BROCKPORT, N.Y. — The Brockport men's soccer team enters a pivotal stretch of its Empire 8 schedule this week, beginning Wednesday when the Golden Eagles host Elmira College at 4 p.m. at Bob Boozer Field before traveling to Utica on Saturday for a 7 p.m. conference matchup.

Brockport enters the week at 5-3-2 overall and 4-0-1 in Empire 8 play, currently sitting atop the conference standings. Elmira brings a 4-5-1 overall record and a 2-2-1 mark in league play into Wednesday's contest, while Utica stands at 5-5-1 overall and 3-2 in the Empire 8 heading into the weekend.

Senior Day Celebration

The Golden Eagles opened October with a memorable Senior Day performance, defeating Russell Sage 3-2 on October 3 to remain unbeaten in Empire 8 play.

Prior to kickoff, Brockport honored seniors Jadin Lyle, Trevor Lagarde, Matthew Sandison, and Keegan Watson for their contributions to the program.

Sophomore forward Ryan Mathis powered the Golden Eagle attack, leading all players with 10 shots and seven shots on goal while finding the back of the net twice. Mathis' second goal proved to be the game-winner as Brockport secured its fourth conference victory of the season.

Finn Sullivan added his first goal of the season, while Trevor Lagarde and Jaime Joel each recorded an assist.

Mathis Earns Empire 8 Recognition

Mathis' outstanding week earned him Empire 8 Men's Soccer Co-Offensive Athlete of the Week honors.

The sophomore delivered a pair of difference-making performances during Brockport's two conference contests last week. In a 1-1 draw at Alfred, Mathis rescued a point for the Golden Eagles with a clutch goal in the 89th minute, leading all players with 10 shots and six shots on goal.

He followed that performance with a two-goal effort against Russell Sage, finishing the week with 20 shots, 13 shots on goal, three goals, and six points.

Mathis currently leads the Empire 8 in both goals (7) and points (16) and ranks among the nation's top performers in several statistical categories. He ranks 29th in Division III in goals, while his 2.30 shots on goal per game rank 14th nationally and his 3.90 shots per game rank 24th.

Through 10 games, Mathis is already approaching his 2025 production of eight goals and two assists while establishing a new single-season high with three game-winning goals. His three game-winners are tied for 10th in Division III.

Golden Eagles Among Empire 8 Leaders

Brockport has established itself as one of the Empire 8's most productive offensive teams while sitting atop the conference standings.

The Golden Eagles lead the Empire 8 with 6.5 corner kicks per game and rank second in the conference with 17 goals and 51 points through five league contests.

Lagarde has played a major role in Brockport's offensive success, ranking second in the Empire 8 with 0.67 assists per game, a mark that ranks 15th nationally in Division III.

Alongside Lagarde, Brockport's attack features two of the conference's top goal scorers in Mathis and Khadim Amar, who rank first and second, respectively, in the Empire 8 in goals.

Scouting Elmira

Elmira enters Wednesday's matchup looking to build momentum after snapping a two-game losing streak with a 2-1 home victory over Nazareth last Saturday.

The Golden Eagles have historically controlled the series, posting an 8-0-2 record over the last 10 meetings. Elmira will be looking for its first victory over Brockport since the 1994 season.

With both teams battling for position in the Empire 8 standings, Wednesday's matchup presents another opportunity for the Golden Eagles to maintain their unbeaten conference record and strengthen their position atop the league.

Scouting Utica

Following Wednesday's matchup, Brockport will travel to Utica for a Saturday night conference showdown.

The Pioneers enter the week at 5-5-1 overall and 3-2 in Empire 8 play and have won three of their last four contests. Utica most recently defeated Houghton 3-2 on Senior Night and will host St. John Fisher before welcoming Brockport on Saturday.

Brockport earned a 2-1 home victory over Utica last season. The programs have met just eight times since 1994, with the Golden Eagles holding a 6-0-2 advantage in the all-time series. Utica will be searching for its first win over Brockport in program history.

With a pair of Empire 8 tests on the schedule, the Golden Eagles will look to carry their recent momentum into the weekend and continue their push at the top of the conference standings.

Up Next: Brockport will host Nazareth for men's soccer's ALS Awareness Game on Wednesday, October 14th at 7 pm.