Albany, NY – The Sage Colleges' Department of Athletics has announced the selection of Rob Soris (Schenectady, NY/Niskayuna) as the new assistant men's volleyball coach. He joins the staff lead by head coach Robert Verhayden.

Verhayden noted, "I am very excited to have Rob Soris join the staff as my assistant coach." Verhayden went on to add, "Rob brings a wealth of volleyball experience to the program.  A local product, Rob starred at Niskayuna High School before going on to play for Springfield College.  A setter by trade, he will be a great addition to Sage in both the practice gym, working directly with our players and as a recruiter.  Being a current volleyball player at the Men's Open Club level, Rob has many contacts in the volleyball community that should assist in our recruiting efforts."

A 2007 graduate of Springfield College with a bachelor of science degree in mathematics, Soris led the Pride for two seasons having played in 2004 and 2005. He racked up 1,229 career setting assists, which remains among the top in program history to this day as he is No. 9. His 10.69 setting assists per set average also ranks among the top 10 in program history as well.

While at Springfield College, he earned the President Achiever's Award as well as the Springfield College Carolyn Doggett Fiction Award. A former standout at Niskayuna High School, he was the recipient of the Suburban Council Sportsmanship Award in volleyball, while also earning acclaim as a Scholar-Athlete and attained a selection to the National Honor Society. He has also worked as a camp counselor and instructor for volleyball camps at Springfield College and Siena College.

The 2016 Gators will open the new season on January 22 and 23 when they travel to SUNY-Polytechnic to compete in the Wildcat Invitational. Sage's 2016 home opener will take place on January 27 when they host the Wildcats of SUNY-Polytechnic at Kahl Gym at 7 p.m.