Buffalo, N.Y.- Five past and present members of the St. John’s volleyball program earned a silver medal this past weekend at the Empire State Games in Buffalo, N.Y. The Red Storm members played for the New York City Open Division team that posted a round robin record of 4-1, earning the No. 1 seed in the medal round. The team secured victories over Long Island and Central but fell twice to gold medal winner Western.

Current Red Storm players that were keys to the New York attack were sophomore Jackie Ahlers and junior Yana Ruban. Ahlers was a dominant force that could attack from all over the court. Ruban was an intimidating presence in the middle anchoring the teams blocking defense.

St. John’s alum and all-time career kills leader Olga Roudovski hasn’t lost a step since graduation, providing a dominant offensive presence. Head Coach Joanne Persico-Smith proved she still “got game”, lacing up the sneakers and providing on the court leadership. The New York team was coached by current Red Storm assistant coach Mario Treibitch.