Hofstra University fans are brimming with pride, celebrating their team’s remarkable achievement of reaching the NCAA Tournament for the first time in 25 years. Despite the 90-70 loss to Alabama, a game that was far closer than the scoreline suggests, the blue and gold supporters continue to hold their heads high.
“They left it all out there,” remarked Hofstra season ticket holder Al Arthur to The Post. “It’s been a very emotional ride.” Arthur, who is the father of a recent graduate, experienced the thrilling back-and-forth match at Birdie Bar in Northport. The game saw Hofstra mounting an impressive 16-2 run in the first half, finishing the first 20 minutes trailing by just 37-35. The bar’s owner, Louie Selvaggio, shares a friendship with Hofstra’s head coach, Speedy Claxton, adding a personal touch to the fan experience.
The bar was alive with anticipation and excitement, as fans sipped on specially crafted blue “Speedy-tini” cocktails, served by staff donning Claxton jerseys. The atmosphere was electric, fueled by the pride and enthusiasm of the Hofstra community.
Just down the road, at Robke’s, a sister restaurant, the excitement reached a new level. Claxton himself had dined there the previous week after clinching the CAA championship. The Italian eatery erupted in cheers when waiter “Matty Birthday” led patrons in a rousing Hofstra cheer at the start of the game. The energy and support from the fans demonstrated their unwavering loyalty and love for the team.
The bar was filled with excited fans, some drinking specially made, blue “Speedy-tini” cocktails concocted by staff in Claxton jerseys.
Down the road at its sister restaurant, Robke’s, where Claxton ate last week after winning the CAA, the Italian joint exploded with excitement when waiter “Matty Birthday’s” led the whole joint in a ground-shaking Hofstra cheer at tipoff.
Arthur’s friend, fellow season ticket holder Ken Pilla, admired the Pride for playing with pride until the final whistle — despite Bama running away with it in the final few minutes.
“I think that’s a reflection of their coach and the coaching staff,” he said. “That’s Speedy right on down.”
The duo, plus Arthur’s wife, Carol, all recognize that Hofstra’s star players caught national attention Friday in the transfer-portal age of collegiate sports.
They were relieved to know that freshman phenom Preston Edmead, whose 24 points were the most scored by a Hofstra player in March Madness since the 1970s, plans to return next season, per his dad, John.
“He is very impressive,” Alex said of the Deer Park native.
“I would like to thank him personally for seeing that there’s more than just following the money.”
As for Selvaggio, who played against Claxton and his Christ the King High School at Saint Dominic High School years ago, he’s glad people will finally remember the name Hofstra.
“There has been such a buzz around Long Island for these guys,” said the owner.
Right before the game, he gave Hofstra varsity jackets to Claxton and Nets assistant coach Jay Hernandez, who played with Speedy at the university during its last two tournament runs under Jay Wright in 2000 and 2001.
“We’re just so happy and proud of them. Next year, we’re going to go right back,” Selvaggio said.
