NCCC earns opening-weekend sweep

Coming off its first-ever appearance in the Region III, Division III championship, Niagara County Community College opened the season with a pair of home regional victories. The 2-0 start is the program's best since 2010 - head coach Carl Clark's first year at the helm.

"We know how important every single game is if we want to finish in the top eight (and make the playoffs) this year," Clark said. "It was nice to see our guys play with urgency and pick up two huge wins."

Up next for the Thunderwolves is a trip to Western New York Athletic Conference rival Jamestown CC at 5 p.m. Wednesday. 

Niagara CCC 1, North Country CC 0

Sophomore Grayson Dolata broke a scoreless tie with just 12 minutes remaining in regulation when he hammered home a cross from freshman Ryan LaRuffa. The T-Wolves out-shot the visiting Saints, 18-5, but sophomore goalkeeper Evan Rarick did come up with three big saves for the shutout.

Niagara CCC 2, Clinton CC 0

LaRuffa netted his first collegiate goal in the final minutes of the first half when he knocked in a rebound off the post. Sophomore Nick Walker was credited with the assist. Dolata gave NCCC some breathing room when he scored his second goal of the young season off a pass from sophomore Aaron Feltz in the 58th minute. Rarick earned his second shutout in as many days with seven saves.