The Albany Knickerbockers have been competing in the Can-Am Tournament since the club began, and with some roster help from their crosstown rivals, they could keep the trophy in New York.

Albany will compete in the men's bracket of the 2018 Can-Am Tournament in Lake Placid, New York, on June 29, streaming LIVE on FloRugby!

A Northeast Classic

"The Can-Am is a staple tournament in the Northeast," said Albany captain Dom Petrella. "Our club was started in 1973 and we have old boys that still tell stories from back then."

The Knicks use the Can-Am tournament to prepare for the start of their men's league season. 

"We get a boost from the experienced older guys that come out and knock the cobwebs off for a tournament like this," Petrella said. "Good older players that can't play a lot of league games because of career and family conflicts."

Rivals Join The Ranks

Albany's biggest rival, the Saratoga Mustangs, won't field a team for the Can-Am. So a few Saratoga players will suit up in Albany blue to play in the historic Can-Am tournament. 

"Having a few guys call us from Saratoga... like yea its a rivalry, but it's about the rugby and there's something to be said for building bridges," Petrella said.