By Chris Vaccaro
Plenty of restaurants and eateries are available near the University, and Champions Sports Bar is one that has a lot to offer.
Located inside the Long Island Marriott Hotel and Conference Center, just across from the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum and minutes away from campus, Champions is an entertaining establishment that engages its customers in a sports-filled atmosphere.
The University’s connection to the bar happens Wednesday nights from 7 to 9 p.m. as WRHU-FM (88.7) hosts “The Hofstra Football Show.” Sports director Jared Greenberg, as well as Pride Head Coach Joe Gardi, chat about Pride football, taking an in-depth look at the week’s Pride gridiron stories. From past game breakdowns, to upcoming previews, a multitude of topics are covered in this weekly two-hour show. Raffles, giveaways and trivia contests take place during the show as well.
“There’s a decent turnout, but we’re looking to get more students in here,” said John Dass, Champions’ restaurant manager. “We’ll be having specials and promotions throughout the year to attract students.”
On Monday nights from 7 to 8 p.m., Champions has “Inside the Jets” with Jets General Manager Terry Bradway, broadcasted on ESPN Radio 1050 AM. Like WRHU’s show, this offers analysis from the perspective of a front office member. A different player also attends each week.
“It usually gets a little crowded,” Dass said. “It’s a good idea to get here early if you want a good seat.”
The guest player signs autographs and spends time speaking with fans.
After that show, guests get ready for Monday Night Football.
“We get some Hofstra students for Monday Night, a whole group of Eagles fans usually pack it out,” Dass says.
For all NFL fans, Champions offers the NFL Sunday Ticket from DirecTV. Each NFL game is displayed on the big-screen TVs all over the bar. Guests can enjoy stadium chairs and their favorite teams in action.
ESPN’s College Game Plan for NCAA football is on the big screens every Saturday, while MLB Extra Innings, MLS Direct Kick and NHL Center Ice play during their respective seasons.
The food isn’t bad either. The menu offers a wide variety of appetizing meals and drinks. Start with their specialty appetizers, move to their entrees and finish off with a tasty dessert, after washing it all down with their signature drink, the “Islanders” iced tea.
Happy hour drink and food specials along with great service, talented chefs and hospitality, leave customers wanting to come back for more.
Sports memorabilia collectors could appreciate the quality of materials on display at the bar. Many like the nostalgia it brings to the already sporty bar.
Champions has pre and post-game parties for the New York Islanders, arena football’s New York Dragons and indoor lacrosse’s New York Saints.
Students have the option to bring their laptops to Champions. They launched a high-speed wireless Internet service, known as iBahn. It’s best to contact a bartender or server at Champions for direct information about this service.
“If you like sports and want a place to have a good time, Champions is the place to be,” Dass said. “That’s what we’re all about.”
They are open from 11:30 to 12:00 a.m. Monday through Friday, and 11:30 to 2:00 a.m. on the weekends. You can log onto www.championsli.com for more information about the bar.
Sundays are particularly popular for Pride students at Champions as each National Football League game is shown via DirecTV and the Sunday Ticket. (James Parziale)