Benjamin Burdon could have committed to a bigger-named program, but he opted instead for one on the rise.

The Charlotte Soccer Academy striker will attend High Point beginning with the 2012 season, adding another talented player to what is becoming a sneaky class for the Panthers.

Burdon, the No. 61 ranked player in the 2012 class Top 100, will join fellow Charlotte Academy stud Austin Yearwood, who is No. 84 on the same list.

Burdon is very aware that he will be helping to build a program rather than simply falling in line with its legacy.

“Even though I had interest and offers from a lot of big schools, I think (High Point) is really on the rise and I wanted to be a part of it,” Burdon said. “High Point was the best place for my soccer and academics. I also really like the players and coaches and feel like I will fit right into the team’s personality and playing style.”

Burdon’s playing style is one of a smart running striker who works hard off the ball and shows dangerous qualities in the scoring area. He dominated his U.S. Development Academy competition last year by netting 22 goals in 28 games and is sure to be a threat at the next level.

On the West Coast, LA Galaxy standout goalkeeper Josh McNeely has verbally committed to UC Santa Barbara for the 2013 season.

McNeely is the No. 19 ranked player in the 2013 Top 100 class, and a stud who helped lead his club to the U16 Development Academy national title last season.

At 6-foot-1, his mobile and athletic and a proven shot stopper.

In other commitment news:  

Connor Mulhern (Chicago Magic) has verbally committed to Holy Cross for the 2012 season.

Max Brashear (IMG Academy) has verbally committed to Cornell for the 2012 season.

Nino Stewart (Weston FC) has verbally committed to UCF for the 2012 season.

Mason Miller (Solar SC) has verbally committed to UCF for the 2012 season. Miller is ranked No.19 in the Texas Region.

Zach Mason (Columbus Crew) has verbally committed to Ohio State for the 2012 season.

Christopher Hill (NJSA 04) has verbally committed to Richmond for the 2012 season.

Bay Daniel (Atlanta Fire United) has verbally committed to South Carolina for the 2012 season.

Chad Craig (Penn Fusion) has verbally committed to Elon for the 2012 season. Craig is ranked No. 9 in the Pennsylvania Region.

Logan Berlet (Ohio Premier) has verbally committed to College of Charleston for the 2012 season.

Derek Szanto (West Coast FC) has verbally committed to UC Irvine for the 2012 season.

Logan McHugh (Baltimore Bays) has verbally committed to Denver for the 2012 season.