Hempstead, NY- Hofstra senior pitcher Ryan Radke will make his first start of the season on Thursday when the Pride host New York Tech in the home opener. Game time at University Field is set for 3 p.m.

Radke (Frankfort, IL) will be making his first start 2008 as Hofstra (0-9) and New York Tech (0-3) will be aiming for its first victory of the season. The Pride carries a long history against the Bears, going 15-20-1 in the all-time series. Though it does not officially count in the records, Hofstra defeated New York Tech in October to win the 2009 Town of Oyster Bay Supervisor's Cup.

Hofstra's slate of games was canceled due to rain last weekend, washing out contests against Temple, Villanova and St. Joseph's. The Pride last played on March 7 when it carried an eighth-inning lead against Atlantic Coast Conference-member Maryland.

The Pride have been successful in recent home openers, going 8-3 since 1999. Hofstra posted its best offensive performance of the 2009 season in the first home game, racking up 20 runs in a win over the Red Storm.

After facing New York Tech in the first of three scheduled games this year, the Pride will welcome in Fairfield for a pair of weekend doubleheaders. Game time for the opening contest on Saturday and Sunday is noon.