Florida Atlantic University’s men’s soccer team welcomed three newcomers as part of the National Signing Day.

“We are pleased with our first three commitments and look forward to working with them and continuing to build a championship program,” said Kos Donev, head men’s soccer coach.

Christian Williams, hailing from Southampton, Pa., attended Springside Chestnut Hill Academy and helped lead his team to the 2014 state semifinals and 2013 state quarterfinals. In 2014, Williams was named First Team All-Inter-Ac, All-Inter-Ac Most Valuable Player and made the All-Southeastern PA team. Prior to high school, Williams played for FC Delco U12-U14 Philadelphia Soccer Club Coppa Arsenal where the team was 2014 Eastern PA State finalists.

“Christian will provide us a strong presence on the field both physically and technically,” said Donev. “He should easily be able to adapt to the college game due to his athletic abilities and work ethic.”

International student Phillip Hitpass, originally from Hamminkeln, Germany, joins the team as a transfer from Auburn University at Montgomery. His former team was the 2013 NAIA runner-up and he was named to the 2013 NAIA All-Tournament team for his performance. Hitpass also played U19 Bundesliga for MSV Duisburg.

“Phillip will provide us experience in goal due to spending two successful years in goal for a top NAIA school and from the level of play he has experienced in Germany,” said Donev.

Aaron Laranetto attended South Kent School in Connecticut and was named All-State his senior year. A Bridgewater, Conn. native, Laranetto was a two-time member of the All-New England team. His high school squad won the NEPSAC Class B New England Championship in 2013. He also was a member of the Blackrock FC U18, a finalist in the 2014 IMG Cup, and he trained overseas with C.F. Os Belenenses.

“Aaron will be a very good fit for our team’s style of play and will be coming in as one of our attacking midfields who has played at the very good club and high school level,” said Donev. “As a post-grad at South Kent School, it has prepared him to step into the college level and make an immediate contribution.”

The trio will join FAU in the fall, but men’s soccer will host six exhibition games at home this spring beginning with the first match on Friday, Feb. 6 at 6 p.m. against University of Victoria. All spring games will be held at the FAU Soccer Stadium and are free and open to the public. The regular season will commence in August. Make sure to stay up to date on all team news by following men's soccer on Twitter @faumenssoccer.

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