April 23, 2008

The 2008 MAAC Champion Siena College men's basketball team is making its way from the Siena College campus to the Times Union Center with a stop at City Hall aboard an Albany Aqua Duck Friday, April 25. The festivities begin with a rally at 2:30 p.m. in front of the College's Chapel, and culminate with a 4:30 p.m. press event in front of Times Union Center where politicians and dignitaries join to celebrate the memorable 2007-2008 season.

"This is a phenomenal opportunity for the Capital Region and Siena communities to gather and celebrate the exciting 2007-2008 men's basketball season," Siena College director of athletics John D'Argenio said. "The outpouring of support since the team's NCAA win over Vanderbilt has been tremendous, and we are excited to recognize the team aboard one of Albany's most enjoyed tourist attractions. Everyone is looking forward to the event."

Friday's tour begins at 2:30 p.m. from the front steps of the Siena Chapel, where head coach Fran McCaffery and select players will address students, faculty, administrators and fans. After a brief drive through the Siena campus, the Aqua Duck is scheduled to depart for Albany at 3 p.m.

At approximately 3:10 p.m., the tour splashes into the Hudson River at Corning Preserve. The next stop is at 4 p.m. at City Hall in downtown Albany where politicians and dignitaries join the party. The Aqua Duck arrives at Times Union Center shortly after 4:15 p.m. for the formal proceedings and celebration in front of the Arena's atrium. The tour returns to the Siena campus after leaving the Times Union Center.

Fans are encouraged to meet the procession at the Times Union Center, but are welcome to catch the tour at any of its stops along the way.

Confirmed dignitaries include: Mayor of Albany Hon. Gerald D. Jennings, Albany County Executive Michael G. Breslin, and Assembly Minority leader Jim Tedisco.