Five players to know from NY/NJ’s 2025 class
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The New York/New Jersey 2025 class is loaded with talent including some who should be considered among the best players in the country. The depth of the group was on the showcase this summer as players starred in the various…
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Continue ReadingThe New York/New Jersey 2025 class is loaded with talent including some who should be considered among the best players in the country. The depth of the group was on the showcase this summer as players starred in the various events across the youth soccer landscape.
With the 2025 class in the spotlight for college coaches, PrepSoccer scouts did a deep-dive on some of the prospects to know from this region. Read a scouting report on five of the names to know from this group.
Scored a spectacular goal against IMG Academy in the MLS Next Showcase in Texas. DeRosa is a winger or attacking midfielder. He is good with either foot on the cross or shot so his appeal at the next level is the versatility to play in either role. The best part about DeRosa’s game is he doesn’t waste touches. If he sees that the cross is on, he hits it. There is no hesitation or no delay to get the ball to his favored foot. DeRosa’s played alongside some top 2024s this season and done well, which speaks highly to his ability to adjust his game for the next level. With a 3.8 GPA, DeRosa should have quite a few fans among coaches and scouts for the Division I level.
Highlights
Smith started every game of the MLS Next Showcase for the FC Westchester U17 side. He is a great player to scout because he is one of those goalkeepers who brings a bit of flair to the game. The best is the stare down after a big save. With the rare ability to leap incredibly distances in a split second, Smith has a highlight-reel of saves from the past year that any goalkeeper would be proud to put to take credit for. Smith is a dedicated student and has interests off the field in business as well. It is rare for a college to be active after a keeper early on in the recruiting process, but Smith’s stellar season and continuing development in the position makes him a name that colleges should keep track of for the next season.
Highlights
Yoshikawa was one of the standouts from TSF’s appearance at the MLS Next showcase in the U17 age group. He played as both a center midfielder and as a defender. He is a very technical player. With a great first touch, Yoshikawa is confident on the ball and plays with his head up. He makes quick decisions and is excellent in the transition phase of the game. The midfielder has been prolific scorer this season. He strikes the ball well from the run of play and also in dead ball situations. He is one of the top players in this class from free kicks. Yoshikawa should be considered as one of the top recruits in this class as he offers positional flexibility, quality on the ball, and a free kick specialist.
Max Cook Max Cook D Oratory Prep | 2025 NJ is a bit of an off-the-radar prospect, but he has all of the attributes that college coaches look for from potential recruits. He has the physical frame to handle the rigors of the college game. He is 6-3 and a good athlete. He can play as a midfielder or as a center back. He has starred at the club and high school level. He dominates play for his high school as he is the driving force for the side. A willing runner, Cook covers ground with ease. With nimble footwork, he dances around challenges and sometimes between the legs of opponents. He strikes the ball with power and excellent technique. Regularly burying free kicks into the net when given the opportunity. Cook is one to watch and one who could make a big impact at ID camps as he faces off against other top talent in the region.