NEW PALTZ, NY – Samuel Snider of the SUNY New Paltz men's soccer team has been named the New Jersey Athletic Conference (NJAC) Defensive Player of the Week, becoming the first Hawk in program history to earn the distinction, as announced by the conference office Monday.
The senior captain showcased his versatility throughout the week, anchoring the Hawks' backline while providing a pivotal offensive contribution in a 1-1 draw against unbeaten TCNJ. Snider helped SUNY New Paltz collect four crucial conference points as the regular season enters its final stretch.
Snider opened the week with a complete 90-minute performance in Wednesday's 2-1 victory at Rutgers-Newark, helping limit the Scarlet Raiders to just four shots on goal. The senior commanded the center of the pitch, disrupting attacking opportunities and providing a steady presence in the Hawks' defensive unit.
The Oceanside native carried that momentum into Saturday's matchup against undefeated TCNJ, playing a key role in SUNY New Paltz's 1-1 draw with the Lions. Snider delivered a spectacular equalizer, blasting his second goal of the season into the upper portion of the net and past the outstretched TCNJ goalkeeper, who entered the contest riding a three-game shutout streak. His strike helped the Hawks secure another valuable point in the NJAC standings.
Beyond his contributions on the scoresheet, Snider was instrumental in controlling possession and connecting play throughout the week. A constant presence along the backline, he consistently won contested balls, pushed forward into the midfield and distributed sharp passes to help SUNY New Paltz transition into its attack. His communication and leadership were equally important in organizing the Hawks defensively against two conference opponents.
Snider and the Hawks return to NJAC action Wednesday, Oct. 21, when they visit William Paterson for a 7 p.m. matchup.
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