Providence College’s men’s soccer squad is back on the pitch, ready to test its mettle against Long Island University on Friday, August 28. The clash will take place at Anderson Stadium’s Chapey Field in Providence, Rhode Island, and will be carried live on ESPN+.
The Friars arrive with a 1‑1‑0 record after a convincing 4‑1 victory over Sacred Heart and a narrow 3‑2 loss to Quinnipiac. Coach Brian Garrepy’s side is looking to build on the lessons from those opening contests as they head into a busy stretch.
A Fresh Roster
A core group of veterans will anchor the lineup. Graduate forward Sam Montalto, who earned a spot on the 2026 Preseason All‑BIG EAST Team, returns after leading the club with five goals and three assists last season. Midfielder Angelo Ventrella, a sophomore who burst onto the scene with five goals in 15 appearances, is expected to add creativity in the middle.
Goalkeeper Ryan Carney, a redshirt sophomore, brings a 1.32 goals‑against average and three shutouts from 2025, giving the defense a solid foundation. Defender Brandon Marshall, a senior and 2026 USL2 Defender of the Year, provides experience at the back, while midfielder Fernando Garcia Gil contributes two goals and two assists from the previous campaign.
Adding to the mix are 14 newcomers, including seven freshmen and seven transfers. Freshman Caleb Williams and junior Tino Kneis join the roster alongside transfer Alvaro Maneiro, who arrives from Iona after a 10‑goal, four‑assist season. Their integration promises to reshape the team’s dynamics.
The coaching staff has positioned the Friars third in the BIG EAST East Division Preseason Coaches’ Poll, a reflection of both optimism and the challenges ahead. This match marks the first-ever meeting with Long Island University, whose own season opened with a 5‑2 defeat to High Point University.
Looking forward, the Friars will travel to face Boston University on Monday, August 31, before returning home for the next series of contests. The early schedule offers a chance to fine‑tune strategies and build momentum as the season unfolds.