Hudson Valley Athletics Celebrates National Girls & Women in Sports Day
CONTACT: Julia Quinlan, j.quinlan@hvcc.edu, (518) 629-7863 or (518) 530-7376
FOR RELEASE: Immediate, Wednesday, February 4, 2026
Hudson Valley Community College Athletics proudly recognizes National Girls and Women in Sports Day (NGWSD), celebrating the achievements, leadership, and impact of female student-athletes and coaches who continue to elevate Hudson Valley Athletics through excellence, dedication, and teamwork.
NGWSD serves as a national celebration of the opportunities sports provide for women and girls to compete, lead, and succeed. At Hudson Valley, female student-athletes and coaches exemplify these values through competitive success and a commitment to growth on and off the field.
Women's basketball and softball sophomore Samantha Graham has made an immediate impact as a multi-sport athlete. Graham helped lead the softball program to a national tournament appearance last season and joined the women's basketball team this year, continuing to contribute at a high level across programs.
"National Girls and Women in Sports Day is a reminder that girls belong at every level of competition," Graham said. "Being a female athlete means working hard, staying disciplined, believing in yourself, and never letting stereotypes limit what you can or cannot do."
Women's bowling sophomore Jennifer Doty has emerged as one of the program's top competitors. Doty was a regional and conference leader last season, earned a national tournament appearance, and currently leads the women's bowling team in multiple statistical categories. Her success is matched by her leadership within a close, competitive team culture.
"National Girls and Women in Sports Day is a reminder of what it means to represent my sport with pride and be part of a close team that supports one another and pushes each other to be better every day," Doty said. "Having the opportunity to compete while representing my school is special, and it's meaningful to see women's bowling continue to grow."
Leadership and excellence at the coaching level are embodied by Head Volleyball Coach Therese DeCan, who guided the Vikings to an undefeated season and a trip to the NJCAA National Tournament in Iowa this past fall. DeCan's impact extends beyond competitive success, focusing on mentorship and the holistic development of her student-athletes.
"Being a leader to these young women means so much more than wins and losses," DeCan said. "National Girls & Women in Sports Day is a reminder of the power sports have to shape confident, resilient athletes who believe in themselves. I'm proud to guide, challenge, and support them as they pursue success on the court, in the classroom, and in life."
Hudson Valley Athletics remains committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment where female student-athletes and coaches are empowered to compete, lead, and succeed while inspiring the next generation of women in sports.