Boys Commitments: Staying in state

by Travis Clark

March 11, 2015

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Jamil Gracia, Defender, Triangle FC Alliance
Class: 2016
Commitment: UNC Wilmington

A standout on both his club and high school soccer team, Jamil Gracia didn’t have to look outside his home state of North Carolina to find his college destination.

Jamil Gracia

“I went on other college visits but none of them appealed to me the way UNCW
did,” Gracia told TopDrawerSoccer.com. “I chose Wilmington because I had attended a summer and winter id camps and came away with a great feeling about the school both times. As soon as I finished up with my visit I just instantly knew that I wanted to be a part of that program.”

The campus and environment around the campus also impressed Gracia on the visit. Then, there was the soccer program, which is fresh off a successful 2014 season that saw them post a 13-5-2 record and beat in-state rivals like Duke and North Carolina.

“The coaching staff at Wilmington was a really big factor in my decision to commit,” he said. “They did a great job of making me feel wanted and I think that they are the ideal people to help in my development as player and a person. Seeing how the coaching staff interacts with every player and being able to see and hear about how close the team was also aided in my decision. It's easy to see myself spending four years at such a great university in every aspect.”

Versatility is one of Gracia’s strengths, as he can slot in anywhere on the back line and play some defensive midfield as well. He led his high school team in goals and was the team captain as a junior.

“I am thankful and excited for the opportunity that I've been given and I'm eager to join the Seahawk family,” he said.

Gracia is the third commitment to join UNC Wilmington for 2016.

Nathan Zanzig, Midfielder, Premier FC
Class: 2015
Commitment: Ohio State

A two-way midfielder who looks to open up the game with his distribution and passing, Nathan Zanzig is a recent addition to Ohio State’s 2015 recruiting class.

“Ohio State was the best decision for me after academics, soccer, and social life were all taken into consideration,” he told TopDrawerSoccer.com.

His college options included programs across the country. But the Buckeyes eventually separated themselves from the rest of the group.

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“With the good season they had this past year, quality recruits coming in, the possession driven philosophy of the coaching staff, and the family atmosphere within the program I am excited to see what the future will bring,”

The school’s setting was another factor.

“Ohio State is so large that it could be considered a city itself, but is also surrounded by Columbus, which is a medium sized city,” Zanzig said. “Additionally, I have decided to major in business, but nearly every major is offered on campus in case I change my mind."

Four players are committed to join Ohio State this fall.

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Related Topics: Commitments