By: Stephen Gorchov
Hempstead, NY - Hofstra University Athletics announced today that the men's lacrosse program will retire the jersey of Ryan Tierney, honoring one of the most accomplished student-athletes in program history. Tierney's No. 13 will become the 31st jersey number retired in Hofstra Athletics history and the fourth men's lacrosse student-athlete to receive the distinction.
Tierney will join James C. Metzger (#56), Doug Shanahan (#26), and Jerry Simandl (#10) as members of the Hofstra men's lacrosse program to have their jersey number retired.Â
"Ryan Tierney's impact on Hofstra Athletics and our men's lacrosse program is extraordinary," said Hofstra Vice President and Director of Athletics
Rick Cole Jr. "His accomplishments on the field speak for themselves, but his legacy goes far beyond the record books. Ryan represents everything we strive for in a Hofstra student-athlete — excellence, leadership, humility, and pride in wearing the Hofstra uniform. Retiring his jersey is a fitting honor for a player who helped define an era of Pride lacrosse and left a lasting mark on our University."
"This is an incredibly special and emotional moment for me, both as a coach and as a father," said Hofstra Head Men's Lacrosse Coach
Seth Tierney. "Ryan poured his heart into this program every single day. He earned the respect of his teammates, coaches, and opponents through his work ethic, competitiveness, and love for Hofstra lacrosse. Watching him grow as a player and as a person, while wearing the Pride uniform, is something I will cherish forever. Having his jersey retired is a tremendous honor and a testament to the legacy he leaves behind at Hofstra."
A member of the Hofstra men's lacrosse program from 2017 to 2021, Tierney concluded his career as the program's all-time leader in goals and points, finishing with 164 goals and 251 points. His name remains etched throughout the Hofstra and CAA record books as one of the most prolific offensive players the conference has seen.
Tierney was named the CAA Player of the Year in 2021 and also earned CAA Rookie of the Year honors in 2017, becoming one of the most decorated players in league history. He was a multiple-time All-CAA selection and garnered All-American recognition during his career. Tierney finished his Hofstra tenure as the CAA's all-time leader in goals and points at the time of his graduation, underscoring his lasting impact on the conference.
In his senior season, Tierney recorded 43 goals and 22 assists for 65 points, ranking among the top single-season performances in program history. His offensive production and consistency defined an era for Hofstra men's lacrosse, as he delivered game-changing performances throughout his career, including multiple eight-goal outings and several of the highest-scoring games ever recorded by a Pride student-athlete.
Beyond the numbers, Tierney was a leader within the program. His passion for the game, competitiveness, and commitment to the Pride set a standard for those who followed.
The retirement of Tierney's No. 13 jersey ensures that his legacy will remain a permanent part of Hofstra men's lacrosse history, honoring a player whose achievements and impact helped shape the program and elevate it on both the conference and national stages.
Tierney's jersey retirement ceremony will take place on Saturday, April 4 when Hofstra takes on Fairfield. More details about the ceremony will be announced.Â
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