The annual Kids Day hosted by the Siena Women’s basketball team is a tradition that is beloved by so many people In the Capital Region.
LOUDONVILLE, NY- On January 5th, The Saints opened their doors to local school kids from Voorheesville, Oneida, Latham Ridge Elementary, and All Saints Catholic Academy to watch them take on the number one preseason ranked Niagara Purple Eagles. A matchup that would have been a lot different without 1,000 kids cheering. From the minute the game started you knew it was not going to be easy for Niagara to walk out victoriously. It was amazing that even though the college students had not returned from their winter break yet, the team still felt the support from the community. Combine these students’ energy with their excitement and you would have guessed that you were at an NCAA Women’s Final Four game. For the Saints, however, it was not just about filling the gymnasium, it was a way that they could give back to the community and thank them for supporting Siena Athletics.
In the days leading up to the highly anticipated matchup, both the men’s and the women’s basketball teams visited local schools to get to know their young fans. They spent time talking to the kids, answering any questions they had. What was it like to play basketball at the college level? What did they like to do when they weren’t playing basketball? Students also participated in different drills and games alongside the players and coaches. These relationships mean just as much to the athletes as they do the students. Many of the players such as sophomore guards Teresa Seppälä, and Elisa Mevius are international students. While they are making their families back home proud, it is also nice to know you have people here cheering you on as well. Creating these meaningful relationships with members of the local community with what Siena’s and the Franciscan Misson is all about.
Siena struck first with a fastbreak layup from sophomore guard, London Gamble. The Saints and Purple Eagles would continue exchanging points keeping it a close game until Siena went on a 17-3 run giving them a 28-17 lead with 6:03 left in the 2nd quarter following a jump shot by Seppäla. Niagara would manage to keep the game close all the way down until the final position. With 22 seconds left and the Saints down one 64-63, head coach Jim Jabir called timeout to draw up a play that would hopefully get the Saints back on top. Using Mevius, who would end up being the player of the game as a distraction; senior guard, Ahniysha Jackson was able to hit Seppäla in stride for the go-ahead layup. After a good defensive position by the Saints, Ciany Conyers was able to knock down a free throw forcing the Purple Eagles to take a last-minute three which was just off the mark. Siena alongside 1,000 plus kids were celebrating their 66-64 win. The Saints were led by Jackson with 17pts, and Elisa Mevius with 15 points, 7 steals, and 4 assists.
What a wonderful way to end such a special day for Siena College and the Capital Region community. Sports have a way of bringing people together. This game may have even inspired kids to want to play sports and who knows, some may grow to be Saints!