Siena basketball supporter and Rally Nun Mary Stephen Vamosy dies at 83
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 1, 2026, 11:00 AM
Last updated Sep 1, 2026

Sister Mary Stephen Vamosy, one half of the duo known as the Rally Nuns who became fixtures at Siena men's basketball games, has died in Watervliet at age 83. Alongside Sister James Marie Carras, Vamosy gained notoriety starting in 2003 for their enthusiastic support of the Saints while wearing habits and, occasionally, foam fingers. The pair attended games together for over two decades, famously appearing on the video scoreboard to encourage fans at home games. Their presence became a staple during the program's three consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances between 2008 and 2010. While Carras continued to attend games throughout the most recent season, Vamosy had been absent due to declining health. The two were longtime friends who met in the convent at St. Colman's Home and shared a devotion to the team that endeared them to the local fanbase.
- •Sister Mary Stephen Vamosy passed away peacefully in her sleep at 83.
- •Vamosy and Sister James Marie Carras began attending games together in 2003.
- •The duo were dubbed the Rally Nuns by former Siena president Rev. Kevin Mackin.
- •They frequently appeared on the video scoreboard to energize Saints fans at MVP Arena.
- •The Rally Nuns supported the team during its NCAA Tournament run from 2008 to 2010.
- 11:00 AMYahoo Sports — Vamosy, one of Siena basketball's 'Rally Nuns', passes away at 83
"Vamosy and Carras were friends for 62 years, ever since they met in the convent at St. Colman's Home in Watervliet. Vamosy was two years ahead of Carras in the novitiate.
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