Siena Saints

Siena Saints. The athletic program representing Siena College in Loudonville, New York, competing at the NCAA Division I level primarily within the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference (MAAC). Known for a passionate fan base and a strong tradition in men's basketball, the Saints have made multiple appearances in the NCAA Division I men's basketball tournament, achieving notable upsets. The program fields teams in 18 varsity sports, fostering student-athlete development within the framework of the college's Franciscan mission.

History

The institution's athletic history is deeply intertwined with the growth of Siena College itself, founded by the Order of Friars Minor. Varsity competition began in the early 20th century, with the school initially participating in the NCAA's College Division before the formal adoption of the "Saints" nickname. A pivotal moment occurred with the hiring of coach Bill Kirsch for the men's basketball program, which began to elevate the school's regional profile. The move to the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference in 1989 marked a significant step, aligning the program with peer institutions in the Northeastern United States and providing a stable conference home. Key administrative figures, including longtime athletic director John D'Argenio, have guided the program through facility expansions and increased competitive expectations across all sports.

Athletic programs

The department sponsors nine men's and nine women's varsity teams. The flagship men's basketball program competes in the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference and has secured several MAAC Men's Basketball Tournament championships, earning automatic bids to the NCAA Division I men's basketball tournament. The women's basketball team has also contended for MAAC women's basketball tournament titles and participated in the Women's National Invitation Tournament. Other men's sports include baseball, cross country, golf, lacrosse, soccer, tennis, and track and field. Women's programs feature cross country, golf, lacrosse, soccer, softball, swimming, tennis, track and field, and volleyball. Several teams, including men's lacrosse, have competed in the MAAC Men's Lacrosse Tournament with bids to the NCAA Division I Men's Lacrosse Championship.

Notable athletes and coaches

The basketball program has produced several professionals, including Marc Brown, the program's all-time leading scorer who later played for the San Antonio Spurs and in the Continental Basketball Association. Kenny Hasbrouck, a key player on the 2009 tournament team, earned MAAC Men's Basketball Player of the Year honors. Coach Fran McCaffery led the Saints to three NCAA Division I men's basketball tournament appearances, including a memorable first-round victory over Ohio State in 2009, before departing for the University of Iowa. Baseball alumnus John Lannan pitched for the Washington Nationals and New York Mets, while Jamie Sweeney gained recognition in women's basketball. Legendary broadcaster Tommy Heinsohn, though more famous for his career with the Boston Celtics, has strong ties to the Capital District.

Facilities

The Times Union Center in downtown Albany, New York, serves as the primary home for men's basketball and major events, creating a formidable atmosphere for visiting teams. On campus, the Alumni Recreation Center (ARC) hosts volleyball, and the renovated Siena Turf Field is home to lacrosse and soccer. Baseball plays at Connors Park, while softball competes at the Siena Softball Field. Training and administrative functions are centered at the Marcelle Athletic Complex, which supports all student-athletes. These venues have hosted various Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference championship events over the years.

Rivalries

The most prominent and historic rivalry is with the Fairfield Stags, with intense competition spanning decades in men's basketball within the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference. Games against the Marist Red Foxes also generate significant contention, particularly in basketball and baseball. The annual "Battle of the Bridge" football game against cross-town foe University at Albany was a cherished tradition before the program was discontinued. Contests with the Iona Gaels, especially during the tenure of coach Fran McCaffery, often carried major implications for the MAAC Men's Basketball Tournament seeding and have produced memorable postseason clashes.

Championships and achievements

The athletic department's most celebrated achievements are its five MAAC tournament championships in men's basketball (1989, 1999, 2002, 2008, 2009), each resulting in an NCAA Division I men's basketball tournament berth. The 2009 victory over the Ohio State Buckeyes stands as the program's first NCAA tournament win. The baseball team has won multiple MAAC Baseball Tournament titles, advancing to the NCAA Division I baseball tournament. Individual athletes have earned numerous MAAC Player of the Year, Rookie of the Year, and All-Conference honors across various sports. The program also consistently earns recognition through the MAAC's academic honor roll for student-athlete success. Category:Siena Saints Category:NCAA Division I athletic programs