TDS’ debut Combine kicked off in Philadelphia last weekend, and featured over 175 players and 15 college coaches in attendance.  InfoSport and TopDrawerSoccer developed the Combine with the goal of getting more youth players in front of college coaches and scouts.

The best boys XI from the combine include representation from many of the region’s top players and clubs.

Kyler White – Philadelphia Union – Goalkeeper – Fresh off his club’s Generation Adidas title in August, White had an excellent showing.  Combine coach Zach Ssebatindira from Penn State Abington described White as being very comfortable with the ball at his feet, while being physically and technically solid as a Goalkeeper.

Jonas Melendez – PDA – Defender  - Melendez’s good decision-making and tackling proved to be a handful for opposing attackers throughout the combine.  His quick feet and soccer intelligence helped him stand out in the full field games.

Trey Thomas – HMMS Eagle Force – Defender – Thomas is a versatile player who can slot in at Center Back or Defensive Midfield.  Tim VanLiew of Rutgers Camden described Thomas as being a very strong and agile defender, with a knack for winning balls in the air.

Octavian Tita -Ukrainian Nationals – Defender – Tita impressed coaches and scouts based on his combination of strength and composure on the ball.  He made some impressive tackles and distributed the ball out of the back well.  Octavian’s also a good ball winner in the air.

Tommy Dorsay – PDA – Defender – Dorsay displayed his strong presence on the field and his ability to keep it simple and pick out teammates throughout the day, but particularly during the small-sided games.  Thomas projects as a left back at the next level.

Timothy Barger – Baltimore Bays – Midfielder – Lauded as one of the most complete players at the combine by college coaches in attendance, Barger’s technique and tactical awareness stood out immediately.  A leader in his team, he displayed excellent communication skills while organizing his teammates on the field.

Justin Yacovino – Soccer Domain FC 09 – Midfielder – Yacovino possess a wonderful first touch and a good soccer brain.  He impressed throughout the day because of his technical ability.

Christopher Juergensen – Hulmeville Soccer Club – Midfielder – A very creative and dangerous attacking player, Juergensen takes defenders on very aggressively.  A solid finisher in the box with his feet and head, Christopher’s ability to use his left as well as his right foot left a favorable impression.

Andrew Baltrus – FC Premier – Midfielder – Baltrus is the type of player coaches and scouts love.  He’s very advanced technically, and reads the game at an advanced level for his age.  The 2015 graduate impressed because of his ability to pick out teammates and keep the ball from all portions of the field.

Emmanuel Kanneh – DC United – Forward – The Ghanaian DC United product flashed his excellent first touch and soccer IQ.  Excellent reading and understand of the game, Kanneh is a natural fit as an attacking midfielder or as a supporting striker.

Kyle Woulfe – Quakertown United – Forward – Much like Filippo Inzaghi, Woulfe is a natural #9 Striker who has a nose for the goal.  Very deceptive on the ball, his skill and goal scoring ability made him stand out.

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