The Long Island Rough Riders have added three more important pieces ahead of the upcoming USL League Two season, welcoming Francisco Tolaba, Isaiah Chisolm, and Josh Gordon to the squad.
The trio brings a strong blend of midfield intensity, attacking experience, and defensive quality as Long Island continues to strengthen its roster with players from top college programs and elite development backgrounds.
Francisco Tolaba joins the Rough Riders as an Argentinian warrior in midfield following an impressive sophomore season at LIU. Tolaba started 14 matches during the fall and logged more than 1,200 minutes, showing consistency, work rate, and toughness in the center of the park. His ability to compete, cover ground, and bring energy to the midfield should make him an exciting addition to the Rough Riders setup.
Up front, Isaiah Chisolm arrives with proven experience and attacking quality. A striker with extensive USL League Two experience, Chisolm is coming off an All-Conference fall season at the University of Kentucky, a campaign that helped earn him a transfer to The Ohio State University. His experience at a high level, combined with his eye for goal and forward presence, gives the Rough Riders another dangerous option in the final third.
Strengthening the back line is Josh Gordon, a former Toronto FC Academy player who now competes for NC State, fresh off a run to the College Cup Final. Gordon brings strong defensive instincts, composure, and experience from high-level environments, adding another important layer of quality to the Rough Riders defense.
Together, Tolaba, Chisolm, and Gordon represent another strong group of additions for Long Island as the club continues to prepare for the season ahead. With quality in midfield, attack, and defense, the Rough Riders are adding the kind of balance and experience needed to compete at a high level.
The Rough Riders’ 2026 season will begin in May, as the club looks to build on last year’s playoff run with Elijah returning to strengthen the squad’s forward line. The team will be hosting Staten Island ASC in its home opener at Mitchel Athletic Complex on May 27 at 7 p.m. Buy Tickets.
*Pending League and Federation Approval