Pre-ECNL Midwest Cup: U12 Game Changers Hit the Field

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The 2026–27 Pre-ECNL season rolls on with the Midwest Cup, taking place September 26-27 in Lebanon, OH. Ninety-six teams from the U10-U12 age groups are set to compete in this two-day event, the first big cup of the year for up-and-coming talent in the region. As the tournament gets underway, here are five young players who have the tools to break open games and could leave their mark at the Midwest Cup.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["411946"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6ab8299c1ff23"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Jasinski shows impressive control on the ball, consistently finding ways to disguise her movements along the back line. In addition, her ability to keep possession and maneuver through traffic stands out, as she regularly finds passing lanes to connect with teammates. Furthermore, Jasinski's impact goes beyond defense. She's a player worth having on the pitch on both sides of the ball. Her understanding of the game and positional awareness at her age is remarkable. As she heads to the Midwest Cup this weekend, Jasinski is certainly a name to track.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["411975"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6ab8299c1ffcb"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Rossiaky is showing off excellent ball control and a knack for connecting with her teammates in the buildup. She's got vision on the field, always scanning and positioning herself as a key piece in the Premier attack. On top of that, she can find the back of the net and consistently capitalizes in 1v1 situations. As she heads to the Midwest Cup this weekend, Rossiaky is definitely a player to keep an eye on. Her sharp awareness and finishing ability could make a real impact this weekend.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["411976"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6ab8299c2004c"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Egan consistently demonstrates excellent ball control, with a first touch that sets her up to move forward on the field. Moreover, she takes her touch into space and maintains possession on the dribble as she drives toward goal. Her ability to make a directional touch, avoid traffic, and finish plays sets her apart in the attack. Additionally, Egan's knack for finding the net makes her a constant threat. As Burn take on the Midwest Cup, she will be one to watch in the forward line.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["411981"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6ab8299c200c7"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Thomas is a player who can consistently find the back of the net. She is quick on her feet and changes direction with ease, using sharp footwork to create opportunities to shoot from distance. Moreover, her ability to generate power on her shots stands out for her. Further, making her a real threat from outside the box. In addition, Thomas's composure in front of goal highlights her attacking instincts and makes her a forward to track as the competition unfolds.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["411985"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6ab8299c20141"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Castelan displays impressive defensive traits, consistently showcasing jockeying, shielding, and smart decision-making along the back line. Additionally, she is always looking over her shoulder, staying aware of both the player and the ball. Her defensive IQ at such a young age truly stands out, as she makes it difficult for opponents to get past her or threaten the Eclipse SC goal.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block -->