18-10. But the 2012 contest was a real drubbing for the Albany team. Yet the opening 15 minutes they showed that they had pace and made some good line breaks. Their fullback Sean Kimmins is a flyer and their flyhalf Ryan Grant looked dangerous. Up front they had good size and in the first couple of scrums they attacked the Vassar eight and shoved them back. They certainly didn't do their cause any good when they had players yellow carded, one in each half, and they had to play with 14 men.
So after 25 minutes when Vassar led 17-14 it seemed that this might be yet another one or two score game.Albany looked most dangerous when the field was broken up after a turnover. Their athletic speedsters beat first time tacklers and found space. But too often a poor pass was thrown or the Vassar defense scrambled back and recovered. Vassar's first try was scored by Andrew Jdaydani as he cut back against the defensive flow following a tapped penalty just 15 yards out. The number 8 come inside center is unorthodox to say the least. Brett Anker, who had moved from left wing to take over flyhalf when Purtle left the field, slotted the conversion and it was to prove the first of many successful kicks as he connected on a further 8 in all. Albany responded well and a missed tackle in the centers allowed them to get through and around the Vassar defense to even matters up at 7-7. The next score was an opportunist try from Joe Karpman the Vassar loosehead. He gathered a ball at the base of a ruck and went don the blindside and in his usual no nonsense manner just ran over the defense. Anker missed the conversion and it was 12-7.
In fact the Vassar forwards were playing very well in the loose and one could have thrown a blanket over the whole 8 most of the time as they won ample ball and established their pattern of play. The lineouts were going well since Albany chose not to contest in the air so it was a case of "Zero Gravity Kenney" and "Air Ruginski". Ruginski also managed a couple of steals on the Albany throw. The scrums were rock solid apart from the first two and Albany's situation didn't get any easier when early in the second half Barrington Archer came on to replace Dann Flynn. The big lad had a couple of storming runs and tried to put a whole year of frustration into his last 25 minutes of collegiate rugby!Much of the credit for the Vassar forwards performance is due to two people in particular. Mark Griffiths coaches in the fall and gets the lads thoroughly organized and it is a great pity he is not here in the spring to see them firing on all cylinders. Vassar captain Tyler Blake is the man who drives the engine that Mark creates and he is as skilled an operator as there is on a rugby field. Blake does it all and is seldom noticed given that he is in there among the big bodies. He tackles, scrummages, calls the lineouts, and gets everyone in the right place so he's the ultimate multi-tasker!
So with Vassar assured ball from lineouts and scrums they were able to launch their attacks. Anker kept getting them over the gain line if the ball went to the backs and the forwards were loving the close quarters running off the fringes and making good inroads. In contrast Albany were static at the rucks and when they picked they went maybe a yard or two. Vassar's tackling around the fringes was excellent.
The Vassar backs sliced and diced as the game progressed and it was a joy to see Hayden Moon running with such confidence. He may not have scored on this day but he helped raise the temperature every time he got the ball. Adam Steel played a cracking game. Although he did put in 3 kicks counter to instruction! One led directly to a try and the others were not half bad either. He just had to sign off reminding us that he has that skill! Steel also picked up 2 tries for all his hard work and the D.C. area will be lucky to have him and his halfback partner in the fall there. Another senior Hal Moore scored a try that he will long remember and he tackled well throughout.Every player looks good when the team is on-song like this evening and the younger players too had moments. Freshmen Andrew Moore and Elliot Baker played with verve and skill that belies their years. Moore scored a try following a charge down and Baker was a star on defense.So the 2011-12 collegiate season ends and the Brewers finish 10-2-1, with a 6-2 Fall record and 4-0-1 Spring record. Not too shabby.
Tuesday, April 17, 2012
XVs Lose to Albany Knickerbocker RFC B's
The Albany Knicks B side took the field against a spirited UAlbany team. Knicks wing Sean Mertz put down a marker as to why he should be on the starting 15, and with that fire, could not be denied as he crossed the try line 4 times; for his effort he was awarded Man of the Match. Additional tries came from inside center Rev Protain and eightman Joe Judge.
UAlbany scores by #8 Adrian Newell and Sean Keenan fueled UA's attack. With UA 7's playing in the Capital Cup 7s Tournament this enabled the XV's to get a game against high quality competition.
Albany Knicks 38
UAlbany 10
Albany travels to Vassar College for a Wednesday [4/18/12] afternoon match.
UAlbany scores by #8 Adrian Newell and Sean Keenan fueled UA's attack. With UA 7's playing in the Capital Cup 7s Tournament this enabled the XV's to get a game against high quality competition.
Albany Knicks 38
UAlbany 10
Albany travels to Vassar College for a Wednesday [4/18/12] afternoon match.
Monday, April 16, 2012
Albany Places 3rd in Capital Cup 7s
Latham, NY – American International College defeated Boston College 26 – 24 to take 1st place at the Capital Cup Collegiate 7s Tournament held in Latham, NY and hosted by University at Albany Rugby. The Capital Cup is the 2nd leg in the Universal Sports Colegiatte 7s Circuit with the 1st Stop at the UNH 7s and concluding on 4/21 in Boston, MA.
Albany went 3-2 in pool play with wins over; AIC 2[38 -10], UConn [48-14] + UNH [22-14] and lost to Boston College [ 17-14] and tournament champion AIC 1 [21-20]. Albany loss to AIC proved to be a killer where Albany scored 4 tries to AIC 3 but failed to convert any conversions to AIC's three. The difference between playing in the championship round and 3/4 place game.
Albany would take on UNH in the 3rd/4th place game after beating them in pool play, 22-14. Once again Albany got the best of UNH, 26-19. Albany led the tournament in points for 168 and 29 tries. Ryan Grant led all scorers with 6 tries.
Circuit Standings going into Boston, the 3rd and final stop, on the Collegiate 7's Circuit are as follows: 1. AIC-A 22pts2. UNH-A 14pts3. Albany 12pts4. UConn 6pts. It will be tough for Albany to gain enough ground on AIC to overtake them but the competition in Boston will be stiff with Dartmouth, Harvard, Northeastern U entering sides. Dartmount is the reigning CRC 7s Champion and will have multiple sides entered in the tournament.
Albany went 3-2 in pool play with wins over; AIC 2[38 -10], UConn [48-14] + UNH [22-14] and lost to Boston College [ 17-14] and tournament champion AIC 1 [21-20]. Albany loss to AIC proved to be a killer where Albany scored 4 tries to AIC 3 but failed to convert any conversions to AIC's three. The difference between playing in the championship round and 3/4 place game.
Albany would take on UNH in the 3rd/4th place game after beating them in pool play, 22-14. Once again Albany got the best of UNH, 26-19. Albany led the tournament in points for 168 and 29 tries. Ryan Grant led all scorers with 6 tries.
Circuit Standings going into Boston, the 3rd and final stop, on the Collegiate 7's Circuit are as follows: 1. AIC-A 22pts2. UNH-A 14pts3. Albany 12pts4. UConn 6pts. It will be tough for Albany to gain enough ground on AIC to overtake them but the competition in Boston will be stiff with Dartmouth, Harvard, Northeastern U entering sides. Dartmount is the reigning CRC 7s Champion and will have multiple sides entered in the tournament.
Wednesday, April 4, 2012
Danes take 2 early season games
Albany, NY - Taking advantage of the unseasonably warm spring the Danes were able to schedule 2 early games taking on Capital District rival RPI and Syracuse U. RPI was added to the schedule on 3/24 when they had a team cancel out on them. Albany would use the opportunity to work on some of the fundamentals of the previous weeks practice. Albany forced the ball wide to the wings stringing on RPI defense and then recycling and doing the same again. This tired RPI and mistakes in the defensive formation allowed Albany to put up 35 points.
Albany and SU both playing a split side game [SU first XV at Cherry Blossom Tournament and Albany's 7s squad an UNH Tournament] Albany used its experience and depth to wear down SU's fiesty side. Albany's key was being able to penetrate SU up the middle and then spinning the ball wide to score, Albany 42 SU 12.
Albany travels to Bentley University for 6:00PM Friday Night Lights. Bentley is a USA Rugby D2 tournament qualifier.
Wednesday, March 28, 2012
Danes Top Rival RPI in Scrimmage
Albany, NY- 3/24/12 The Danes took took the field in an early season scrimmage against RPI. The Danes focused on 2 areas that they have been working diligintly on during practice, ball retention in contact and stretching the field by getting the ball wide to the wingers. They proved to be very successful at ball retention winning 90% or their offensive movements. Wide ball was also accomplished against a pretty good RPI rush defense. Both these combinations would lead to two Albany scores to to one RPI tally, Albany 12-RPI 5.
Coach Durant statedd "The coaching staff was pleased that we were able to accomplish what we set out to do today. RPI is a big, physical side that counter rucks well and for the most part we were able to create multiple phases and produce good ball for our backs to work with. The backs handled well but need work on depth and pace"
Albany XVs host Syracuse U 2nd side as Albany 7s is on the road to U. New Hampshire for the first round of the Universal Collegiatte 7s Circuit.
Coach Durant statedd "The coaching staff was pleased that we were able to accomplish what we set out to do today. RPI is a big, physical side that counter rucks well and for the most part we were able to create multiple phases and produce good ball for our backs to work with. The backs handled well but need work on depth and pace"
Albany XVs host Syracuse U 2nd side as Albany 7s is on the road to U. New Hampshire for the first round of the Universal Collegiatte 7s Circuit.
UAlbany Staff and Players volunteer at 2 Clinics in March
UAlbany Rugby Staff and Players volunteered at the Player Development Camp [3/16+17] and USA Rugby Coaching Development Clinic [3/24+25]. The camp had 60+ boys and girls attend the 2 day camp. Lead Instructors for the camp were Luke Gross & Melanie Denham
Luke Gross is the forwards coach for the men U20s, the Men Collegiate All Americans and the USA Women's Eagles. Luke brings the experience of 12 years of professional rugby, playing in the United Kingdom and Italy. He has played for the USA National team 62 times as a second row. He played in the 1999, 2003 and 2007 World Cups. Luke is currently the High Performance Manager and Specialist Coach for USA Rugby.
Melanie Denham resides in Massachusetts and played in the 2010 World Cup and is a current WNT player at #6, 7 or 8. She is the Forwards Coach for Radcliffe Women's Rugby and plays club rugby for Beantown Rugby.
UAlbany coaches John Durant and Dave Farison assisted.
UAlbany players took the field at USA CDP clinic held for two days on the UAlbany campus. Players ran drills for coaches working on getting their USA Coaching certificate in Introducing Rugby.
Monday, February 13, 2012
Vegas 7s
The Danes traveled to Nevada for the Las Vegas Invitational 7s Rugby Tournament. Albany's first attempt to compete on a national stage. Albany found out that the learning curve is steep but can be worth the effort now that they have learned what it takes to succeed. Albany would suffer loses to University of Georgia, Cal Poly, Stanford and Longwood before defeating Southern Illinois in the final contest. Game scores and game recaps will be posted in the future.
Monday, February 6, 2012
Danes face Georgia Bulldogs Thursday in LVI opening round
UAlbany Rugby Roster set for LVI 7s vs Georgia Bulldogs:
Dylan Gandy
Ethan Grossman
Shane Jacobi
Andrew Moth
Dan McNamarra
Adrian Newell
Spencer Pesce
Anthony Russo
Chase Stoffle
Dylan Tumbasolan
Clayton White
Ryan Grant
Stay tuned for photos, video and score updates on this site.
Friday, January 20, 2012
UAlbany 7s Going to Vegas Tournament
UAlbany 7s will be traveling to the prestegious Las Vegas 7s Invitational Rugby Tournament February 9-12th. Albany is building on their runner up finish in the East Coast Rugby Conference Tournament and a Plate finalist at the Empire 7s Tournament.The Danes will face the Southeast Conference's Georgia and perenial power Cal Poly on Thursday. Friday the Albany will face Stanford University and then advance to pool play. Coach Durant "This is a great opportunity for our players. We have made great progress in the olympic version of the sport and this increased competition can only make us better." Albany will start getting after it with 7:00am practices to prepare for the tournament in which stamina and fitness are keys to success,
Stay tuned to the Insider for player interviews, tournament highlights and team news.
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