It’s a matter of taste.

Certain players catch your eye and garner your respect for different reasons. And in the matter of this series, we wanted to know which guys and girls the players themselves endorse. Some will lean toward players that fly below the radar; others will select those who have a skill set they admire.

But beyond statistics, honors or achievements, the following names represent a small percentage of competitors who have earned the respect of peers within their region.

In the case of New York, those selections greatly varied.
 

Gabe Stauber

Dylan Greenberg, Albertson SC: It’s not often that a player lists a defender as their favorite, so it’s apparent that Greenberg has solidified himself as a standout. His quick feet and movement off the ball were tabbed as noteworthy qualities.
Quote on Greenberg: He has a lot of heart and is dedicated to the game. He works hard.”
 
Aaron Dennis, Cosmos Academy East: Dennis is a player who also caught our eye at the recent Development Academy Showcase. He’s got great striker size and is smooth on the ball. He’s heading to Villanova next year.
Quote on Dennis: “He’s big, strong and can finish on demand. The kid is mad good.”

Gabe Stauber, FC Westchester: Heading to Dartmouth next season, Stauber combines brains and brawn. He’s been a team captain and champion.
Quote on Stauber: “He’s one of the most talented and hard working players I’ve played.”

Jean Gagne

Jean Gagne, Cosmos Academy East: Lo and behold, another defender! Gagne is a tough center back who makes it difficult on attackers and has gained respect for it.
Quote on Gagne: “Anytime he’s on the field I find it hard to get behind the defense. On the field we’re like enemies.”

Brian Span, Virginia (FC Westchester): So he’s a college player – so what! His time training and playing with FC Westchester is what got him named to the list. He’s a polished attacker who can run at defenders with both feet. But it’s his work ethic that has left a serious impression on his younger teammates.
Quote on Span: “There is not a day that goes by that I know (Brian) isn’t out training. Whether it’s shooting, crossing or watching tape.”

Donovan Fraser, Albertson SC: This 16-year-old attacker may have a big future in front of him. He has a nose for the ball and the goal and is difficult to body.
Quote on Fraser: “He’s one of the rising stars in New York soccer.”

And on to the girls …

Jillian Mulholland

Jillian Mulholland, Albertson SC: Invited to US Club Soccer id2 National Training Camps, she’s an aggressive attacker who can also distribute. Opposing teams are keenly aware of the threat she poses.
Quote on Mulholland: “She’s quick and can really take on players. She also moves well off the ball.”

Shea Bullen, Massapequa SC: Can play both ways. Her speed and strength allow her to keep players in front of her though she also is dangerous as a 1v1 threat.
Quote on Bullen: “I recently went with her to the Interregional event down in Florida and she amazed me.”