Under the guidance of fourth-year head coach Nick Hillary, the last two recruiting classes for the Clarkson University Men’s Soccer team have made an impressive impact, quickening the Golden Knights return to prominence in the Liberty League. The six incoming freshmen, the Class of 2016, hope to continue that growth as the Green and Gold look to climb to the top of the conference standings.

The Golden Knights will welcome six freshmen, which include two defenders, two midfielders, and two strikers.

Zach Peck (Liverpool, NY) and Jake Yost (Gloversville, NY) will add to an already improved defense. “Both Zach and Jake are very hard workers; Zach is solid and has good knowledge of the game to put him in good positions, while Jake sees the game well to make plays simple rather than difficult,” coach Hillary said.

In the midfield, Marco Parisi (Guilford, CT) and Paul Ansin (Nassau, NY) join a group that has developed over the last few years and should provide more depth and quality immediately. “Marco has outstanding field awareness and plays the game intelligently, while Paul also excels in seeing the field and has a very good touch. Both players are also very good passers and will be valuable in transition and in jump-starting our offense.”

Adding to the scoring punch at striker are Zack Godin (Philadelphia, NY) and Max Konnaris (Cornwall-on-Hudson, NY). “Zach is a very crafty player and uses his intelligence and vision to find the open man, and Max is a relentless competitor who uses his good first touch and top-notch speed to create many scoring chances.”