Hofstra University Athletics

LINDA WING CARUSO

Linda Wing Caruso, a dual-sport student-athlete in field hockey and women’s lacrosse, played for the Pride from 1974 through 1978.

A goalkeeper on the field hockey team for four years, Linda helped the Pride to a 12-5-2 record in her first two seasons. In 1974, playing for Coach Jane O’Brien, the Pride went 5-3-2 and qualified for the NYSAIAW Division II Tournament, posting a 1-1 record. In 1975 the team went 7-2 with six of the wins coming via shutout as the Pride surrendered just four goals all season.

As a freshman, Linda was named the Hofstra’s Most Improved Player and then went on to earn Most Valuable Team Member accolades as a junior and senior. She also served as team captain during her final two seasons.

A member of Hofstra’s inaugural women’s lacrosse team in 1976, which was coached by Hofstra Athletics Hall of Famer Dr. Nathalie J. Smith, Linda was team captain and helped provide the foundation for the success the women’s lacrosse team has attained the past decade.

Linda was a key defender during her time on the lacrosse team as the program transitioned from the club level to intercollegiate status. In 1977 she played in all four games and recorded a goal in the season finale against the Long Island Women’s Lacrosse Association club team. In 1978, playing a full intercollegiate schedule, Linda helped the team win the first three games in program history as the team went 3-5. During her final season in 1978, Linda played in all 11 games, recorded five shots on goal and was named Most Valuable Team Member.

Following graduation, Linda worked on Wall Street until 1988 and in 1990, after starting a family, began coaching JV girls’ lacrosse and field hockey at Manhasset High School until 1996. Since 2000 she has been coaching junior high girls’ lacrosse in the Port Washington School District.

Linda is an active supporter of the athletics program and has been a member of the Hofstra Pride Club since its inception and has served on the board of directors for many years. Also active in her community, she volunteers with the Port Washington PAL and has been an officer in the organization since 1993.