AMERICAN SOCCER CLUB-NEW YORK SIGNS DEFENDER LUKE KIRILENKO

Cambridge, England native joins the Fighting Tomcats for the 2026 season

Long Island, NY (March 31st, 2026) – American Soccer Club-New York has announced the signing of defender Luke Kirilenko to a one-year deal for the 2026 National Premier Soccer League season. Kirilenko spent his freshman collegiate season at Virginia before transferring to Rider. After three seasons with the Broncs, the Cambridge, England native will play his graduate season in 2026 at Hofstra University.
“I’m really excited,” said Kirilenko. “Being on Long Island for the summer is something I’m looking forward to. There’s a lot going on there, and it’s a great environment to be in. I also have a number of my Hofstra teammates in the area, so being able to train and compete alongside them makes it even better. For this season, my expectations are to win and to be part of a professional environment while competing at a high level every day and continuing to push my development forward.”
Kirilenko played in 54 matches at Rider with 24 starts. He tallied three goals to go along with two assists and had 36 shots. Before his collegiate career, he went to Impington International College (High School) in England before spending three years at the academy level in Spain. He competed an additional two years in England before starting college at Virginia.
“I believe Luke is going to be a strong addition to the squad,” said ASC New York Head Coach John Fitzgerald. “He’s serious about his fitness and has an engine that’s always going. He’s played in England and Spain before being a regular in a talented Rider University program, and now he’s in another strong program at Hofstra. He brings a winning mentality and embraces competition. We’re happy to have him join us.”
The 5-9, 155-pound Kirilenko is looking forward to what lies ahead for him on Long Island with the Fighting Tomcats.
“From what I’ve seen so far, I’ve been really impressed with the culture around the team,” said Kirilenko. “There’s a clear level of professionalism and ambition, and it’s a group that’s serious about improving and competing, which is exactly the kind of environment I want to be part of.” 
American Soccer Club-New York will be making additional announcements in the upcoming weeks including player signings and new partnerships. The Fighting Tomcats will open their 2026 National Premier Soccer League season on May 2nd against the New York Shockers at historic Mitchel Athletic Complex in Uniondale, the club’s primary home venue.

About American Soccer Club-New York

Founded in 2024, the American Soccer Club-New York (ASC NY), known as the “Fighting Tomcats,” are a Long Island-Metro NY team, competing in the National Premier Soccer League. The club’s identity pays tribute to the region’s aviation heritage through the iconic Grumman F-14 Tomcat. ASC NY is committed to developing local talent and signed 16-year-old Dylan Lopez in its inaugural 2025 season. The Club’s focus is on engaging the community and elevating Long Island as the epicenter for American soccer development. The organization played its home matches at Hofstra University’s Captains Field in 2025 and has already made its mark with early competitive success, US Open Cup qualification and charitable partnerships, and a strong focus on youth development and regional pride.

For more information about American soccer Club- New York, please Contact ASCNY.