Chenango Valley graduate Chelsea Henige played a key role in the Albany Great Danes 6-1 victory over the Maine Black Bears on Sunday in the America East Softball Tournament Championship game played at Binghamton University.  Henige slammed a three-run home run in the third inning following a three hour and 13 minute rain delay to lift her team from a 1-1 tie to a 4-1 lead.  The Great Danes added two more runs in the seventh inning to secure the victory.  The win gives Albany its sixth America East Tournament Championship and avenges Maine's 14- 1 win last season in the title game.

Henige has had a standout season for the Great Danes.  The sophomore started every game this year either catching or acting as the designated hitter.  She is hitting .336, second on the team behind America East Player of the Year Liz Snow.  She was named to the America East All-Tournament Team for her standout play.

Henige starred at Chenango Valley High School where she was a two-year captain of the softball team, earned All-State honors and was named the state's Class B Co-Player of the Year.

With the America East Championship Albany earns an automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament.  The Great Danes will meet the Alabama Crimson Tide in the Tuscaloosa Regional this Friday, May 19 at 5:00 PM.  Alabama is a 16th overall seed and received an at-large-bid after falling to Ole Miss in their conference tournament.

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