Hofstra University Aims to Build on Strong Playoff Finish with Revamped 2024-25 Roster

Hofstra University enters the 2024-25 season looking to build upon a strong foundation, bolstered by returning talent and fresh recruits. Under the leadership of Head Coach Ryan Kelly, the Pride aims to make a mark in the highly competitive DIII Silver Division, facing rivals such as Fairfield, Rutgers, Stevens Institute of Technology, Stony Brook, and the University of New Haven.

Returning Forwards: The Pride welcomes back a solid core of forwards, including key players like Matthew Materazo and Jordan Cox, last season's top scorers with 34 points each. Cox also represented Hofstra at the 2024 AAU College Hockey All-Star Challenge as part of Team Empire. Matt Cosola, Frank Fezza, Camden Kelly, Christian Maurer, Jake Rook, Joseph Schnatter, James Van Eron, and Brendan Yerkes round out this experienced group, expected to drive Hofstra's offensive efforts throughout the season.

New Forwards: Hofstra adds exciting new talent to its forward lineup, including Nico Buglione, who led the Nassau County Lions 18U AA in goals and points with 20 goals and 26 points in 20 games. Other promising additions like Andrew Capasso, Royce Dickson-Child from the SFHC Lancers in California, and Gage Gehris from Pennsylvania’s Boyertown Area High School bring additional scoring potential and depth to the team.

Returning Defensemen: Hofstra's defense will again be anchored by experienced returners, including Nick Aloisio and Chris Del Pennino, who provide stability at the back end. Robert Criscuolo, another returning player, will continue to support both defensive and offensive plays.

New Defensemen: The Pride’s defense is further bolstered by new recruits like Daniel McArdle, who led the Long Island Edge 18U AA defensemen in assists last season, and Alan Verkhovsky from the Brooklyn Aviators. With these additions, Hofstra aims to strengthen its defensive strategies and fortify its blue line.

Returning Goaltenders: Spyro Markoulis returns as Hofstra’s starting goaltender after a standout performance last season, highlighted by a heroic 95-save effort in the 4OT loss to Sacred Heart in the quarterfinals of the conference playoffs. His experience and endurance will be key to the Pride's success this year. James John Picone will return to back him up between the pipes.

Looking Back at Last Season: Last season, Hofstra’s playoff run ended in dramatic fashion, with a 3-2 loss in 4OT to Sacred Heart, the eventual Black Division Champions. The Pride’s season ended earlier than they had hoped, as they did not qualify for the National Championship tournament.

Outlook for the 2024-25 Season: Now competing in the Silver Division, Hofstra is determined to push for playoff success and a potential National Championship berth. The blend of seasoned veterans like Materazo, Cox, and Markoulis, along with exciting new recruits, positions Hofstra to be a formidable contender in their division this season. Key to their success will be the ability of returning players to maintain their offensive production and the integration of new talent into the lineup.

With a deep roster, strong leadership, and a clear vision, Hofstra University enters the 2024-25 season eager to make a lasting impression and elevate their program to new heights.