Clash of the Quads Rivalry Returns to University at Albany Sept. 6
Spirit-building School Tradition Revitalized in 2003

Contact(s):  Catherine Herman (518) 956-8150, ([email protected])

ALBANY, N.Y. (Sept. 3, 2008) � Defending champion University Apartments will face off against the competition at Clash of the Quads on Saturday, Sept. 6, from 1 to 4 p.m. on Collins Circle.

The University at Albany's six residential areas will battle against one another in three-legged races, egg-on-spoon relays, and a tug of war in this spirit-building school tradition that was revitalized in 2003. More than a thousand students have attended the event in recent years.

The tradition began around 1913 as a rivalry between the freshman and sophomore classes, when the University at Albany was known as the New York State College for Teachers. The event lasted into the 1960s. Eventually, it included upperclassmen. Each class had its own class song, fight song, and a large banner featuring its class year and mascot.

"UAlbany students are the heart of the University community, and their spirit and enthusiasm flows throughout the campus," said Director of Residential Life Laurie Garafola. "During Clash of the Quads, students spend days working on banners, face painting, and other identifying features associated with the quads. There is a real camaraderie that you feel when you watch each group take the field in its quad-specific colors. It truly is a great event."