As Harry Cooksley dribbled the ball up the field, his six-foot- three frame zigzagging its way past
Fordham defenders and into enemy territory on the first night of September, a new era of St.
John’s athletics flashed right before the eyes of hundreds of antsy spectators.
The fans in attendance at the men’s soccer home opener were eager, slowly rising from their
seats as Cooksley’s foot directed the ball towards the Rams’ goalkeeper. Parents, students and
supporters under Belson Stadium’s Friday night lights all let out a collective breath as
Cooksley’s shot just barely grazed the top of the crossbar.