Hofstra vs. Drexel In 2nd HEADstrong Hero Bowl, 4/4

Hempstead, NY – On Saturday, April 4th at 1PM EST, the Hofstra Pride will host CAA rivals, the Drexel Dragons, in the 2nd Annual HEADstrong Hero Bowl at James M. Shuart Stadium. The HEADstrong Hero Bowl will pay homage to cancer survivors and serve as a tribute to those who have lost their battle against cancer. The uniqueness surrounding this event is that it follows the regular season CAA schedule, providing an opportunity for service and volunteerism for students on both campuses. Click here to purchase tickets.

The victor will be presented with a custom-made, 3-tiered lime and royal blue trophy with a silver cup on top. The trophy will be proudly displayed in the athletic office of the winning school for the year. Last season, Hofstra claimed the trophy with a thrilling 11-9 victory over Drexel.

This year, teams will help raise awareness for HEADstrong Foundation™ by taking the field wearing HF lime green shoelaces and chinstraps.

Over the years, both Hofstra and Drexel University have been closely involved with HF™. Founder, Nicholas Colleluori was a beloved member of the Hofstra Pride men’s lacrosse team before and during his cancer diagnosis, and the program has continued to support several of the organization’s events and campaigns since the Foundation’s inception. But, it was in 2006, shortly after Colleluori’s diagnosis of non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, the Drexel Dragons became the first collegiate men’s lacrosse team to wear HEADstrong’s iconic lime green shoelaces during a televised game against the University of Virginia, which helped the organization gain national interest.

In the years following Colleluori’s untimely passing, Hofstra and Drexel have continued to battle on the playing field, becoming one of the most exciting and established CAA rivalries. One of the most incredible stories to come out of history of these two teams took place in 2008, when the Pride stunned the Dragon’s capturing the CAA Championship in one of the most thrilling lacrosse games in conference history: at the game, a mesh cast of Nicholas Colleluori’s silhouette used during his radiation wearing his #27 jersey was proudly hoisted and carried off the field in victory. It was one of the most special moments for the Colleluori family who was still trying to mend from the loss of their beloved son and brother.

“On behalf of the HEADstrong Foundation and those affected by cancers we wish to extend our sincere appreciation to Hofstra University, Drexel University and the Colonial Athletic Association for recognizing our cause and assisting us to create this special charity event to raise awareness and funds to support cancer patients and families who have been devastated by these diseases. Both programs are very close to our organization and we applaud their efforts in helping us to make a difference. That day, Hofstra Men’s Lacrosse will be welcoming back alumni and their families and we know that this will be the perfect atmosphere for taking the field for the cause, remembering our Nick, celebrating HEADstrong and honoring those affected by the disease.” HEADstrong President Cheryl Colleluori and Nick’s Mom

Please visit www.HEADstrong.org, to learn more about how HEADstrong Foundation™ is changing the game for cancer patients and their families.