AMERICAN SOCCER CLUB-NEW YORK SIGNS FORWARD ARIEL BENITEZ
Former Bay Shore High School star joins Fighting Tomcats for the 2026 NPSL season
Long Island, NY (March 2nd, 2026) – American Soccer Club-New York has announced the signing of forward Ariel Benitez to a one-year contract for the 2026 National Premier Soccer League season. Benitez joins the Fighting Tomcats’ roster after participating with the team during the U.S. Open Cup this past fall.
“I’m extremely excited to sign with ASC New York,” said Benitez. “I truly enjoy the environment and being around the team and we are fortunate to have an outstanding coaching staff that consistently supports and challenges us as players. My expectation for this season is to compete for and win the NPSL title. I believe we have the talent, depth and mentality to accomplish that goal.”
The Bay Shore native played collegiately at The College of Saint Rose in Albany. He has also played for Long Island Premier in the UPSL as he continues to develop and compete at higher levels.
“Ariel joined us a temporary player during the (U.S.) Open Cup in the fall,” said ASC New York Head Coach John Fitzgerald. “I was impressed with his attitude and dedication. We invited him to tryouts for this season and he continued to impress. Ariel is a crafty and skillful player. He has quite an engine too and loves to fly up and down the line. He’s very determined and exhibits the right mindset for ASC New York.”
Benitez began his youth career at HBC Soccer Club in Huntington before joining the New York Cosmos Youth Development Academy and subsequently the Long Island Slammers. At Bay Shore High School, Benitez was a two-year Captain and earned team MVP honors to go along with being and All-County, All-Conference and All-League selection.
He’s looking forward to bringing his talents to the Fighting Tomcats.
“The culture at ASC New York is unlike any other I have been a part of,” said Benitez. “This is more than just a soccer team. We are building a community where everyone feels welcome and proud to be a part of ASC New York.”
American Soccer Club-New York will be making additional announcements in the upcoming weeks including player signings and schedule. The 2026 National Premier Soccer League season will begin in May. Mitchel Athletic Complex in Uniondale will be 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.
