Lehigh men's soccer head coach Dean Koski has announced the addition of nine incoming first-years that will join the program this summer. The class of 2028 features nine players from three countries and three states.
"We have spent the last year and a half evaluating hundreds of prospects at MLS Next and ECNL events throughout the country", Koski said. "As well, our ID clinics have afforded us additional opportunities to evaluate prospects on campus and get to interact with them more personally.
"These nine incoming student-athletes have distinguished themselves as ideal fits for our program and the university," Koski said. "They are driven in the classroom and on the field and represent the top 1% of all graduating high school players that we have evaluated. We are excited to welcome them to the program and watch them develop as athletes and young men."
Calan Armitage - Whitehouse Station, N.J. - PDA - Goalkeeper
Calan joins Lehigh from PDA MLS Next, having excelled during his junior and senior years. A former All-State goalkeeper and Group 4 Sectional Champion in high school, Calan is a 3-star rated prospect by Top Drawer Soccer. At Lehigh's ID camp, he impressed with his command of the box, confidence with his feet, decision-making skills, and technical proficiency. Known for his leadership and team-first mentality, we are excited to welcome Calan to our program.
Shea Coughlin - Franklin Lakes, N.J. - PDA - Midfielder
Shea has been a standout midfielder for PDA MLS Next and Delbarton School. His accolades include Regional All-American, 1st Team All-State, 1st Team All-County, and 1st Team All-Conference honors. A 3-star recruit by Top Drawer Soccer, Shea is recognized for his technical skills, high soccer IQ, and composure under pressure. He will add depth to our midfield, contributing both offensively and defensively. We eagerly anticipate his growth in our program.
Aiden Gonzalez - Wilmington, DE - Sporting AC - Midfielder
Aiden comes to Lehigh from Sporting AC and Salesianum School, where he was named 2023 Delaware Player of the Year, All-American, All-Region, and All-State. Competing in both ECNL and MLS Next leagues, Aiden has proven to be a dynamic attacking midfielder. His speed, work ethic, and technical ability make him a constant threat to create and score goals. Aiden will be a valuable addition to our squad.
Anton Kinnunen - Kemi, Finland - Cedar Stars Bergen - Goalkeeper
Anton, a Finnish national, has played with top academies in Finland, Russia, and the United States, and has received call-ups to the Finnish Youth national team. Currently with Cedar Stars Bergen, Anton's experience is evident in his confidence, presence, and composure. A strong shot-stopper with excellent communication skills, he will be a key addition to our goalkeeper roster.
Ryan Mundy - Schuylkill Haven, Pa.- LVU - Forward
Ryan, a local talent from Blue Mountain High School and Lehigh Valley United, has been recognized as a high school All-American, All-Region, and All-State player. A Top Drawer Soccer 3-star recruit, Ryan showcased his abilities in the High School All-American Game. Known for his speed, dynamic play, and reliable scoring, he will enhance our options at both wing and forward positions. We are thrilled to have him join us.
Kent Neureiter - Tokyo, Japan - IFA West - Midfielder
Kent, originally from Tokyo and recently a postgraduate at Wilbraham and Monson Academy, has been an All-Star in Japan and NEPSAC. At Lehigh's ID Clinic, he displayed technical proficiency and versatility, able to play as a defensive midfielder, two-way midfielder, or outside back. We are impressed by Kent's composure and excited to integrate him into our team.
Paul Smajlaj - Ridgefield Park, N.J. - Cedar Stars Bergen - Defender
Paul has competed with New York Red Bulls 2, New York Red Bulls MLS Next, and Cedar Stars Bergen. Selected for the MLS Next All-Star Match and the Capelli Cup in Denmark, Paul is a Top Drawer Soccer 3-star recruit and one of New Jersey's top-rated players. As a physical and dominant center back with a strong passing range, Paul will bring leadership, maturity, and stability to our defense.
Bora Turker - Robbinsville, N.J. - Matchfit - Forward
Bora has been a top scorer at the high school and club levels, earning United Soccer Coaches National All-American honors and being named Central NJ Player of the Year and ECNL All-Northeast team. A 3-star recruit by Top Drawer Soccer, Bora is versatile, capable of playing with his back to goal and stretching play. He will be an exciting addition to our attacking lineup.
Giacomo Zizza - Denville, N.J. - STA - Midfielder
Giacomo, a standout with STA, has been recognized as North 2 Sectional Player of the Year, All-Conference, All-County, All-State, Regional All-American, and ECNL All-Conference. A Top Drawer Soccer 3-star prospect, Giacomo is a dynamic midfielder known for his passing, tempo-setting, and goal-scoring abilities. His intensity and competitive spirit align with our program's principles, and we look forward to seeing him in a Lehigh uniform.
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