On Saturday, Oct. 9, the Hofstra Pride men’s lacrosse team hosted the Nick Colleluori Classic in connection with the HEADstrong Foundation at the James M. Shuart Stadium in Hempstead, New York.
Bucknell University, Long Island University, Siena College, Marist College and Air Force University all took part in the day of games.
The Bucknell Bison took on the LIU Sharks at 9 a.m. and then faced off against the Siena College Saints at 10:30 a.m. The Sharks proceeded afterward in their final game and faced the Marist Red Foxes at noon before the HEADstrong presentation.
The HEADstrong presentation brought all six teams on the field together where they were joined by speakers who spoke to everyone about the foundation and the meanings of the contributions. Joseph Detoma, who is fighting cancer, will be receiving a $2,000 check in his name.
During the presentation of the check, Pride defenseman Tim Hegarty was honored with the award of resiliency. Afterwards, the Saints finished their final game of the day against the Air Force University Falcons.
“I’ve known about the HEADstrong Foundation for a real long time,” said Siena head coach Liam Gleason. “They do a fantastic job of helping people that are affected by cancer. For us to be a part of something where we know it’s going to affect so many people, it’s a no-brainer.”
As the Pride took on the Foxes, Falcons head coach Bill Wilson spoke about the importance of the events.
“We’re thrilled to be here today,” Wilson said. “It makes it extra special to play in a tournament that represents the Colleluori family and their foundation.”
The Pride next played the Falcons and both teams battled until the final buzzer. Not long after, Hofstra finished their day against Marist University.
Both teams shook hands and players acknowledged each other in happiness for an eventful day that meant a lot to many people.
“We were privileged today,” said Marist head coach Adam Keegan Wilkinson. “I think the event they put on and what this foundation has been able to do is just really incredible. For us, it’s especially meaningful to our program because we have unfortunately lost a player in 2011 and we understand what that can do and the toll it can take on college students, families and programs. We just wanted to lend our support to the Hofstra team and family by showing up today and helping to raise for a truly outstanding organization that we have.”
“It’s an emotional day to think that Nick Colleluori’s legacy has gotten stronger over the years,” said Hofstra head coach Seth Tierney. “[It] shows you the impact that he had on this program. My one goal for today [was getting] the 50 guys to play as hard as Nick Colleluori did while he was here.”
On Sunday, Oct. 10, the Pride women’s lacrosse team will host the HEADstrong foundation. They will take on the University of Southern California. The opening draw will be at 8 a.m.
Photo courtesy of Jacob Lewis/The Hofstra Chronicle
