STANDOUT BRENTWOOD PAIR JOIN AMERICAN SOCCER CLUB NEW YORK

LONG ISLAND, N.Y. — The Brentwood soccer community will be well-represented during American Soccer Club New York’s inaugural season.

Midfielder Stalyn Acosta and goalkeeper Kenny Cordova are the latest signings for the first-year National Premier Soccer League club.

Acosta, a product of Brentwood SC in the Long Island Junior Soccer League, brings a story of perseverance and inspiration to ASC New York.

He joined the Brentwood High School varsity soccer team as a sophomore, but his season was abruptly cut short when he was diagnosed with bone cancer.

Nine months later, after having a rib on his left side removed, he battled the cancer into remission. And during his senior season with Brentwood, Acosta — the prep team’s captain — helped lead the squad to a 22-0 record and Class AAA state title. He was the lone United Soccer Coaches All-America selection from Suffolk County in 2023.

Acosta joined Cortland State as a freshman this academic year, and the success continued. He tallied a goal and four assists in 18 matches (15 starts) last fall en route to a SUNYAC championship. Acosta was named to the all-tournament team after scoring the opening goal in a 3-1 win against Buffalo State in the conference finals.

“Stalyn is a true Long Island product, having played his whole youth career for solid soccer hotbed, Brentwood SC,” ASC New York coach John Fitzgerald said. “There’s no doubt that his skill and grit were developed there. He’s able to keep possession under pressure, while also bringing mental and physical toughness. His personal story is a testament to this toughness. He’s one of several talented midfielders who offer us a variety of options.”

Cordova brings significant professional experience to ASC New York.

Another Brentwood High School alum, he has played in Peru’s first and second division as well as in Honduras. That included most recently earning a Peruvian Liga 2 championship with Club Deportivo Comerciantes Unidos in 2023.

He also has played with Club Deportivo Universidad César Vallejo (2018), Club Atlético Grau (2019) and C.D. Honduras Progreso (2022), while competing in Copa Bicentenario and Supercopa Peruana.

“Kenny has pro experience, and it’s apparent in his play and how he carries himself,” Fitzgerald said. “His shot-stopping ability is key, but just as important are his presence and demeanor. He’s played in big moments before joining ASC, and every player will tell you those moments bring about confidence, which you really want in your keeper.”

ASC New York will begin its inaugural season in the NPSL on Sunday, May 4, against Osner’s FC on Long Island. Stay tuned for the official kit release as well as upcoming announcements on the team’s home stadium, nickname and additional player signings.