By Bob Bonett

Following JoAnne Russell’s run as the women’s soccer head coach at Hofstra, the team knew that it wanted a coach with a knack for defense and a history of winning. They ultimately looked no further than associate head coach and Hofstra alum Simon Riddiough.

Riddiough, a native of Barnsley, England, arrived on the scene in Hempstead as a member of the men’s soccer program in 1990. Gaining recognition as a defensive superstar, Riddiough played two ways, managing to total 41 points in his four years with the Pride.

However, Riddiough’s true prowess did not truly show itself on the offensive end of the ball. One of the best defenders in Hofstra’s history, Riddiough anchored a defense that was difficult to score on, a mentality that has survived over a decade and transformed over to the Lady Pride’s soccer program.

An associate head coach for the women’s team since 1996, Riddiough managed to help the Pride gain recognition as the third best defensive team in 2003, and the 16th best in 2002.

Continuing with this tradition, in his final year under Russell, the Pride allowed only three goals in 11 conference games en route to their first Colonial Athletic Association championship.

However, for a first year coach, Riddiough immediately found his work cut out for him. “We have had to overcome a lot of adversity, and now always keep our fingers crossed,” Riddiough said, referring to the multitude of injuries that hit Hofstra virtually overnight in the offseason, including CAA Rookie of the Year Edel Malone.

But despite these injuries, Riddiough’s confidence in his ball club has not yet swayed. “We have to rely on players we have never had to with our lack of depth, but without a doubt, I still expect success,” he said.

Riddiough’s confidence has shown in the Pride’s play this season, Prior to two tough losses over the weekend to CAA powerhouses Old Dominion and No. 16 William & Mary, the Pride was sitting at 6-3-1 overall, 2-0 in the conference.

And despite these two losses to even the conference slate at 2-2, Riddiough remains content with his team’s play, and optimistic about another spectacular postseason run again.

“Right now we are probably second or third in the conference, but our girls have already done a fantastic job, and I look to success in the playoffs,” he said.