Binghamton University Athletics

A native of Poughkeepsie, N.Y., Andy Szalaji played soccer at Binghamton in 1986 and 1987 after transferring from UNC Charlotte. He earned his bachelor’s degree in liberal studies in 1989.

Szalaji led the 1986 and ‘87 soccer teams to a combined 27-8-2 mark (76%) and a pair of postseason appearances. He scored 21 goals in two seasons, including numerous game-winners, and his scoring output per game ranks among the highest in program history.

In 1986, Szalaji earned first team all-conference and all-state recognition after leading Binghamton to a 13-6 mark and ECAC tournament berth. He tallied a team-high 10 goals and the Colonials were ranked as high as No. 6 in the region.

As a senior captain in 1987, Szalaji spearheaded a record-breaking 14-2-2 season. He registered 11 goals and four assists, was a repeat first team all-conference and all-state selection and was named conference player of the year. He then was honored as a first team All-American — signifying Szalaji as one of the top three forwards in the entire nation.

That 1987 team was undefeated on the road and ranked No. 1 in New York state and No. 4 in the nation. The Colonials established program records for fewest losses and highest win percentage — marks that still hold current — and advanced to the NCAA tournament.

In 1987, Szalaji also was selected to participate in the professional invitation camp for Cleveland of the Major Indoor Soccer League.

He was chosen as the University’s “Athlete of the Year” for 1987-88.