Saturday evening at LaValle Stadium, the Hofstra Pride will step onto the field for their first Coastal Athletic Association contest of the season, kicking off at 6:31 p.m. The match marks the beginning of a conference slate that could define the team’s trajectory in 2026.
Hofstra arrives with a 2‑0 record after narrow victories over Bucknell and American, and the early results have already highlighted a potent attacking duo. Bastian Carlman and Sean Keane each found the net twice while also contributing an assist, giving the Pride a balanced offensive threat.
In goal, keeper Milo Risenhoover has been nothing short of spectacular, making seven saves in the latest win and preserving a clean sheet that earned him CAA Defensive Player of the Week honors. His reliability between the posts provides a solid foundation for an otherwise youthful side.
A historic rivalry revisited
The historical ledger favors the Pride, who hold a 21‑13‑7 edge over the Seawolves and even swept the 2025 regular‑season meetings. That advantage, however, was tempered by a 2‑1 defeat in the CAA Semifinals, a reminder that past success does not guarantee future results.
Looking ahead, Hofstra will travel to Queens on Tuesday night to face St. John’s at 7 p.m., a non‑conference test that could further sharpen the team before the next CAA showdown.
Key Players to Watch
Beyond Carlman, Keane and Risenhoover, emerging contributors such as Elliot Burqueno and Alex Fleury will be crucial for Stony Brook, while Hofstra’s midfield depth could be tested by the aggressive pressing of their opponents.