By Kyanna Wiggins
HEMPSTEAD: As the season enters a vital period, the Hofstra Pride men’s lacrosse team continues to find their rhythm behind consistent, fast-paced play at the hands of teammates, Anthony Mollica, senior attackman from Massapequa and Trevor Natalie, senior midfielder from Stuart, Fla. The players blend disciplined defense and transition play along the field of James M. Shuart Stadium.
The afternoon sun shines over the stadium, casting shadows over each player. The sound of sticks colliding with one another as whistles echo through the stadium off empty stands. Players are in constant motion, sprinting up and down the field. Some stood at the sidelines barking instructions, their voices urgent.
For Natalie, pace never declines. Between games and practice, he seizes all opportunities to show his competitive edge. “I’m not the biggest guy,” he said. “But I practiced hard and that’s what I take a lot of pride in.” While the team’s offense continues to develop, his ability to win ground balls and apply defensive pressure helps the Pride stay competitive.
He carved out his role as a reliable contributor to the team and a calming presence in times of pressure. “I really don’t get nervous,” Natalie said. “I see if everyone is OK, but I don’t get nervous whether good or bad.”
For Mollica, he never stops moving his feet, challenging his defenders while waiting for the right time to strike. When opportunities arise, he has shown a willingness to attack the crease while leading the offense.
The men’s team has shown resilience and flashes of promise throughout the season. But as the competition between conference teams intensifies, the pressure to perform strengthens. “What I’ve learned throughout my years here is to be calm under pressure,” said Natalie. “I take a deep breath and talk to my guys.”
A close game against Monmouth University demonstrated that pressure. “I love it, to be honest. It’s the best type of game to be a part of,” said Mollica. “Obviously, we didn’t end up with the win in our column. We won the second half 10-4 and lost the first half 9-2, so it’s a tale of two ends.”
With pressure, comes challenges. The team leans into their identity of resiliency and as a team that thrives in high intensity environments. When discussing their goals for the season, they are looking to reestablish themselves as top contenders for the Colonial Athletic Association, CAA. “This season has been a little bit of a rollercoaster season,” said Natalie. “I think the second half of that Monmouth game showed what kind of team we can be.”
Being able to rely on one another in times for the margin of error to shrink. As an attackman, Mollica emphasized the significance of team chemistry and feeding off his teammates energy. “Shout out to Trevor Natalie and Trey Parkes,” said Mollica. The connection between the players is undeniable. “They dodge down the alley and free up my hand so I can get some looks, come around and finish.”
Together, Mollica and Natalie share an overwhelming sense of pride for their team. Transferring from Jacksonville University, Natalie is able to compare programs. “I think Hofstra has a one of a kind culture,” said Natalie. “How well connected we are as a team whether it’s a bad or good season.”
Mollica echoed the same sentiment. Together, they exemplify what it means to wear a Hofstra jersey. Representing Hofstra means everything. “It’s a dream come true,” said Mollica. “I’m just trying to do the best I can to be a captain now and represent the program the best I can.”
With the CAA semifinals approaching, the Pride continues to push its way past adversity and hustle toward the pinnacle of success: the CAA championship. “The goal is the same. It’s a CAA championship,” said Mollica. Their journey has been defined by persistence, growth and teamwork in the pursuit of excellence.
