Albany, N.Y. - More than 450 University at Albany student-athletes attended the athletic department's annual Welcome Back event, held at SEFCU Arena on Monday, Aug. 30. Vice President and Director of Athletics Lee McElroy reviewed the school's athletic mission for the 2010-11 academic year and introduced the head coaches and administrative staff. UAlbany President George M. Philip also spoke to the group about being student ambassadors.
     "This is an event where we get to lay out our plans for the upcoming year and articulate the department's mission, values and priorities," said McElroy, who begins his 11th year as UAlbany's athletic director. "It is important that the student-athletes get to meet all of us in person. We want them to understand the importance of academics, athletic competition and community responsibility."
     UAlbany sponsors 19 Division I athletic programs, including eight for men and 11 for women. The school also has spirit groups, such as cheerleaders and dancers, who support teach team.  The Great Danes compete in the America East Conference as a full member, and have associate member status in the Northeast Conference for football and Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference for women's golf. UAlbany has won 41 conference championships and three IC4A track and field titles, plus sent 15 teams to NCAA post-season competition during its Division I history.
     "This is a good event for student-athletes, especially freshmen," said Billy Allen, a junior from Hamilton, Ohio and a member of the men's basketball team. "You get a chance to place names with faces and meet all the administrators and coaches. It's also nice to have dinner with the other athletes."
     UAlbany athletics can be followed through several social media platforms during the year. You can keep up on the Great Danes through www.ualbanysports.com, facebook (www.facebook.com/ualbanysports), twitter (www.twitter.com/ualbanysports) and the Albany Sportsline, at 518-442-DANE (3263).