Jan. 11, 2012

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LOUDONVILLE, N.Y. - Players and coaches from the Siena men's and women's basketball teams visited five area schools Wednesday as part of the Saints in the Community "Adopt-A-School" Program. Members from both teams preached the importance of hard work and strong academics while also interacting with students through games and basketball drills.

The Saints visited McNulty Academy Elementary in Amsterdam, St. Mary's Academy in Hoosick Falls and Forts Ferry in Latham. In Albany, the Saints went to Brighter Choice School for Boys and Philip Schuyler Achievement Academy.

At each school the teams addressed the students about what it takes to not only be a Division I athlete, but how to succeed in whatever you wish to pursue. Hard work, academic achievement, good sportsmanship and effective time management were amongst the topics.

Additionally, the Saints interacted with the students by playing games and participating in basketball drills, showing off some of their skills while teaching valuable basketball lessons to the youngsters. At the conclusion of the day, the Saints took time to sign autographs and present the students with some special Siena Saints memorabilia.

As part of the Adopt-A-School program, more than 1,500 local schoolchildren attended the Second Annual Blue Shield of Northeastern New York "Kid's Day" game when the women's basketball team hosted UMass on Dec. 21. Additionally, a large number of students are expected to attend the men's basketball GE "Kid's in Free" day when the Saints host defending MAAC Champion Saint Peter's Feb. 3 at the Times Union Center.

Members of Siena's athletic programs interact with designated schools throughout the year. In addition to providing guidance and leadership to area youths, Siena's student athletes learn firsthand the value of volunteering in the community.

The men return to the hardwood Thursday night when they host Rider at the Times Union Center while the women welcome Niagara to the ARC Friday evening.